Thomas is in his third NFL season. He entered the league as the No. 23 overall pick in 2024 out of LSU. The Louisiana native finished his rookie campaign with 87 receptions for 1,282 yards and 10 touchdowns, earning Pro Bowl honors. He saw action in 14 games last year and experienced a slight dip in his numbers. Thomas recorded 48 receptions for 707 yards and two touchdowns, including one in the Wild Card Round loss to the Buffalo Bills.

Meanwhile, Kansas City has lost back-to-back games after starting the season 5-0. They are coming off a 28-24 defeat to the Denver Broncos in Week 9 despite Mahomes’ strong performance. He completed 30-of-41 passes for 321 yards, three touchdowns and zero interceptions.

Patrick Mahomes And the Chiefs Could Trade For Brian Thomas Jr.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter and Ian Rapoport reported on Saturday that the  Chiefs are “intrigued” by Thomas. Several analysts consider the wide receiver position as the team’s “weak spot” despite having a high-octane offense led by Patrick Mahomes.

“Thomas played only 19 snaps during Thursday night’s victory in Baltimore and did not catch a pass. The Kansas City Chiefs have continued to be intrigued by Thomas,” Schefter and Rapoport wrote.

The team has Xavier Worthy as its WR1. However, they don’t have depth behind him and also signed Jacob De Jesus to the practice squad recently. He’ll likely serve as an insurance if the Chiefs fail to add another wideout. Thomas fits their need as he is young and has shown glimpses of his true potential. But the front office still a lot of maneuvering and calls to make before potentially landing him.

Related reading:

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The post Patrick Mahomes Could Get New WR Ahead of NFL Trade Deadline appeared first on Gridiron Heroics.

'A lot of coaches are afraid': Ryan ten Doeschate opens up on 'calling out' Virat Kohli during India star's struggles in Australia originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Former India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate says he intervened with Virat Kohli during the fourth Test of the 2024-25 series in Australia.
• He waited for a rain break to raise it and spent time working out how to deliver it.
• Kohli was caught behind or in the slips in eight of his nine dismissals on that tour.

Ryan ten Doeschate reveals the courage it took to confront Virat Kohli

For someone of his calibre, Virat Kohli's last few years in Test cricket were very different from his peak. His struggles on the fifth-stump line, his regression against spin and his inability to hit boundaries continued to trouble him throughout the New Zealand and Australia tours.

His problem in Australia in 2024-25 was especially visible to everyone watching, which is precisely what made it difficult for those paid to fix it. Ryan ten Doeschate, India's assistant coach on that tour, has described how long he sat on it before saying anything.

"I actually was just telling a really great story about Virat and his troubles he had in Australia with driving the ball and nicking off," Ten Doeschate said in a recent interview on talkSPORT. "Eventually in the fourth Test I went to intervene and chat to him, and he was brilliant about it, and he actually wanted someone to chat to him."

The hesitation was not about whether Kohli needed telling. It was about what approaching a player of that standing does to the coach who tries it.

"My sense is for a coach to go to a player like Virat Kohli and intervene and almost call them out on what's happening can be dangerous for you as a coach, and I think getting the wording right around that and how you deliver it is so important."

What he settled on was a moment rather than a speech. "It had been bubbling away, and it was more a case of me building up the courage and delivering it in the right way. The time just felt right, so I thought about it a lot, and I thought about how I could deliver it."

He was clear about what he would not say. "I'm not going to go to him and say, 'Mate, your cover drives are all over the show.' But then I worked out a time; it was during a rain break where I could deliver it in quite a non-confrontational way.

"And credit to him for the way he took it on, and it ended up being a really great discussion."

MORE:IPL 2027 trade tracker: Complete list of all player and cash deals before the IPL 2027 mini-auction

Ten Doeschate reveals: Why coaches may be reluctant to confront star cricketers

Ten Doeschate broadened the point beyond Kohli, arguing that the shift in power towards players has made coaches reluctant to raise anything uncomfortable.

"I think a lot of coaches are afraid to make interventions because it can be seen that you are being, you know, trying to justify your job, or you're interfering or just saying things for the sake of saying it," he said.

He acknowledged the risk runs both ways, since a badly judged intervention can leave a batter worse off than silence would.

"You've got to strike the balance of making an intervention that's going to help the player or confusing them."

"I never want to be a coach who's scared of an opinion of someone else for stepping in, for saying the right thing," he said, before adding that the modern game pushes the other way.

"The way the power shift has moved towards the players in the modern era, it does mean that a lot of coaches are scared to bring up topics or at least get talking about it."

MORE:Major ball-tampering incidents in cricket history listed: Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid to 'Sandpaper Gate' 

What Kohli's 2024-25 BGT tour of Australia actually looked like

The pattern ten Doeschate describes as bubbling away was among the most documented technical problems of recent Test cricket. Kohli made 190 runs in nine innings at 23.75, with an unbeaten 100 in the second innings at Perth and nothing above 36 after it.

Eight of his nine dismissals came the same way: caught behind or in the cordon, driving at deliveries on the fifth or sixth stump.

Sunil Gavaskar called it a technical fault rather than a temperament one, pointing to how front-footed Kohli had become, while Irfan Pathan framed it as a failure of discipline against a plan every bowler in the world knew about.

Melbourne, where the intervention happened, contained both versions of the problem. Kohli made 36 from 88 balls in the first innings, leaving well for long stretches, and added 102 with Yashasvi Jaiswal before nicking Scott Boland to Alex Carey shortly after Jaiswal was run out.

In the second innings, he lasted 29 balls for five, flashing at Mitchell Starc to Usman Khawaja at first slip with India 33 for 3, and they lost by 184 runs.

The conversation did not change the outcome. Kohli made 17 and 6 at Sydney in the final Test, with India losing the series 3-1, and he retired from Test cricket four months later.

aFor all the latest cricket news, opinion, and commentary, and to share your voice, head to our Facebook, Instagram, and X (Twitter) pages.

When the lineups were released for Chelsea vs Sunderland it was immediately noticeable that the Blues had made some unexpected moves. The no-striker formation was used again with a midfield three of Moises Caicedo, Romeo Lavia, and Jordan Henderson backing up three attackers/wingers. In addition, the back line looked brand new and a little bare with Josh Acheampong not involved in the squad at all. The Cobham graduate has been a regular in this campaign so his total absence was clear to any fan.

Read More: Chelsea vs Sunderland Confirmed Lineups

Josh Acheampong Status Confirmed Following Chelsea vs Sunderland Absence

Latest Report

Nizaar Kinsella has provided the latest update on the young defender. It is described as a small issue that likely won’t impact future matches. This comes as good news as the homegrown defender has been used as a versatile right-sided defender who can shift between a back three and back four as needed. His absence along with the injury to Reece James leaves the side without a proven versatile player for that side of the back line.

All in all, it could have been far worse. The manager will be happy to have Acheampong back for the match with Leeds in a few weeks time.

The Last Word

With the back line already hurting, this is another problem for Xabi Alonso to handle that will give him headaches. He was already without captain James and experienced, expensive centre back Maxence Lacroix. Losing Acheampong adds to the headache as he was a versatile piece who can alternate from right centre-back to right back depending on game state and tactical setup.

With the injury to Joao Pedro and the absence of Emi Martinez already impacting the team in goal and up front, the crisis in the back line is a tenuous balancing act that could cause a poor run of form if more dominoes continue to fall. Luckily, this one seems to be a short term issue that won’t see the English youth miss many matches.

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IMAGO / Pro Sports Images

However, following the official's signal, the Hounds jumped for joy, embraced one another and then collectively fell to their knees as their teammates rushed off the bench to form a "Hound-pile" of sorts.

With a 25-12, 25-13, 25-11 sweep of East Valley of Yakima in a Washington Class 2A volleyball crossover encounter, it was official.

Pullman had punched its ticket back to the state tournament, qualifying for the fifth straight year and 10th time in the last 11 full seasons.

"It means so much," said senior libero Lexi Doumit, who paced Pullman with 13 digs and delivered three service aces. "I mean, our team this year is just so incredible. We have bonds like no other, and I love these girls so much, and I'm just so grateful that they're who I got to do it with."

Doumit's fellow senior, Camber Wolfe, made 34 assists and the Hounds' freshman phenom, Emaline Gautreaux, racked up 19 kills.

Junior middle blockers Ella McNannay and Shayna Singh each totaled three blocks.

'The best senior class'

The Hounds have reached new heights in 2026.

Sweeps in 17 of 20 victories, eight straight sweeps and an unblemished record in best-of-five matches have shaped Pullman's 20-2 volleyball season.

The only two losses came in best-of-three tournament play on Sept. 12 to Lakeland of Rathdrum and Lake City of Coeur d'Alene.

The secret to all of that success?

"This is probably the best group of seniors I've had," seventh-year Pullman coach Megan McNannay said. "They've changed everything about the team culture here. They've made it so welcoming and inviting. I don't think girls are afraid to make mistakes anymore because there's no one rolling their eyes or getting mad at them. It's just 'Hey, next ball, next ball.'"

Senior hitter Kitty Keane, McNannay said, "made it her mission" to create a particularly supportive team environment.

Keane, who tallied two straight kills to set up Pullman's third-and-final match point, said that she has grown as a leader this season, encouraging her teammates mid-match and throughout practice.

"We just have so much love for everyone on the team," Keane said of her senior class. "Being so old and mature now, we really can pass on that love to younger people and teach them how to be such encouraging teammates to each other, and just focus on building team love all the time. It's been huge."

Megan McNannay said that this senior class's unique leadership style has prompted her to coach this year's group differently, knowing that the team is mature enough to respond to positive reinforcement.

Watch the Hounds play, and the results speak for themselves.

"They're the most kind, positive coaches I've ever had, and they truly just want us to be better all the time," Keane said of McNannay and her assistant coaches. "And they're so inspiring and so it's a mix of kindness and playfulness, but also being serious and working hard and knowing exactly what we can improve on and areas we can get better. They are such incredible coaches and I'm really grateful for them."

Digs and swings

The Hounds opened with authority courtesy of three kills from Gautreaux and two straight aces from Doumit to take a 7-3 lead in Set 1 and usher in East Valley's first timeout.

The second stanza featured similar moxie, including three kills from Gautreaux to put Pullman up 7-0 before East Valley once again called a timeout.

Throughout the match, Doumit and the Hounds kept giving themselves second chances.

To wrap the second set, Doumit scraped for the ball, falling to her back to keep the orb in the air.

The two teams traded receives before Wolfe served it up on a platter to Keane, who blasted it to the opposite hardwood to end the set and put Pullman up 2-0.

"I remember just admiring Lexi's digs," Gautreaux said. "They're so amazing."

Gautreaux said that the Hounds are one of the best volleyball teams she has been a part of.

The 14-year-old freshman has played a big role in getting the Hounds to where they are. Her fellow Pullman students certainly think so, too, breaking out into chants of "M-V-P, M-V-P, M-V-P" multiple times throughout the afternoon.

"Oh, I'm so proud of her, and I'm so happy for her," Doumit said of Gautreaux. "She's done so well, and just coming in as a freshman with those abilities is so impressive. But just seeing the smile on her face and how happy she is on the court just makes me so excited for her."

What's the secret to posting almost 20 kills in one afternoon?

"I like to swing when I can," Gautreaux said with a smile.

That's not to say she can't mix up her shots, McNannay said. Against the tougher competition that Pullman will face next weekend, Gautreaux may match up with the best.

On to State

State begins Friday for Washington's 1A and 2A classifications at the Yakima Valley SunDome.

McNannay said she hopes Pullman's body of work is enough for a higher seed.

This year, Pullman has swept West Valley of Spokane Valley, avenging last year's district tournament championship, and survived a five-set thriller versus Selah, which is also state-bound after beating, coincidentally, West Valley on Saturday.

Doumit said Pullman's players are focused on staying together going into the high-pressure state environment.

"Just relying on our confidence and our love for each other," Doumit said. "If we're gonna do it, we're gonna do it together and we're gonna support each other; we got it if we believe in it enough."

Taylor can be reached at 208-848-2260, staylor@lmtribune.com, or on X or Instagram @Sam_C_Taylor.

Lamar Jackson ‘s absence has left Baltimore searching for answers at quarterback. The team now faces a lengthy wait before it can realistically expect its two-time MVP to return.

MORE: Ravens name undrafted rookie Joe Fagnano starter as Tyler Huntley’s season ends

Lamar Jackson faces 6-to-9-week recovery timeline

Jackson is expected to miss six to nine weeks after fracturing and dislocating his right thumb.

The injury occurred during Baltimore’s 36-10 loss to the Buffalo Bills on Nov. 1. Jackson suffered the damage on his first offensive snap when his throwing hand collided with a defender during a pass attempt.

Lamar Jackson is out 6-9 weeks with a fractured and dislocated thumb. But the former MVP has vowed to return — assuming Baltimore stays alive. The Jacoby Brissett trade should help. https://t.co/nIDNNxZb7x

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 8, 2026

The quarterback immediately left the game and later required surgery. The Ravens subsequently placed him on injured reserve, guaranteeing he would miss at least four games.

Jackson had only just returned from a left ankle injury that kept him out of three games. His latest setback means the Ravens must once again adjust their plans around his absence.

Lamar Jackson tells Ravens teammates he plans to return

Despite the lengthy recovery timeline, Jackson has not given up on playing again this season.

Jackson has told his teammates that he intends to return later this season. His message to the locker room was simple “Just stay alive”(h/t NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport).

The team acquired Jacoby Brissett from the Arizona Cardinals to strengthen its quarterback options during Jackson’s absence. Brissett’s experience could help Baltimore remain competitive while its starter recovers.

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Real Madrid are inching closer to completing a deal to sign one of the most exciting young talents in European football.

Manchester United sensation JJ Gabriel is on the verge of joining Los Blancos, with the deal in its final stages.

Now, according to Jorge C. Picon, the 16-year-old’s entourage expects his move to Los Blancos to be finalised next week or the week after.

Gabriel has been looking for a new club for some time, and it looks like Madrid have won the race for his signature.

Manchester United’s efforts prove unsuccessful

United are said to have held several meetings with Gabriel and his representatives in an attempt to convince him to stay at the club.

Both club executives and Michael Carrick have tried their best to persuade the teenager, but to no avail.

The teenager is said to be determined to join Real Madrid and fulfil his long-term dream.

JJ Gabriel is on his way to Real Madrid. (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)

Gabriel requested to leave United in September and has since been training independently in Spain while discussions over his future continue.

Interestingly, one factor favouring Madrid is the possibility of offering Gabriel his first professional contract immediately.

Under English regulations, the youngster would have to wait until October 2027, when he turns 17, to sign professional terms with United.

Madrid, meanwhile, can offer such an agreement at 16 under Spanish regulations, subject to the necessary international transfer approvals.

Real Madrid closing in on another promising talent

Los Blancos have already secured a verbal agreement with the teenager, having beaten Barcelona, PSG and Bayern Munich to his signature.

Widely regarded as the biggest English talent around, Gabriel’s reputation has continued to skyrocket in recent months.

Los Blancos are closing in on another super talent. (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)

He has put in some incredible performances for Man United’s academy, including a hat-trick against Sabah in the UEFA Youth League earlier this season.

However, the transfer is far from straightforward for Real Madrid as they look to iron out the details with Man United.

Signing him ahead of the competition would be a coup for the Spanish club, who would have secured yet another promising talent for the future.

If Gabriel can continue to develop along similar lines, it won’t be long before he is knocking on the first-team door in the Spanish capital, and it remains to be seen how his career pans out.

Arthur Dias and Marisa Santiago at the hotel where the Brazilian national team is staying in SingaporeCredits: Rafael Ribeiro/CBF

Brazil's national team players began arriving in Singapore this Sunday (8) for the final FIFA international window of 2026. The first players to join the delegation in the Asian country were André Luiz, Arthur Dias, Jonathan Jesus, Gabriel Bontempo and Pedro Morisco.

Bruno Guimarães, Bento and Gabriel Magalhães arrived later. The full squad will be together by Tuesday (10).

Brazil's first training session will take place this Monday (9), at 5 a.m. Brasília time (4 p.m. local time). All sessions will be held at Japan Besar Stadium.

As in recent call-ups, goalkeeper Phillipe Gabriel, from Vasco's Under-20 team, will join the goalkeeping training sessions during this FIFA international window.

Brazil will face Japan on November 14 at 7:15 a.m. Brasília time, and Singapore on November 17 at 7 a.m. Brasília time.

Jonathan Jesus and Phillipe Gabriel greet each other at the hotel where the Brazilian national team is staying in Singapore Credits: Rafael Ribeiro/CBF

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

Abu Dhabi Championship final-round leaderboard

-23 J Rahm (Spa); -21 T Hatton (Eng); -19 R McIlroy (NI); -17 F Laporta (Ita); -16 B Wiesberger (Aut), A Ayora (Spa); -15 J Schaper (SA), D Puig (Spa)

Selected others:-14 N Kimsey (Eng), M Jordan (Eng); -13 S Bairstow (Eng), T Fleetwood (Eng), A Sullivan (Eng); -12 E Ferguson (Sco); -11 E Chacarra (Spa); -10 A Rai (Eng); -9 M Wallace (Eng); -4 P Reed (US)

Full leaderboard

Jon Rahm fired a final-round 67 to clinch a two-shot victory ahead of Tyrrell Hatton at the Abu Dhabi Championship.

It was a first victory for two-time major winner Rahm, 31, since he announced his departure from LIV Golf, and a first win at a DP World Tour event since for four years.

The Spaniard, in his first tournament since the birth of his fourth child last month, produced six birdies with just one dropped shot on Sunday to finish two strokes ahead of Englishman Hatton with Northern Ireland's McIlroy another two further back.

"It means a lot. It's been quite a while to play well in the DP World Tour," Rahm told Sky Sports.

"Except a shot on 17, as far as I'm concerned, I played a pretty flawless back nine. It was really solid, never in danger of making a bogey except that one hole.

"After everything that has gone on, some poor play and some battles mentally with a lot of noise, to come back out after a bit of a break and a new addition to the family, it's pretty special."

For McIlroy, his third-place finish was enough to ensure he goes into next week's season-finale at the DP World Tour Championship sitting second in the Race To Dubai standings as he seeks a record-equalling eighth win.

The 37-year-old, who was given a two-shot penalty in his first round, leapfrogged American Patrick Reed and now trails only Spain's Eugenio Chacarra in his bid to match Colin Montgomerie's eight season-long titles.

Despite starting the week outside the top-50, Rahm's victory ensures he remains in the hunt too should he be able to go back-to-back in Dubai.

• Rahm was not 'willing to follow' LIV 2.0 path
• Rahm sacrifices £75m to secure exit from LIV Golf

Rahm holds nerve as challengers falter

Rahm had taken an overnight lead of a single stroke into Sunday after a third-round 66.

His Ryder Cup team-mates Hatton and McIlroy, as well as Italian Francesco Laporta, all managed to carry the chase into the back nine on Sunday.

Laporta, seeking a maiden DP World Tour win, produced three birdies on the front nine to make the turn in a tie with playing partner Rahm, while one group further ahead McIlroy picked up a pair of shots on the 11th and 12th to join them on 20 under.

Across the closing stretch, however, Rahm's challengers fell away.

After Rahm matched McIlroy's birdie at the par-five 12th, the six-time major winner missed a birdie putt on the 13th before dropping on the 15th thanks to a wayward approach.

He would finish with a three-under 69 on the day to secure his 11th top-three finish at a tournament he remains still to win.

Meanwhile, having left the 11th green four under for his day, Laporta dropped four shots in two holes to tumble out of contention.

The 36-year-old, who led after the second round, ultimately finished in fourth, six shots off the pace.

Hatton, whose final-round 68 included four birdies and 14 pars, briefly closed the gap to a single shot on the 15th, but Rahm matched the Englishman's birdie moments later with a three-foot putt following a brilliant six iron on to the green.

While there was a further chance to increase the pressure on the leader heading to the final hole, Hatton's 24-foot birdie putt came up inches short on the 17th before Rahm's par putt dropped from under five feet.

Race To Dubai leader Chacarra finished on 11 under in a three-way tie for 22nd.

The FA Cup is in full swing for the 2026-27 season with 40 first round fixtures to be played over the weekend before the draw for the second round takes place on Monday 9 November.

There were 32 non-league sides left in the competition at the start of the weekend, seeking to stake a claim for a spot in the next round as they come up against the teams from League’s One and Two.

Friday night’s matches saw 2021 champions, and former Premier League winners, Leicester City avoid a potential banana skin at sixth-tier Oxford City while Bristol Rovers overcame Cambridge United.

Saturday saw a few non-league teams get the better of EFL foes as Kidderminster thrashed Doncaster 3-0, Carlisle battled past Salford City 1-0 and Barrow won 1-0 on their long trip to Gillingham, while seventh-tier Guiseley also upset National League Sutton United 1-0. However, League One promotion-chasers Bradford City routed Marine FC 7-0.

Plymouth Parkway and Berkhamsted conclude the first round fixtures on Monday evening and will contest a spot in the next round following the second round draw on TNT Sports.

Here’s everything you need to know about the second-round draw.

When is the FA Cup second-round draw?

The draw for the second round of the 2026-27 FA Cup takes place on Monday 9 November, before the clash between non-league clubs Plymouth Parkway and Berkhamsted.

The television coverage of the game starts at 6:30pm GMT, with the draw itself expected to begin shortly afterwards.

Where to watch FA Cup second-round draw

The draw will be available to watch live in the UK on TNT Sports 1, HBO Max, and on the TNT Sports YouTube channel. Coverage begins at 6.30pm, with the draw itself expected to start at approximately 6.45pm, before kick off at 7.30pm.

FA Cup second-round draw ball numbers

There will be 40 teams in the draw for the second round with 20 fixtures to be made ahead of the entry of the Premier League and Championship clubs from the third round onwards.

The ball numbers are listed below:

1. Dover Athletic

2. Mansfield Town

3. Exeter City

4. Luton Town

5. Bristol Rovers

6. Oldham Athletic or Sheffield Wednesday

7. Kidderminster Harriers

8. Leyton Orient

9. Wycombe Wanderers

10. Milton Keynes Dons

11. Newport County

12. Rotherham United

13. Barnet

14. Rochdale

15. Barnsley

16. Plymouth Parkway or Berkhamsted

17. Chesterfield

18. Barrow

19. AFC Fylde

20. Crewe Alexandra

21. Stevenage

22. Burton Albion

23. Cray Wanderers or Stockport County

24. Port Vale

25. Cheltenham Town

26. Colchester United

27. Eastleigh

28. Reading

29. Wimborne Town or Crawley Town

30. Plymouth Argyle

31. Blackpool

32. Sutton United

33. Stafford Rangers or Grimsby Town

34. Leicester City

35. Bradford City

36. York City

37. Notts County

38. Wigan Athletic

39. Carlisle United

40. Salisbury

When will the FA Cup second-round ties take place?

The 20 FA Cup second-round matches will be held across the weekend of 5-6 of December, with the third-round draw presumed to take place on the evening of Monday 7 December.

We are coming at you with a new episode of the podcast a day early because circumstances demand it! What circumstances you ask? Well, first of all the Purdue men’s basketball lost to Valpo on Friday night in what can only be described as a horrible loss. Purdue looked bad all over the court. Then, on Saturday afternoon in front of a Homecoming crowd at Ross-Ade Stadium the Purdue football team continued their losing streak and fell to who we thought was one of the worst teams in the league, the Maryland Terrapins. But perhaps most importantly, my Bucs face Ryan’s Bears on Sunday Night Football tonight exactly when we normally record the podcast. So, we did the right thing and recorded a day early.

I’m not sure if this recording was cathartic or if it just made me angry all over again. Either way it was good to get these things out. So, join us for this episode, like, share, subscribe, do all of the things.

Chelsea visit the Stadium of Light with major changes to their starting lineup.

Xabi Alonso has shuffled his pack to face a tenacious Sunderland, turning to the magic of Cole Palmer from the start.

The biggest bombshell comes in goal for the London side. 'Dibu' Martínez is absent from both the starting lineup and the bench, with Mike Penders chosen to take his place between the posts for the Blues.

Meanwhile, young starlet Estevao waits for his chance on the bench alongside Welbeck and Quenda. In midfield, Moisés Caicedo wears the captain's armband, joined by Romeo Lavia and Henderson.

They face a Sunderland side captained by veteran Granit Xhaka. The hosts are counting on the defensive solidity of Thomas Meunier and Nordi Mukiele, with powerful striker Brian Brobbey leading the line.

A crucial clash in which the 'Black Cats' will look to spring a surprise against a Chelsea side featuring a host of forced and unexpected tactical changes.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

Is Arch Manning in the middle of another second-half resurgence?

It sure looks that way.

Texas' QB1 was asked after Saturday's 34-20 win at No. 18 Missouri if this was his best individual performance of the season.

"I don't know," he said. "I've got to watch the film."

Hey Arch, those two mice in sunglasses standing on the sideline at Faurot Field all agreed they saw it as your best game and their third visually challenged brother co-signed after watching through his readers.

MORE CED: How the Horns gutted it out at Missouri

Manning doesn't shy away from a challenge and even during the darkest moments of his fourth year on campus, he has maintained a stiff upper lip and a quiet confidence that has sustained him from the tough times to this nice little heater he has been on since the Florida loss. He played one of the cleanest games of his career with 297 yards 28-of-38 passes with three touchdowns and no interceptions or lost fumbles.

His play has admittedly been spotty at times this season but Manning never lost the respect of the men in that locker room who have kept their faith in him strong throughout the season.

At it's not just the offensive players who believe in him. Manning commands the respect of all and one need only check out what was happening on the sideline in the moments before the defense took the field to seal it on Warren Roberson's forced fumble and Graceson Littleton's scoop, 44-yard return and kneel down at the four-yard line.

Manning had lifted the Texas Longhorns from a 20-13 deficit to a 27-20 lead but wasn't over on the bench with his head in a tablet. Instead, he was in the defensive huddle imploring his guys to get one more stop to bring a win back to the 512.

"Yeah, he's a team dude, not just offense," said defensive tackle Hero Kanu. "It's everybody. We feed off his energy. His energy was electric, him staying with us on the d-line, talking and getting us hyped."

Sign up for Ced's Corner

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With three games remaining, Manning is leading and just as important, is him starting to play like the big cheese that led the Horns to a 6-1 finish to the 2025 season. This was his sixth straight win over a top 25 opponent dating back to last season.

"It was a long week," Manning said. "I'm glad we had a little gritty road win."

 Sure, he's the most polarizing quarterback around these parts since Chris Simms, who knows a thing or 10 about living up to the family standard of quarterbacking amid heavy scrutiny both from the stands, the press box and the social media monster.

Unlike Simms' stay here where he played in front of a fan base split on if Mack Brown should be starting him or the more popular Major Applewhite, Manning isn't embroiled in any quarterback controversy. Those few murmurs about possibly getting back K.J. Lacey some run after the Florida game have gone away amid this three-game winning streak that has come despite the Horns missing some key contributors due to injury.

At least three more games to get those numbers up

In my annual preseason prediction piece, I projected Manning to pick up where he left off in the 2025 season when he finished the last six games averaging 285.6 passing yards while accounting for 19 touchdowns with only two interceptions in his final 315 attempts.

MORE HORNS:Best photos from Texas-Missouri

I wrote that he would finish what I believed to be his final college season with 3,775 passing yards and 36 touchdown passes. Why not expect him to take it to another level? After all,  he was only the third quarterback in program history - Vince Young and Colt McCoy were the others - to top 3,000 yards passing, 25 touchdown passes, 500 rushing yards and 10 rushing touchdowns in the same season.

The current numbers -  2,024 passing yards, 18 TD passes and two rushing scores - are well off the pace unless the Horns keep this streak going through a sustained CFP run that would include two or more games added to the 12-game regular season slate. 

It could happen, especially if wideout Cam Coleman's shoulder heals up and if the nation's top sack master Colin Simmons can add to his workload after toughing out a dozen or so plays with a high ankle sprain.

MORE HORNS: Arch Manning and the strangest fumble ever

Things broke their way Saturday with losses by two teams ahead of them in the rankings - No. 1 Miami and No. 4 Kentucky - which paves the way for a move up.

Wins aside, Manning just provided a nice blueprint to success entering his Louisiana homecoming at LSU Saturday: play clean, take what the defense gives you and go downtown when given the opportunity.

A win over the Bayou Bengals would be a national best fifth over a ranked team and all but guarantee a spot in the big tournament, assuming they don't suffer an epic collapse in winnable games against Arkansas and the reeling Texas A&M Aggies.

This version of Manning could lead the Horns to special places.

This article originally published at Why this version of Arch Manning can lead Texas football to special places | Golden.

Jason Witten opens up about whirlwind week as new Sooner offensive coordinator appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Seattle Seahawks will play at home in their Week 9 divisional showdown against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, and will look to build momentum and strengthen their position in the NFC West with a win on the day. Following their victory over the Cardinals earlier in the year, the Seahawks will have an opportunity to make another statement this week by completing the season sweep. Here are three bold predictions for the matchup.

1. Josh Jobe records multiple interceptions

Jobe will put forth his biggest performance of the season against Arizona. Entering Week 9 with 32 tackles and one interception, the Seahawks cornerback will have another opportunity to make his presence felt against Arizona. Although he didn't record an interception in the two teams’ previous meeting this year, expect Jobe to capitalize on mishaps from Gardner Minshew and come away with multiple takeaways in the game.

2. Tory Horton surpasses 70 receiving yards

Seattle has been searching for dependable WR2 production all season long, and Horton will finally provide it. Horton has recorded eight receptions for 93 yards and a touchdown this season. Against Arizona, expect him to deliver a season-best performance, surpassing 70 receiving yards and giving Seattle another dangerous option alongside Jaxon Smith-Njigba.

3. Seahawks defense holds Gardner Minshew to under 150 passing yards

Seattle's defense will make life difficult for Minshew all game long. Expect consistent pressure, disrupted passing lanes and opportunistic coverage from the Seahawks’ unit. The Seahawks will hold Minshew to under 150 passing yards while forcing at least one interception.

This article originally appeared on Seahawks Wire: 3 bold predictions for Seahawks’ Week 9 matchup vs. Cardinals

Three of the NFL's top stars will have a chance to reach career milestones and set historic marks on Sunday during Week 9. Ja'Marr Chase, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and CeeDee Lamb will look to build on the great seasons they're already having this year.

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase leads the NFL with 60 touchdown receptions and ranks second with 563 receptions and 7,329 receiving yards since entering the NFL in 2021.

With a touchdown reception against the Atlanta Falcons in Madrid on Sunday, Chase, who has six touchdown receptions this season, can join Randy Moss as the only player with 7 touchdown receptions in each of his first six seasons.

If Chase is able to get 100 yards receiving on Sunday, he can surpass Pro Football Hall of Famer Lance Alworth (27 games) and CeeDee Lamb (27) and tie Julio Jones (28) for the fourth-most games with at least 100 receiving yards by a player under the age of 27 in NFL history, trailing only Pro Football Hall of Famer Randy Moss (38 games) and Justin Jefferson (37).

Dallas Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb leads the NFL with 631 receptions since entering the league in 2020 and ranks third with 60 receptions this season. With at least 2 receptions against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday, Lamb can surpass DeAndre Hopkins for the most receptions by a player before the age of 28.

Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba leads the NFL with 985 receiving yards and 9 touchdown receptions this season, including a league-high seven games with 100-or-more receiving yards. If he can get another 100 yards receiving against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, Smith-Njigba, 24, will have 19 career games with at least 100 receiving yards and could become the third player under 25 with at least 100 receiving yards in 20 games, joining Justin Jefferson and Randy Moss.

This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: Sunday's NFL Slate Could Be Huge for These 3 WRs

If Saturday was Ilie Sanchez's last time speaking to the media as an Austin FC player, he certainly didn't hold anything back. 

Sanchez, who was Austin FC's captain the last two seasons and is likely to become a free agent this winter, said he is in favor of abolishing ICE following the Verde and Black's 2-0 loss to Portland at Q2 Stadium in their MLS season finale. 

"I would personally like to say: abolish ICE," Sanchez said. "That's what the biggest issue has been lately. And looking at the future, I think that when we had the union between the supporters and Austin FC, we were unstoppable. Or at least you could see a different vibe or even different performances. That's my humble opinion. I hope that things improve and things get better, and things get where this club deserves and the supporters deserve. I would like to leave saying 'thank you' because it's been a pleasure to be a part of this team and city." 

MORE:Austin FC responds to walkout after removal of fan with "Abolish Ice" shirt

Austin FC and anti-ICE demonstrations

Austin FC received considerable backlash online and from its fans following the Sept. 26 removal of former city council candidate Daniela Silva from Q2 Stadium for violating the venue policy that states, "Signs, symbols, or images displayed for commercial purposes for electioneering, campaigning or advocating for or against any candidate, political party, legislative issues or government action is prohibited." 

Silva was wearing an "Abolish ICE" shirt inside the stadium about a week after a federal immigration officer shot a Venezuelan food delivery driver in Austin.

Some supporters' groups staged a walkout shortly after kickoff the next home match Oct. 10 against Nashville and have urged the club in social media postings to take action - and even publicly come out against the federal agency  - on issues involving U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Austin FC released a statement expressing support for its fans and the immigrant community but did not go as far as Sanchez did Saturday.

Sanchez, 35, is from Barcelona, Spain and has played in MLS since 2017. Austin FC has an option to renew his contract for 2027, but given his age, declining play and speaking of his time with the club in the past tense, that seems unlikely. 

This article originally published at 'Abolish ICE': Austin FC captain, citing rift with fans, makes bold proclamation.

Red Sox's Former Interest in Cubs Ace Could Lead to Offseason Signing Now originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

A lot of the focus for the Boston Red Sox in the early stages of the offseason, at least from the fan base, has been centered around how they're going to improve on the offensive side of the baseball. 

I don't disagree with that at all, as the Red Sox have a need to improve in that area. However, it's also fair to mention that Boston is going to be a team that tries to improve on the mound as well.

With the Red Sox being a contending team, squads can never have enough starting pitching, specifically, and with the possibility of losing Sonny Gray, it feels very likely that Craig Breslow is going to do what's necessary to add a starter. 

According to the latest report, there was a player that the Red Sox were interested in a couple of years ago when he came over to America. That guy is none other than Shota Imanaga, the Chicago Cubs' left-handed free agent.

"Even if the rotation looks to be a strong suit, you can never count out [Craig Breslow] from adding more rotation depth, particularly if Gray signs elsewhere," Ian Browne wrote. 

"One name that intrigues me? Shota Imanaga. Breslow was really fond of him when he was scouting him for the Cubs three years ago. The Cubs wound up signing him, but Breslow was in his early stages with the Red Sox at that point."

Imanaga is a very difficult player to evaluate at times because of his questionable number of home runs allowed each year. 

He's coming off a year in which he allowed 35 bombs, and it wasn't like he was much better in the previous two seasons, allowing 27 and 31.

 When he came over from Japan, there were many questions about whether he was going to keep the ball in the yard. Unfortunately, that question is still there, and at 33 years old, it doesn't look like that's going to change.

More Red Sox

• Latest Red Sox news
• Fenway Park fan guide: What to know before you go
• Complete history of Red Sox championships

The Leeds Rhinos skipper will lead Wales in their World Cup fifth-place play-off semi-final against New Zealand in Wollongong on Monday (00:00 GMT).

Boyd-Ward will be winning her 20th Wales cap, having also played 22 times for England and made seven Ireland appearances.

Wales' top goal-scorer Andrew Higgins will hope to add to his tally of 158 as he joins leading try-scorer Stuart Williams (77) in winning a 40th Wales cap.

Meanwhile, father and son Martin and Matthew Turner will play together for the first time, a Wales landmark at a World Cup.

The encounter will also be the first between the two nations in the wheelchair version of the sport.

Sid Ramsey and Mark Williams earn recalls in the wake of Wales' 92-18 win against the United States, their first at the tournament.

"Jodie reaching 50 international caps is an absolutely incredible achievement," said Wales head coach Alan Caron.

"To be the first player in the world to reach that milestone in Wheelchair Rugby League, and the first female to do so, is something very special. She deserves enormous credit for everything she has contributed to the sport

"It's also particularly pleasing to have Martin and Matthew together in the side; it's great that they'll finally get the chance to play alongside each other for Wales for the first time."

Wales line-up

Sid Ramsey, Fionn McCabe, Andrew Higgins, Jodie Boyd-Ward, Stuart Williams, Matthew Turner, Mark Williams, Martin Turner.

Reserves: Jonathan Gill, John Berriman.

Appointed on Wednesday to replace the sacked Nuno Espirito Santo, Parker has had two away games but just one training session to work with his new group of players.

Little more than 72 hours in the post, but enough time to witness at first hand a soft underbelly on the pitch and a hostile atmosphere in the stands.

Wednesday night was the ultimate game of two halves, as they went three goals down to Cardiff City only to recover in the second half to share a point in a six-goal thriller.

But there was no comeback from a two-goal margin as they slipped to a 2-1 loss at Blackburn Rovers, a result that knocked them out of the play-off places.

And the players were left to face the ire of 7,000 Hammers fans who had trekked up to Ewood Park to see it.

Parker has become a modern-day Championship expert in recent seasons, securing promotion with Fulham (2020), Bournemouth (2022) and then Burnley in 2025, but the Hammers arguably represent his greatest challenge.

A former captain of the club in his playing days, the 46-year-old knows he must quickly ease the disconnect in place between players and fans.

The pressure is on West Ham to deliver an immediate return to the top flight and Parker's early take is that the players are feeling the pressure of that expectation.

"I see a desperate team. 100%, I see a bit of a desperate team," he told BBC Sport. "Desperate as in the sense there is a burden here at this moment.

"Like with anything when there is an expectation, whether it's an expectation of my 12-year-old son doing his maths work, that can easily become a burden.

"What I need to do is support this group and give them the belief and the confidence to show their real quality and for sure I will do that."

'I know what fans expect'

West Ham fans had booed their team off in midweek at half-time in the Welsh capital and they made their feelings known again at the final whistle in Lancashire.

Chants of 'You're not fit to wear the shirt' could be heard, while goalkeeper Mads Hermansen came in for particular anger from the visiting fans.

It was a difficult situation and having played for the Hammers, Parker recognises what the club's supporters want, and need to see.

"I need to turn it around and there is a lot of pain that's come over a number of years really," he added.

"I can see the pain in these players. I see a committed group. It's my job and my responsibility to try to get us pushing in the right direction.

"I connect with every single fan. I'm from where they're from. I know what they expect. I totally understand it and it's my job to fix that."

Appointed on Wednesday to replace the sacked Nuno Espirito Santo, Parker has had two away games but just one training session to work with his new group of players.

Little more than 72 hours in the post, but enough time to witness at first hand a soft underbelly on the pitch and a hostile atmosphere in the stands.

Wednesday night was the ultimate game of two halves, as they went three goals down to Cardiff City only to recover in the second half to share a point in a six-goal thriller.

But there was no comeback from a two-goal margin as they slipped to a 2-1 loss at Blackburn Rovers, a result that knocked them out of the play-off places.

And the players were left to face the ire of 7,000 Hammers fans who had trekked up to Ewood Park to see it.

Parker has become a modern-day Championship expert in recent seasons, securing promotion with Fulham (2020), Bournemouth (2022) and then Burnley in 2025, but the Hammers arguably represent his greatest challenge.

A former captain of the club in his playing days, the 46-year-old knows he must quickly ease the disconnect in place between players and fans.

The pressure is on West Ham to deliver an immediate return to the top flight and Parker's early take is that the players are feeling the pressure of that expectation.

"I see a desperate team. 100%, I see a bit of a desperate team," he told BBC Sport. "Desperate as in the sense there is a burden here at this moment.

"Like with anything when there is an expectation, whether it's an expectation of my 12-year-old son doing his maths work, that can easily become a burden.

"What I need to do is support this group and give them the belief and the confidence to show their real quality and for sure I will do that."

'I know what fans expect'

West Ham fans had booed their team off in midweek at half-time in the Welsh capital and they made their feelings known again at the final whistle in Lancashire.

Chants of 'You're not fit to wear the shirt' could be heard, while goalkeeper Mads Hermansen came in for particular anger from the visiting fans.

It was a difficult situation and having played for the Hammers, Parker recognises what the club's supporters want, and need to see.

"I need to turn it around and there is a lot of pain that's come over a number of years really," he added.

"I can see the pain in these players. I see a committed group. It's my job and my responsibility to try to get us pushing in the right direction.

"I connect with every single fan. I'm from where they're from. I know what they expect. I totally understand it and it's my job to fix that."

The Sooners outgained the Gators by nearly 150 yards and owned a 15-minute edge in time of possession. Mateer completed 64% of his passes and had a little over 250 yards of total offense in the win. The Sooners were efficient, keeping ahead of the chains and putting themselves in manageable third downs throughout the night. Oklahoma went 10 of 18 on third down and were 1 for 1 on fourth down.

It was the most cohesive the Sooners' offense has looked in some time as Witten ran the ball and built play action concepts off of it. The Sooners had 39 total rushes, not including the kneel-down to end the game, and averaged 3.7 yards per carry. That still may not be the number Oklahoma wants to average on the ground, but if you run it consistently, it takes the pressure off of the passing game and allows you to be in better situations as an offense.

Jason Witten and the offensive staff deserve a lot of credit for their game plan, and the players deserve a lot of credit for their execution.

Who knows where the offense goes from here, but it was a strong start to the Jason Witten era of Oklahoma offense.

Here's how social media reacted to the win.

One of the Biggest Differences

Notable

Some Old School Offense

Strong Start for Witten

Because Oklahoma can Actually Play a Little

Elite Celebration

Getting Playmakers Involved

What a difference

Solid Start for Witten

Witten the Answer?

Defense Handled Their Business

Jason Witten is That Dude

Witten Knows how to call a game

Very Underused

Solid from John Mateer

The Drive OU got it's groove back?

Incredible Work

Tony Casillas on win

The Bengals (5-2) find themselves in second place in the AFC North as quarterback Joe Burrow continues to play at an MVP level. After the Tennessee Titans nearly upset them in overtime in Week 8, however, the Bengals have plenty to clean up. Burrow threw five touchdown passes but added three picks to the mix, all three of which went to safety Amani Hooker.

The Falcons are sitting on the wrong side of .500 at 3-5, coming off a disastrous performance from Michael Penix Jr. He threw a career-high four interceptions, completing just 33.3% of pass attempts for 125 yards and no touchdowns in a 16-0 shutout loss against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 8. Atlanta might not find as much relief as it would like to against the Bengals in Week 9, either; Cincinnati's defense has been productive in the turnover department this year, forcing a turnover on 14.7% of opposing drives, fifth-best in the NFL.

Follow along with Yahoo Sports for live updates, highlights and more as the Bengals and Falcons kick off the Week 9 Sunday slate in Madrid, airing on NFL Network.

It has been 10 days since the 2026 season concluded with the Milwaukee Brewers winning their first World Series championship in franchise history. Unsurprisingly, there haven’t been any major moves that have drastically changed the landscape of the sport, and until that first spark is ignited, we must sit back and wait patiently as the offseason trudges on.

The main concern for the Dodgers this offseason is the status of free agent Tarik Skubal, and they aren’t the only ones vying for his services. Teams like the New York Mets, Chicago Cubs and San Diego Padres have all expressed interest in signing the still-reigning two-time American League Cy Young award winner, but the details surrounding a potential contract are mirky.

The Dodgers have already shown over the last three years that they are willing to hand out long-term contracts with record-breaking annual salaries while also dishing out short-term deals with inflated annual values. Katie Woo of The Athletic spoke with A.J. Pierzynski of the Foul Territory podcast about what type of deal Skubal will sign, where she envisions the Dodgers giving Skubal a contract more similar to that of Kyle Tucker rather than Yoshinobu Yamamoto.

“I don’t see the Dodgers shelling out the long-term mega contract for the same reasons they didn’t to for Kyle Tucker. Andrew Friedman wants to prolong the team’s competitive window… Could we see a similar structure to what the Dodgers offered Kyle Tucker— shorter term with a much higher AAV— as their option? That’s certainly the thought process going into the GM Meetings.”

Skubal will be entering his age-30 season in 2027, and Thomas Harrigan of MLB.com writes about how pitchers with historic dominance in their 20’s have fared once they are on the wrong side of 30.

Whether Skubal’s next contract looks like a success will depend on his ability to stay on the mound. But chances are he still has at least a few Cy Young-caliber seasons ahead.

In an effort to break out of camp next year, Josue De Paula is doing everything in his power to ensure that he can be a viable defensive option in the outfield, and that includes working with former Gold Glove award winner and 2018 World Series champion Jackie Bradley Jr., reports Dylan Hernandez of the California Post.

Expert analysts across three major networks are picking the underdog Packers to knock of the Patriots in Gillette Stadium by a 17-6 margin.

The New England Patriots are slight favorites heading into Sunday’s showdown with the Green Bay Packers at Gillette Stadium, but apparently not everyone is buying into New England’s resurgence.

Despite identical 5-3 records and both teams winning four of their last five games, a significant majority of experts at ESPN and NFL.com are picking Green Bay to leave Foxborough with a victory.

Across three major national prediction panels — ESPN, CBS Sports and NFL.com — 17 of 23 analysts are backing the Packers.

The disconnect between the betting market and the national media is one of the more interesting storylines surrounding Sunday’s 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff.

The Patriots are three-point favorites, according to the odds listed by NFL.com, yet some of the most recognizable NFL analysts believe Jordan Love and the Packers will prevail over Drake Maye and New England.

Here’s a closer look at who’s picking whom, and why.

ESPN Experts Overwhelmingly Favor Green Bay

ESPN’s 11-member prediction panel has delivered one of the strongest votes of confidence for the Packers. Nine analysts picked Green Bay, with only Mike Clay and Dan Graziano choosing New England.

Among those backing the Packers are Matt Bowen, Jeremy Fowler, Ben Solak, Eric Moody, Jason Reid, Kalyn Kahler, Pamela Maldonado, Lindsey Thiry and Seth Wickersham.

However, ESPN Patriots reporter Mike Reiss sees things differently. Reiss predicts a 27-24 Patriots victory, pointing to the importance of New England’s secondary against Green Bay’s passing attack.

“CB Christian Gonzalez will need to bring his ‘A’ game,” Reiss wrote in his prediction, as published in the Patriots’ expert picks roundup.

That matchup could be decisive against Love, who has been one of the league’s most dangerous deep-ball passers this season.

NFL.com Analysts Pick Packers 4-1, but One Expert Sees a Major Weakness

Four of NFL.com’s five analysts predict a Green Bay victory, although all five expect a competitive game.

Jeremy Bergman picks the Packers 20-17, Gennaro Filice predicts a 27-23 Green Bay victory, Bobby Kownack has the Packers winning 24-23, and Dan Parr forecasts a 26-24 result.

Brooke Cersosimo is the lone NFL.com analyst backing New England, predicting a 24-20 Patriots victory. Her reasoning centers on Green Bay’s inability to establish a consistent running game.

The Packers enter Sunday averaging an NFL-worst 60.6 rushing yards per game, while New England has allowed just 92.6 rushing yards per contest.

Cersosimo believes that imbalance will eventually catch up with Green Bay.

“It’s a weakness the Packers have been able to overcome in past weeks, but it’ll catch up to them this time,” she wrote in NFL.com’s Week 9 predictions.

Her analysis provides one of the strongest arguments for a New England victory: If the Patriots can make Green Bay one-dimensional, they could force Love into difficult passing situations.

CBS Sports Experts Are More Divided

The seven-member CBS Sports panel is nearly evenly split, with four analysts backing Green Bay and three predicting a Patriots victory.

Pete Prisco, Jared Dubin, John Breech and Tyler Sullivan picked the Packers.

Ryan Wilson, Dave Richard and Jamey Eisenberg chose New England.

Prisco anticipates a defensive struggle and predicts Green Bay will escape with a 19-16 victory.

“This has the feel of a low-scoring game with two good defenses,” Prisco wrote.

He believes Green Bay’s additional rest after playing the previous Thursday will prove beneficial, with Love making the difference in the closing minutes.

Prisco’s prediction is particularly interesting because it contrasts with the expectations of those who believe Maye and Love could produce an offensive showcase.

Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio Makes a Bold Patriots Prediction

While much of the national media is leaning toward Green Bay, Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio is decidedly more optimistic about New England.

Florio predicts a 31-21 Patriots victory, one of the more decisive New England wins forecast by a prominent national analyst. That prediction stands in sharp contrast to the narrow margins projected by most of the NFL.com and CBS Sports panels.

If Florio is correct, the Patriots would not only defeat another playoff contender but do so by double digits.

Patriots Insiders Expect a Close Victory

The Patriots’ own media analysts are unanimous in picking New England, although each expects a tight contest.

Paul Perillo predicts a 24-23 Patriots victory, believing Green Bay’s struggles in the kicking game could become a factor.

Mike Dussault forecasts a 28-27 New England win, with the battle between the defensive fronts and opposing offensive lines playing a central role.

Evan Lazar expects the Patriots to win 23-20 on a late field goal by Andy Borregales.

“I think we’re in for a classic at Gillette Stadium on Sunday that’s a true coin-flip game,” Lazar wrote.

He also acknowledged the difficulty of separating two teams that have followed remarkably similar paths through the first eight games.

The predictions reflect both confidence in the Patriots’ progress and an understanding that Green Bay represents a significant challenge.

The Athletic and Sports Illustrated Panels Are Split

Other national outlets are far less convinced that Green Bay is the obvious choice.

At The Athletic, four of seven analysts picked the Packers, while three favored the Patriots.

Sports Illustrated’s MMQB panel went the other direction, with five of eight experts selecting New England.

Among the MMQB analysts picking the Patriots were Mike Kadlick, Gilberto Manzano, Matt Verderame, Eva Geitheim and John Pluym.

That split reinforces the notion that Sunday’s matchup is far closer than ESPN’s lopsided prediction panel might suggest.

What the Expert Predictions Really Tell Us

The most revealing aspect of the national predictions isn’t simply that more analysts favor Green Bay. It’s that most expect the game to be decided by a handful of points.

All five NFL.com predictions have margins of four points or fewer. Prisco sees a three-point Packers victory. Reiss predicts a three-point Patriots win. The experts generally agree on one thing: These are two closely matched teams with talented young quarterbacks and defenses capable of influencing the outcome.

But they disagree about which team is better equipped to overcome its weaknesses.

Green Bay has struggled to run the football, putting additional pressure on Love. New England must find ways to protect Maye and generate offense without several key playmakers.

There is also the matter of home-field advantage, which could prove important in a game expected to remain competitive into the fourth quarter.

The Patriots have an opportunity to prove the national skeptics wrong Sunday afternoon.

And if New England defeats Green Bay, it will have done so against a team that many of the country’s most prominent NFL analysts expected to win.

Need One Prediction to Hang Your Hat On?

You can call us homers if you want, but we’ve done our homework and Patriots Football Now is calling it for New England, 24-21.

Related Headlines

• 5 Keys to a New England Patriots Victory Over the Green Bay Packers in Week 9
• Patriots Receive Major Gabe Jacas Injury Boost Ahead of Packers Showdown
• College Football Playoff Chaos: After 21 Top 10 Losses, How Can Any Fan Base Feel Safe?

Read more at Sportsnaut

Welcome to The Linc, the daily Philadelphia Eagles links roundup at Bleeding Green Nation!

It’s been a weird season for Cooper DeJean, who was pretty awesome in his first two seasons for the Birds. The All-Pro defensive back is missing more tackles than ever (seven missed tackles in eight games this year, one away from tying his single-season career-high for missed tackles) and he’s been vulnerable in coverage (96.2 passer rating allowed after it was just 78.0 over his first two seasons). Seems like the struggles could be a combination of him being more injured than we know … plus his new role splitting time between nickel cornerback and safety. The feeling here is that DeJean will rebound next season. It’s silly to get too down on him.

Let’s get to the Philadelphia Eagles news and links …

Struggling players at midseason: Is Justin Herbert broken beyond repair? Can DK Metcalf get right? – NFL.com

COOPER DEJEAN — What’s the problem? A first-team All-Pro selection in 2025, DeJean has struggled in his transition from nickel to safety this season. The Eagles have used the third-year pro as a starting safety in their base defense to leverage his athleticism, range and ball skills in the deep half. While DeJean has continued to make plays in coverage, particularly in the slot, he has struggled with his tackling in the hole from the safety spot. With a missed-tackle percentage of 21.3%, per Next Gen Stats, DeJean’s struggles with angles and wrapping up have contributed to the Eagles’ surprising defensive woes. Will he bounce back in 2026? DeJean is too talented to let his slump drag on through the end of the season. The athletic defender will eventually adjust to the different angles and figure out the contact balance needed to knock running backs off their pins in the hole. Whether he spends more time on the practice field hitting the tackling dummy or taking the “banana” route (an inside-out angle to the ball-carrier), DeJean will find a way to reduce his missed tackles with more experience and better technique. Given how quickly he became an NFL star as a slot defender, it is too soon to write off the 23-year-old as a failed safety.

Nick Sirianni explains decision for Eagles QB change – BGN

“Every second that goes by in a situation like that, that you can hold onto information as long as you possibly can, is a little less time for the opponent to get ready for the game. I know there’s a lot of interest in everything that you all want to hear, the fans want to hear. My job is to win football games, do everything we can do to help win football games, protect the guys here on this football team, and handle everything that I can inside.”

Fantasy football start/sit advice for Week 9 at QB, RB, WR, TE – SB Nation

Malachi Fields, Giants at Eagles. Will JJ McCarthy continue his strong play this week in Philadelphia? Maybe, but I do think he’s going to give his receivers chances to make explosive plays either way. And the Eagles pass defense has been bad this season. Philly has allowed the third-most receptions, second-most yards, third-most touchdowns, and the most fantasy points to wide receivers through eight games. Malik Nabers says he will play, but he is dealing with a knee injury that has kept him out of practice. Isaiah Likely is high on the pecking order as well, but the Eagles have been tougher on tight ends, allowing the sixth-fewest fantasy points to the position.

Eagles’ Tanner McKee: Expected to suit up Sunday – CBS Sports

McKee is listed as questionable for Week 9 due to what the report notes is “a cracked rib sustained on the first drive” in Week 8, but it appears he is feeling good enough to suit up. Joe Milton is set to start for the Eagles, so even if McKee is in uniform as anticipated, McKee will open the contest in a reserve role.

Game Preview – NYG at PHI – Iggles Blitz

Milton is a good athlete so the Eagles could mix in designed runs or just go with RPOs. He has a big time arm so they could try to dial up more deep shots. None of this will mean much unless the Eagles OL does their part. They were not good enough last week. That has to change. The Giants run defense hasn’t been good this season. They don’t have good DTs. Saquon Barkley isn’t 100 percent, but he should play. He’ll have a chance to be productive if the guys up front do their jobs. A good run game would be a huge help for Milton. This really is a can’t lose situation if you think about it. If Milton plays okay and the Eagles win, you get to enjoy a W. If he stinks and the Eagles lose, you move closer to a Top 5 pick. The Eagles haven’t lost a home game to the Giants since 2013. We’ll see if that streak continues. Win or lose, let’s hope the Eagles entertain us for three hours.

Eagles vs. Giants score predictions: Why our beat writers like New York in NFC East clash – The Athletic

At 2-6, the Eagles are teetering on a lost season. Sunday’s game might be their final chance to convince anyone they still have a chance in the NFC East. Prediction: Giants 21, Eagles 19

Eagles notebook: What will the future hold for Drew Mukuba? – NBCSP

Vic Fangio doesn’t just dish out compliments so what he said about Drew Mukuba this week really stood out. What has Fangio made of Mukuba’s season so far? “Overall good,” Fangio said. “Again, some plays that he’d like to have back, but I think he’s a good young player that’s going to be a good player in this league for a long time.” For Fangio, that’s high praise. Mukuba is a second-year safety who has struggled at times this season. But Fangio’s saying he’s going to be a good player in the league for a long time didn’t go unnoticed. Especially not by Mukuba. “It just means that he has a lot of confidence and belief in me,” Mukuba said. “I’ve got to just feed off of that and keep building.”

Game Preview vs. Giants: Six storylines to follow Sunday – PhiladelphiaEagles.com

This game is big in the NFC East. This is the final game for the Eagles before the bye week and it’s crucial. It is the third straight game within the division, one the Giants lead with a 4-2-1 record. The Eagles are looking to get back in the win column and establish themselves in the division heading into the second half of the season. Any other storylines? There are always the numbers that matter – turnover battle, red zone, penalties, special teams hidden yardage – and don’t change week to week. Philadelphia has won 13 straight games (including playoffs) against the Giants dating back to the 2014 campaign. Former Eagles Special Teams Coordinator and Secondary Coach John Harbaugh has had early success with the Giants, as expected. New York is physical, fired up, and confident. The Eagles need to play 60 minutes of good football to win this game.

3 ‘things I think’ before Giants-Eagles: Critical 5-day stretch has arrived – Big Blue View

If the Commanders can defeat the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday, it is possible Washington emerges as the biggest threat to the Giants in the division. A split of the Eagles and Commanders games wouldn’t be devastating, but it would make the path to the playoffs more treacherous for the Giants. Losing both games would bring serious questions regarding whether the Giants are actually ready to capitalize on the opportunity they have. In-between, of course, is the trade deadline. Will the Giants get Jonathan Taylor? A lesser back to supplement what they have? Help at defensive tackle? How much will they be willing to give up to get any of that? Buckle up, Giants fans. It is going to be a fascinating five days.

Cowboys two keys to beating Colts and keeping playoffs hopes alive – Blogging The Boys

The Dallas Cowboys have very possibly not yet defined what “rock bottom” could look like on this 2026 season, but any version of sinking lower than they are right now would involve a second straight loss to a losing team this upcoming Sunday afternoon. The Cowboys are at the Colts, who have not won in over a month. Many things about this matchup make it feel like it’s an opportunity sitting on a tee for Brian Schottenheimer’s team to get back in the win column, and just maybe make the run-in to Thanksgiving interesting. It’s time for our weekly look at how the Cowboys can keep alternating wins and losses by bouncing back in week nine, or how they could send this season farther down the drain with another bad loss.

NFL fined three Commanders defenders for actions in Eagles win – Hogs Haven

The NFL has fined Commanders defensive lineman Charles Omenihu and edge rushers Odafe Oweh and K’Lavon Chaisson for infractions stemming from Washington’s victory over the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 8. Omenihu was fined $14,926 for unsportsmanlike conduct, with the league citing a violent gesture the issue, with 6 minutes, 20 seconds left in the third quarter. Oweh was fined $17,911 for a hit on quarterback Tanner McKee using his body weight with 31 seconds left in the game. Chaisson was also fined for a hit on McKee, with a blow to the head and neck, with 10 seconds left in the third quarter.

…

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Crystal Palace and Liverpool have confirmed their starting line-ups for this afternoon’s clash at Selhurst Park.

Both managers have settled the selection questions and named strong starting XIs to battle for three crucial Premier League points.

For the Reds, Andoni Iraola adds attacking dynamism by starting Florian Wirtz and Bradley Barcola. Dominik Szoboszlai also keeps his place in midfield after starting in the Champions League, partnering Mac Allister in the engine room.

Liverpool’s defence will be led by Virgil van Dijk, with Alisson Becker in goal and Jacquet, Kerkez and Araujo completing the back line. Up front, Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo round out a formidable attack.

Crystal Palace, meanwhile, will take to the pitch with Dean Henderson in goal and wearing the captain’s armband. Their defence boasts solid names such as Óscar Mingueza, Richards and Disasi.

The hosts’ midfield will be marshalled by Lerma, Mitchell, Wharton and Timber, with Kamada and Pino linking up with lone striker Jørgen Strand Larsen. Everything is set for kick-off.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

This article originally appeared on SteelersNOW.com.

Pittsburgh Steelers guard Mason McCormick was not fined by the NFL for slamming Cleveland Browns defensive end Jared Verse after an extra point attempt on Sunday.

McCormick was flagged for unnecessary roughness after Verse jumped to block the Pittsburgh extra point attempt in the second quarter of what became a 27-6 Steelers victory. Verse landed on McCormick and the Steelers guard slammed him to the turf, earning a 15-yard penalty that was enforced on the ensuing kickoff.

Mason McCormick called for a personal foul against Jared Verse on the extra point. Awfully soft. We've already heard way more than we needed to from this officiating crew. https://t.co/PzcfE2p7ql

— Alan Saunders (@ASaunders_PGH) November 1, 2026

The lack of supplemental discipline suggests that the league office did not support the penalty call on review, as most personal fouls also include a fine.

Earlier this week, Browns special teams coach Byron Storer called it dirty play and uncalled for.

Click here to read more from SteelersNOW.com.

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Rolllllllllllll TIDE! What a strange and exhilarating game. It was looking like Alabama was clinging on for dear life for 80% of this game, but then the Tetris pieces just started landing right, all at once.

Here are some alternative titles I considered for this post:

• X “inexplicable” graphs from the LSU win
• X “undeserved” graphs from the LSU win
• X “Tight Ends Only” graphs from the LSU win
• X “Paper beats rock”* graphs from the LSU win

*Consider the last time you played Rock-Paper-Scissors and lost to “Paper.” It doesn’t make any sense … how on earth does Paper beat Rock? Well, that’s what Grubb and Wommack did today: Paper, somehow, soundly defeated rock.Roll Tide.

Let’s dig in

I don’t always show the box score in these columns — the basic “add and average ‘em up” stats tend to oversimplify, and you probably already have a sense for what they are if you watched this game — but we’ve got a few nuggets ‘midst the chaff.

• The Tide had more rushing yards (79 to 77) and higher Yards per rush (2.7 to 2.3) than LSU. How that’s possible, I’m not sure; neither team tried to rush much, but I guess the 4th quarter flipped the trend for both teams.
• Alabama also went for zero 4th downs, while LSU went zero for four. My goodness: if you want to oversimplify by pointing to a single stat in this game, that one might be it. (The iffy DPI on McDonald counts as “No play” in the stats, though you may remember the Tigers effectively did ‘convert’ that one).
• Bama got more sacks (4 to 2). Given the strength of the LSU D line, that’s a surprising category to win in (and should be seen as a unique attribute of Keelon, albeit alongside his areas of needed development).
• TOP wasn’t so bad (~28 to 32 mins). After LSU started turning the ball over on downs a few times, this metric evened out considerably.
• For all of Alabama’s penalties (7), they were only for 44 yards. I guess that’s the silver lining of your penalties being False Starts and the like. Still, that hold on Daniel Hill’s big run was devastating (a fine call, but one you see ignored often) … I swear the guy’d have twice the yardage this season without flags like that.

But, yeah, this was (statistically) rough

Ahem, yeah, we (finally) got (another) one of these wins: ones where we got plays when we needed them instead of, you know, being better than our foes on most plays.

If you’ve followed this column a while, you’ve probably seen me mention a few high-profile Alabama wins of this type, where we posted a lower Success Rate than the (losing) opponent.

Here’s the refreshed list:
Filtering out garbage time and very close results

• 2017 vs. Florida State (Atlanta), 24-7: 27.8% vs. 37.0%
• 2017 vs. LSU, 24-10: 31.7% vs. 37.0%
• 2018 SEC title game vs. Georgia, 35-28: 39.3% vs. 44.9%
• 2019 Citrus Bowl vs. Michigan, 35-16: 43.6% vs. 50.0%
• 2022 at Ole Miss, 30-24: 41.8% vs. 46.8%
• 2023 SEC title game vs. Georgia, 27-24: 45.3% vs. 47.5%
• 2025 at Georgia, 24-21: 40.3% vs. 44.2%
• 2025 at Missouri, 27-24: 40.0% vs. 41.8%
• 2025 at Auburn, 27-20: 34.7% vs. 38.9%
• 2025 CFP first round at Oklahoma, 34-24: 25.9% vs. 32.0%
• ⭐️ 2026 at LSU, 31-13: 45.5% vs. 45.8%.

And well hello there ☝️, it appears that once you filter out garbage time — I’m using the standard SP+ method in the above numbers — this LSU win was actually quite close in Success Rate after all.

So, I retract my churlishness from the prior chart … let’s try that again:

That’s more like it. What I meant to say, ahem, was that Keelon Russell and co. bravely put together just enough in the 2nd and 4th quarters to match the LSU Tigers in offensive efficiency (and, apparently, did more than enough to pull away on the scoreboard).

You can see right there midway through the 4th quarter, when things were just starting to look very charming for the Tide: we had LSU nearly matched in SR and XR (right before we went into prevent defense and … prevent offense?).

And funny enough, this heroic 4th quarter surge from the Tide wasn’t totally reflected in the efficiency data, given the end-of-game garbage time sequences.

But that 2nd quarter was better than you remember: when the game was still treacherously close, Alabama was putting up a higher SRs than LSU. Heck, even the first quarter was better than you remember. My suspicion is that the early 3rd downs success for LSU made those drives more painful than the actual play-by-plays suggested.

The Red Zone

But, yes, I’ve ambled around and buried the lede. The Tide absolutely crushed the Cajun Tigers in the Red Zone, and that has got to be the “other” key metric to consider in how the scoreboard ended up like that.

We already knew that the Ryan Grubb offense, for its warts, is good in the Red Zone. We even had an informed suspicion that the Kane Wommack defense has been “good” in the Red Zone (hence the mostly-deserved “bend but don’t break” jokes). Here are the results for these teams from the season:

But we did not know that the Tide would win this one on the backs of more than tripling LSU’s performance in the Red Zone; that’s a 67% SR for the Tide to their 20%.

Here’s this game:

Had those trends held across the rest of the game, the Tide woulda won by 80. (Hint: those trends did not hold at all on the rest of the field, where Leavitt and co. did most of their damage).

I’d call 3rd down performance the sibling of the Red Zone chart — games can hinge unusually on performance in either — but its cousin is the “Distance to Go” chart.

And for all of LSU’s impressive performance from short yardage this year, Alabama managed to beat ‘em. This hasn’t been our calling card this season, but this was good timing to see a resurgence.

#RTDB (or not)

“Oh, we did well from short yardage? So that means we ran the ball well, right?”

And … actually, yeah! I had to double-check these numbers, but, indeed, we ran the ball well in short-yardage situations:

• The Tide had 6 (of 8) successful plays from short yardage (<4 yards out)
• Of those, 4 were rushes (1 Keelon rush, 2 Trae’Shawn Brown rushes, and 1 RCW TD)
• Then, 2 were passes (a short one to Brown, a 9-yarder to Lottie Brooks)

But, the rushing game started very up and down, with some early success whiplashing to a dive-bomb in the 1st quarter, before rebounding in the 2nd quarter before we kinda stopped running.

Yeah, the offense actually was more balanced than you’d think … until the 2nd half. And that passing game giveth (the 4th quarter resurgence) and taketh away (the 3rd quarter lull before it).

Without that clock-burning sequence at the end — basically, at the very point of that Kaleb Edwards TD to really seal it — we were at a 41% rushing rate. That feels representative of this game, to me.

Tight Ends for everyone

This one’s getting a little long, so I’ll leave you with just a slice of the Player data from this one (which is … admittedly a little uninspiring otherwise).

I wouldn’t say the Tight Ends “reigned supreme” in this one — for such a close game, there was good coverage across nine targets with completed catches — but they were unusually prominent:

• Kaleb Edwards finally had a “leading role” in this one, with 2 explosive catches (and one more successful one), including a killer TD reception at the end.
• Josh Ford had to key catches, including an early tone-setter, before he unfortunately went down late with a noteworthy (but TBD) injury.
• And Marshall Pritchett, the usual “receiving TE,” caught two (but neither successful gains).

In addition, the running backs got involved, with Daniel Hill (1/2 successful) and Trae’shawn Brown (1 successful) adding to the books.

The receivers contributed in various ways, of course, but the most notable to me is Cederian Morganmaking a sudden appearance to haul in an awesome TD pass from Keelon Russell. That one really got me goin’.

But, yeah, we won the dang thing. And for all its flaws and mystery, the “not as good as ESPN” Win Probability chart had a lot more confidence in the Tide than I did:

Enjoy this one. Roll Tide.

Norfolk State coach Michael Vick was at a loss for words at the ending of the Spartans' home game vs. North Carolina Central on Saturday, Nov. 7.

With the Spartans holding a 28-23 lead, possession of the football and — most importantly — the Eagles having only one timeout, Norfolk State needed only to run victory formation with less than two minutes on the clock to virtually seal the win.

Vick told his team as much, then took off his headset as he prepared to walk onto the field following the game.

REQUIRED READING: Marcus Freeman made his point without saying a word. Notre Dame believes

Instead, quarterback Deljay Bailey took the snap, rushed left and was strip-sacked by NC Central defensive lineman Khareem Thompson. Defensive back John Clifford Jr. recovered the ball at the Norfolk State 37-yard line and, five plays later, the Eagles scored a go-ahead touchdown.

Norfolk State had the opportunity for a walk-off field goal thanks to a failed NC Central 2-point conversion, some timely completions and two separate unsportsmanlike penalties from the Eagles. But the Spartans' 37-yard field goal attempt as time expired was no good.

With that, the Spartans squandered the victory while Vick looked for answers.

Speaking to media after the game, he said he didn't know what happened between the time he relayed his instructions and the Spartans ran the play that cost them the game.

Michael Vick on the crucial fumble that opened the door for Norfolk State's stunning defeat to North Carolina Central.@WTKR3pic.twitter.com/rJBWUCF9Dx

— Marc Davis (@marcdavissports) November 7, 2026

"It's always tough when you put yourself in a position to win and it don't happen," Vick said. "I feel really bad for the players right now. I don't know what happened at the end of the game. I put my headset down, I called victory formation. All we had to do was take a knee and just kneel the clock out. That's just situational football. I don't know what happened with regards to that. I looked up and we was running the ball, and I seen the fumble."

Vick later specified he didn't understand how or why Norfolk State was running the ball after he specifically had called a victory formation. He didn't even know what the play call was.

"People will look at that, and that'll go as teaching tape for a lot of years to come. I hate it had to be us, but ... " Vick said, before pausing. "I called victory formation. I just want everybody to know that."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Michael Vick called victory formation. Norfolk State’s next snap was a nightmare

Three back-nine birdies were more than enough to power Jon Rahm to the winner's circle and past former LIV Golf playing mate Tyrrell Hatton at the Abu Dhabi Aldar Championship.

Rahm won the DP World Tour's first of two playoff events at 23 under, besting Hatton by two shots and Rory McIlory by four.

"It's been quite a while since I played good in a DP World Tour event," Rahm said on the 18th green, adding that he was still in a bit of disbelief.

He left LIV formerly last month and missed the cut at his last DPWT start, the BMW PGA Championship in September, in what ended up being the worst finish of his professional career.

"From last to first, it's a pretty good feeling," Rahm said.

When he made the turn Sunday, Rahm was tied with three others.

"Beside the second shot on 17, I played a pretty flawless back nine," he said, crediting his 6-iron shot approach shot on the 15th hole as a turning moment of the final round."

"That second shot on 15 will be a contender for shot of the year for me," he added.

McIlroy, who was docked two strokes during Thursday’s opening round for improving his lie, finished at 19 under.

McIlroy's started his back nine birdie-birdie but any chances of a comeback — and first career win at Yas Links, where he has collected plenty of finishes inside the top five — were thwarted by a run of three consecutive pars and a bogey at the par-4 15th. McIlroy went for three more pars to card a 3-under 69 in his final round.

The win marks Rahm's 11th title on the DP World Tour. He was playing in his first competitive event in seven weeks after the birth of his fourth child.

He was asked if Sunday felt like a new beginning.

"One could say that after everything that's gone on, with some poor play," he said moments after the win. "Battles mentally, lot of noise. To come back out — after a little bit of rest and a new addition to the family, it's quite special."

Rahm could win his second Race to Dubai crown if he wins next week's DP World Tour Championship and current RTD leader Eugenio Chacarra finishes outside the top eight. Rahm sits No. 6 after jumping 45 spots with Sunday's victory in Abu Dhabi.

"I didn't think I'd ever have a chance to win it," Rahm said with a laugh.

"It gives me a little incentive next week," he added. "That's better odds than I expected."

Giving back the hosting rights to the 2027 men's world championship because of Russia's possible inclusion is no longer an option for Germany, the country's ice hockey boss said on Sunday.

"We want to hold the world championship in Germany next year, and I am also very optimistic that we will manage that," German Ice Hockey Federation (DEB) chief executive Frank Lutz told reporters.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruled last month that Russia could take part in international ice hockey competitions again despite its long war in Ukraine.

The judgement could have implications for other sports after the International Olympic Committee last year opened the door for Russia to return to the sporting fold.

The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) had argued security concerns meant Russia should still be excluded, but Russia appealed and won at CAS.

Lutz and the German government then considered handing back the hosting rights to May's event, but ticket sales will now carry on as planned.

A withdrawal would come with financial penalties and could damage Munich's bid for the Olympics.

The IIHF recently said it would take a diplomatic route following the CAS ruling, which Lutz welcomes. Media reports say Russia is being persuaded to pull out after some nations and sponsors threatened a boycott.

"We have seven or eight nations that have declared they do not want to play against a Russian team at the world championship. That makes a 16-nation world championship impossible," Lutz said.

"The CAS ruling obliges the IIHF to readmit Russia. That is something we reject for many reasons. German politics rejects that too." Germany refusing visas for Russian players is one option available.

An under-20 men's championship is taking place in Canada at the end of the year and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has said Russians will not attend, without specifying the details.

The Swiss ice hockey federation said on Sunday that its team would not face Russia in the Canadian junior tournament.

Thursday, November 12th

DAZN, 6:30 pm ET Eye of the Tiger

From Montreal, Canada. Solid main event between undefeated super lightweights Jhon Orobio and Henri Cedeno. Chief support is also a significant fight between a pair of guys who’ve headlined these sorts of Canadian shows in the past: Erik Bazinyan vs Steven Butler. Both men return to action after knockout losses their last time out. Butler lost to Edgar Berlanga by 7th round stoppage back in July, while Bazinyan was knocked out in the 10th by Jaime Munguia back in September of 2024. Also on the undercard is Wyatt Sanford, making his 9th outing in just 18 months as a pro. 

Friday, November 13th

DAZN, 6:00 pm ET Red Owl Boxing: BoxFest XXII

From Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Main event is a middleweight affair between Erron Peterson and Miguel Hernandez. These Red Owl shows usually hit DAZN’s schedule late, so the broadcast time may be a little different… But, the venue says the event starts at 5pm ET, which usually means doors open time, and I’m assuming the punching (and live streaming of the punching) should kick off about an hour later. 

ProBoxTV, 7:00 pm ET Ring Wars 25 (ProBox/Sampson Boxing)

From El Paso, Texas. Solid card of well-matched fights, as ProBox is known to provide. Main event is Bryan Flores vs Jose Nunez at super lightweight. Spotlight support fights include Tsendbaatar Erdenebat vs Muhammad Yaqubov and Ruben Aguilar vs Guido Schramm. 22 year old Elijah Flores returns to action after his first setback, a split decision loss on a ProBox show back in January. 

Saturday, November 14th

Paramount+, 7:30 am ET Zuffa Boxing 13

From Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Dana White’s takeover of American Boxing shifts from England to Saudi Arabia. Sure, it’s almost 4,000 miles in the opposite direction… But, maybe Dana is making a sneak attack on American Boxing from behind? Three more events eastward and he’d have brought himself around to Los Angeles! And then won’t you all look silly for doubting him? Anyway, the notoriously raucous Saudi boxing crowds will surely be at a fever pitch for this lineup, headlined by Carlos Adames NOT defending his WBC middleweight title against NOT his mandatory challenger Meiirim Nursultanov, instead choosing to fight north of 160 lbs. against BoxRec’s #219 super middleweight, Gerome Warburton. It’s unfortunate Zuffa couldn’t get Adames a better matchup for his inaugural outing on their promotion, but I suppose recognizable names at middle and super middle aren’t exactly falling from trees, eh? Also on the show: super middleweight and Jaime Munguia beater-upper Bruno Surace fights Kamil Bednarek. And former world champion and current middleweight Radzhab Butaev fights Alexander Castro. Jason Moloney is here, too. 

DAZN, 2:00 pm ET MF Pro: Viddal Riley vs. Seydi Coupe

From London, England. As far as I can tell, a respectable, if unspectacular, conventional boxing show with none of the traditional Misfits nincompoops or stumblebums uglying up the ring. If there are any, they’re likely on the prelims, which start on DAZN at 11:30 am ET. Beyond the main event, where a European cruiserweight title is on the line, you’ve also got Zelfa Barrett vs Gavin Gwynne and Yaser Al Ghena vs Ben Marksby, the latter for the European and Commonwealth super lightweight titles. There’s also a B-side guy on the prelims named Kurt Jackson, and it seems he has a bit of a Google problem since he shares a name with a British artist who paints landscapes. Artist Kurt Jackson is either very well regarded, or very effective at search engine optimization, and our fighting Kurt is tougher to find when searching for prominent Englishmen. 

Diego Pacheco vs Darius Fulghum (DAZN and TNT, 8:00 pm ET)

BLH will have live results and updates

From Carson, California. Over five years ago, Pacheco talked to Bad Left Hook about his goal to fight for a title by the time he was 22 years old. He turns 26 in four months, and he’s yet to book that title shot, instead choosing to avoid purse bids, mandatory orders, or options to fight for belts against Christian Mbili, Janibek Alimkhanuly, and Hamzah Sheeraz. Here, Pacheco fights Darius Fulghum, who enters on a 1-1-1 streak, with the only win coming against Yoanki Urrutia. I believed in the talent of Pacheco, and I still want to believe he can eventually step up and do something with it. But, either the lad himself or those he trusts to manage his career seem to think he’s not ready or not able to take the next step. Any more fights like this, and perhaps it’s just time to accept that Pacheco has found his level and isn’t actually capable of success beyond. 

ON THE UNDERCARD: Anthony Olascuaga defends his WBO flyweight belt against undefeated Colombian and former Olympic silver medalist Yuberjen Martinez. Martinez is 35 years old, but didn’t turn pro until 2022 after a lengthy amateur career with multiple Olympic appearances. He’s fighting for the 8th time as a pro, winning all seven previous outings by knockout. Two other ten round support fights: Charlie Sheehy vs Gabriel Flores and David Adeleye vs Alexander Flores. Prelims start on DAZN at 4:15 pm ET.

Superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes can break an NFL record during the Kansas City Chiefs' Week 9 matchup against the New York Jets.

According to Michael David Smith of Pro Football Talk, Mahomes is just three scores away from leapfrogging former Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos signal-caller Peyton Manning for the distinction of having the most passing touchdowns among all quarterbacks in their first 10 seasons in the NFL.

Mahomes is currently playing in his tenth season and will almost certainly surpass Manning in this impressive category during the back half of Kansas City's 2026 schedule.

While the Chiefs' offense struggled during Kansas City's two-game losing streak in Weeks 7 and 8, Mahomes put together a brilliant performance during the team's defeat at the hands of the Denver Broncos on November 1.

In the 28-24 loss, Mahomes completed 30 of his 41 pass attempts for 321 yards and three touchdowns — a stat line that would be enough to propel him past Manning in the NFL record books, if he were to equal or surpass it against the Jets in Week 9.

This article originally appeared on Chiefs Wire: Patrick Mahomes can break NFL record set by Peyton Manning in Week 9

Darian Mensah may apparently need some more seasoning before being considered a top quarterback prospect.

During the closing stages of Saturday’s game against Notre Dame, the Miami quarterback botched the final drive, forgetting to spike the ball with 13 seconds left. It resulted in a 24-31 loss for the Hurricanes and much ridicule from fans:

Mensah finished with 24 completions for 302 yards and three touchdowns, but also an interception. Two of those scores went to Cooper Barkate, who had 118 yards on 10 catches. Elija Lofton took the other as part of his 113-yard outing.

Meanwhile, CJ Carr led the Fighting Irish with 29/40 for 319 yards and three touchdowns. Micah Gilbert had two of those scores.

Darian Mensah speaks after Miami’s loss to Notre Dame

After the game, Darian Mensah addressed the media. He said about the defeat (via CaneSport Miami Football’s YouTube channel):
“This one definitely stings, and like I said earlier, we’ve got to use it. But like you said, everything we want is still in front of us. We’ve got to stay positive and be ready to come to work Monday.”
He added:
“We’ve got to start faster. I’ve got to play better. We can’t turn it over. I know the situation, and I’m really just hurting for our guys right now.”

Miami hosts Duke next Saturday. Kickoff is at 12 p.m. ET.

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But there's a game to play between now and if those moves are made. The club's have announced the players they've ruled out. Dallas will once again be without WR Kavontae Turprin and this week sent their second 2025 first-round pick Malachi Lawrence to injured reserve. The Colts will be without LB Akeem Davis-Gaither.

Being that the matchup is between not-in-contention clubs, the majority of the country shouldn't have to watch the contest without some help. But low and behold, it's almost a fully national game.

Game details

• What: Week 9 vs Indianapolis Colts
• When: Sunday, Nov. 8, 12 noon CT
• Where: Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, IN
• Cowboys lead all-time series 11-6
• Cowboys won the last meeting, 54-19 in December 2022 and have won four of the last five.

What channel is Cowboys vs Colts on today?

• RED: Dallas @ IndianapolisAdam Amin, Drew Brees
• BLUE: NY Giants at PhiladelphiaJoe Davis, Greg Olsen
• GREEN: LA Rams @ WashingtonChris Meyers, Marh Schlereth

If you're in the red, you get to watch the Cowboys-Cardinals on your local FOX station.

• Listen (Local): KRLD-FM 105.3 The Fan in Dallas/Fort WorthListen (Spanish): KVMK-FM 107.5 La Grande in Dallas/Fort WorthFollow on Mobile: Dallas Cowboys App

Streaming options

• FOX Sports App
• Fans can watch live in-market broadcasts at NFL+.
• NFL Sunday Ticket

This article originally appeared on Cowboys Wire: What channel is Cowboys vs. Colts on today? Time, TV schedule to watch Week 9

Adou Thiero finally made his 2026-27 NBA regular-season debut on Friday when the Los Angeles Lakers hosted the Portland Trail Blazers. He had missed their first nine games due to a knee issue, and while he only played seven minutes, he made a decent impact on the game.

He scored two baskets, one on an alley-oop dunk and another on a putback slam, and he also contributed four rebounds and two assists. The Lakers ended up winning 124-118, and coach JJ Redick sounded content with how the second-year forward performed, based on his postgame comments.

“Yeah, I thought his first two defensive possessions, he made mistakes, and then after that, he was awesome,” Redick said. “He literally did everything we asked him to do. He was great on the offensive glass. Even sometimes when we didn’t necessarily get the possession, he was tapping the ball and crashing. I thought the read he made out of the short roll, I think they blitzed three times in the first half, and two of those were against him. He makes the short roll, and he gets the lobs. So, I thought he played a great game. Defensively, [he] was really good in the second half.”

At this point in his career, Thiero can be an energy and hustle player in spot duty for Los Angeles. At 6-foot-7 and 220 pounds, he's arguably the most athletically gifted player on the team, and he also has the ability to be pesky and disruptive on the defensive end.

What was interesting during Friday's game was that Thiero got minutes but forward Jarred Vanderbilt, who had played meaningful minutes in each of the previous five games, never got off the bench.

Thiero missed stretches of action last season due to knee problems. The hope is that his knees will hold up throughout this season so that he can develop into whatever the best version of himself will be.

This article originally appeared on Lakers Wire: JJ Redick praises Adou Thiero's 'awesome' play versus Trail Blazers

In August, Arizona State coaches were so eager to see freshman quarterback Jake Fette that they put him in at the end of the team’s season-opening 70-7 win over Morgan State. Now, Fette is showing exactly why the coaching staff has been raving about him since he arrived in Tempe.

Fette, who took over the starting role after senior Mikey Keene was injured during the Kansas State game on Oct. 24, shined at times in his official home debut in Tempe. In the Nov. 7 win over Colorado, he flashed his athletic ability and made the precision throws that made him a four-star prospect out of Del Valle High School in El Paso.

But first, it was Fette getting things started at wide receiver. 

Out of the Wild Cat formation with running back Cardae Mack at quarterback, Fette split out left and then hauled in a one-yard touchdown pass from Mack to go up 10-0 with 11:15 left in the second quarter. It was the first time that Fette has caught a touchdown pass since he was a junior in high school.

“Oh my gosh, it was crazy,” Fette said. “All week they told me, ‘Be ready. He might throw it late.’ I was like, ‘Ah. I don’t know. He’s going to run it for a touchdown.' And then it actually happened. I didn’t even know what to do. I’m just happy I caught it."

Earlier in the scoring drive, Fette showed off his arm talent with a pinpoint throw to wide receiver Omarion Miller down the right sideline for 33 yards to get inside the red zone. 

Fette placed the ball on Miller’s outside shoulder and hit him in stride.

“The (Omarion) throw really was phenomenal,” said coach Kenny Dillingham. 

Later in the second quarter, on ASU’s next scoring drive, Fette had the throw of the game. Facing a 3rd-and-14, Fette dropped back and connected with wide receiver Reed Harris for a 34-yard touchdown that extended the lead to 17-0 with 2:54 left in the second quarter.

The ball could not have been placed any better, hitting Reed directly in the hands on the right side of the end zone near the sideline.

“The Reed throw was perfectly over the shoulder in that scenario on a third down — critical play,” said Dillingham.

Fette is the first ASU quarterback since Jake Plummer (UCLA, Oct. 12, 1996) to have a receiving and passing touchdown in the same game.

The Tide improved to 7-2 (5-2 SEC), and with results elsewhere, are now right back in a tie in the loss column for a spot in the SEC title game. Alabama also dealt a crushing blow to LSU's College Football Playoff (CFP) hopes by dealing the Tigers a third loss.

It was basically a must-win game for Alabama, and the Tide did what they had to do to win it. Here are three takeaways from Alabama's huge road win.

Alabama's bend-don't-break defense

It is not often that a team is outgained 457-285 and have less than half as many first downs as your opponent, and yet you win by 18. That's what happened on Saturday for Alabama though. And a lot of it had to do with their defense bending, but not breaking and making plays when they had to keep LSU out of the end zone.

LSU had two turnover on downs inside the Alabama 10-yard line, and settled for a field goal on another trip inside the Tide's 10. LSU made it to inside the Alabama 40-yard line on eight of their 10 drives, but mustered just the one touchdown and two field goals. A big reason for that is that LSU was 0-for-4 on fourth down. Alabama's defense made plays when plays needed to be made.

Ryan Coleman-Williams makes plays in return

Ryan Coleman-Williams returned from injury on Saturday and made a couple key plays. His biggest play came in the fourth quarter on a punt return. LSU was punting with Alabama ahead 17-13, and Coleman-Williams sprung loose for a 32-yard return which set up a one play touchdown drive on a 25-yard pass to Cedarian Morgan which pushed Alabama's lead to 24-13. He also scored earlier in the game on an end-around in which LSU lost him. In the passing game, he ended up with just two catches for 14 yards, but he made his impact felt.

Alabama proves CFP committee right

Most of the talk surrounding Alabama this week was about their ranking in the initial CFP committee rankings in which they were ranked No. 5, a spot most felt was too-high. With all of that noise, Alabama responded with a big win over a top 15 team in LSU. This win puts Alabama in a great spot when it comes to the playoffs, but also potentially quiets some of the noise surrounding their ranking and arguably proved the committee correct in their bullishness on the Tide.

Contact/Follow us @RollTideWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Alabama news, notes and opinion.

This article originally appeared on Roll Tide Wire: 3 takeaways from Alabama's crucial road win vs. LSU

FC Barcelona heads to the Spanish capital on Sunday for a showdown with Atlético Madrid, but it will do it without one of its marquee summer signings.

Rodri won't make the trip for the match, with Barcelona forced to replace the midfielder. Barca tops the table on goal difference, with Real Madrid drawing level on 30 points.

A win against third-place Atleti would put the Balugrana back into sole possession of first place, while a draw or defeat would see both Madrid clubs buoyed by the chance of a true title race.

What did Barcelona's statement say about Rodri's injury?

The club noted that Rodri felt something off in Barcelona's 3-0 UEFA Champions League win over Aston Villa during the week. He exited the contest at halftime, with scans showing he suffered an injury to his right hamstring.

COMUNICADO MÉDICO

El jugador del primer equipo Rodrigo Hernández se ha sometido a unas pruebas médicas a raíz de las molestias musculares que notó en el partido de ayer contra el Aston Villa.

Las pruebas confirman que sufre una pequeña lesión en el bíceps femoral de la pierna… pic.twitter.com/xSGi9McmVj

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona_es) November 4, 2026

In addition to missing the trip to face Atleti, Rodri may miss additional matches depending on how the injury heals.

How to watch Atletico Madrid vs. FC Barcelona

• When: Sunday, November 8
• Where: Metropolitano Stadium(Madrid, Spain)
• Time: 3 p.m. ET
• Channel/streaming: ESPN/ESPN Deportes (Watch on ESPN+)

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Why is Rodri not playing for FC Barcelona vs. Atletico Madrid?

We're 90 minutes away from the Atlanta Falcons and the Cincinnati Bengals' Week 9 matchup in Madrid, Spain, and both teams have officially announced their inactives list for today's game. The Falcons won't have starting kick returner Zachariah Branch or defensive back Billy Bowman Jr.

Branch has a hamstring injury and was ruled out by head coach Kevin Stefanski on Monday. Look for veteran wide receiver Olamide Zaccheaus to fill in for Branch. James Pearce Jr. returned to the team this week following his eight-game suspension for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy.

Pearce suffered a back injury during Friday's practice and was downgraded to questionable for Sunday's game. However, the star edge rusher is active. Pearce led the team with 10.5 sacks last season.

Check out the Falcons and Bengals' inactives lists for today's game in Madrid, Spain.

Falcons inactives list:

1. WR Zachariah Branch
2. QB Andy Dalton (Emergency 3rd QB)
3. QB Jack Strand
4. DB Billy Bowman Jr.
5. DB Robert Longerbeam
6. DE Drake Jackson

Bengals inactives list:

1. S Kyle Dugger
2. C Connor Lew
3. OT Myles Hinton
4. DT Landon Robinson

Sunday's game kicks off at 9:30 a.m. ET at Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid, Spain.

In the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft, the Washington Commanders selected wide receiver Antonio Williams out of college and right now, that is paying dividends as they try to stay in the NFC East playoff race.

Through the first seven games of the season, Williams leads the Commanders in receiving yards with 259, but only has one touchdown. Veteran Stefon Diggs leads Washington in receiving touchdowns with five and was highly complimentary of the Commanders’ rookie, saying he plays like a veteran.

“Just a young kid playing well. I feel like, he plays like he’s been in the league for a couple years and he’s taking advantage of his opportunities,” Diggs said. “Definitely something to keep an eye out for. For us, we kind of saw it all camp and all offseason. I see him in practice all the time, so it’s no surprise to me. So, I’ll just be happy for him when he starts hooping.”

Washington will be looking for both Diggs and Williams to step up in the Commanders’ next game against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday. The Commanders are 2-4-1, looking for their second straight win after a 17-point victory over the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday Night Football. Meanwhile, the Rams are looking for their third win of the season.

This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Commanders' Stefon Diggs loves what he's seen from rookie Antonio Williams

Arkansas led Auburn, 10-3, and outgained the Tigers, 176-109 in the first half. Auburn then boatraced the Razorbacks by outgaining them, 254-176, over the final 30 minutes to grab the 26-23 win.

Silverfield cited offensive miscues that led to Auburn recording eight tackles for loss and five sacks in the second half, and Arkansas's inability to slow Brown down.

"The quarterback is one of the most experienced in the country, clearly the most experienced in the SEC, and played like it in the second half, and we didn’t find a way to stop him," Silverfield said of Brown postgame.

Silverfield went on to point out the difference in his team's production from the first half to the second. The Arkansas head coach was pleased with his team's efforts in the first half, but felt much was left on the table with two punts, an interception, and a missed field goal keeping the Razorbacks from creating separation from Auburn before halftime.

“When you look at what we did defensively, proud of that effort, the first half, they were really clean; we were able to wrap up, get off the field on third down and do a lot of great things," Silverfield said. "Offensively, we did some decent stuff in the first half, obviously, which we could have capitalized a little bit more, so it wasn’t just a 10-3 ball game going into the half."

With the loss to Auburn, Arkansas is 3-6 and 1-5 in SEC play with three games remaining. Its remaining slate features games against three ranked opponents: South Carolina, Texas, and LSU.

Endicott Mayor Nick Burlingame announced Nov. 6 that the village would be signing a management contract with Troon, a prominent golf-management company that owns and manages hundreds courses across the globe.

The announcement comes after years of controversy between the village and county centering around the golf course's outdated irrigation system — which the county claimed could jeopardize the future of the Dick's Open in Endicott.

How village, county reached impasse on En-Joie

Originally, the course was purchased by the Village of Endicott in the 1960s and it has remained a village-owned golf course ever since. Since 2024, the course has been embroiled in controversy after a Broome County press conference sparked concerns about the course's irrigation system.

According to studies from both Broome County and the village, the course's outdated irrigation system is due for a replacement, which could cost up to $8 million and take years to complete. According to Broome County Executive Jason Garnar, the only way for the county to assist with the repair project is to assume ownership of the course from the village.

On Nov. 6, Burlingame said the village had attempted to negotiate with the county and consider selling the golf course, but the county had insisted it would not pay for the ownership transfer — a non-negotiable sticking point for the village, which Burlingame said required some return on investment from the course's original purchase.

Since 2006, the county has been deeply embedded with the course, functioning as its managing entity while the village retains ownership.

Amid the drama, the village initiated a Request for Proposals for management companies to run the course, a course of action the county refused to join. The village also requested a one-year extension of the county's management of the course, which ends after 2026 — an offer the county declined.

For now, the course has an agreement with the PGA Tour Champions to host the Dick's Open at least through the 2029 season. In July, Dick's Open Tournament Director John Karedes called the situation urgent due to the project's scale and required construction time — which could take more than a year.

Troon to take over management of En-Joie Golf Club

According to Burlingame, Troon was selected following the RFP process, which resulted in four competitive proposals being submitted. Troon, an Arizona-based company, provides services to more than 45 states and 40 countries.

Specifically, the course will be managed by the company's Northeast division, Indigo Sports. The company will manage En-Joie starting in 2027, with the contract running for five years.

According to Vice President of Operations Christopher Strand, all current En-Joie employees will receive offers from Troon to continue their work on the golf course.

With Troon's takeover of golf course management, funding the irrigation system's replacement is now the responsibility of the Village of Endicott. According to Burlingame, the village plans to use grant funding to pay for the replacement — and has already begun seeking grants.

Burlingame said the system's replacement will be completed in phases, with the first phase requiring a different water source, instead of drawing from Endicott's already-strained sole water source. The second phase of the project will consist of below-ground work and the system's physical replacement, which Burlingame and Strand said Troon has extensive experience with, and will be able to assist on.

Strand also said the irrigation system's replacement will not cause problems for golfers, who will be able to continue golfing throughout the project.

"We'll certainly help the village through all these processes and go through the systems," Strand said. "We have experts and teams going through all that. We do it on all sorts of courses across the country, and it's less invasive to the golf course than anyone might think. We'll be able to keep play going throughout the entire process."

Regardless, Burlingame said the village does not foresee needing to use tax dollars to replace the irrigation system, instead relying on outside funding through grants.

"We're not anticipating an increase in taxes at this time," Burlingame said. "This first year will be the hardest. It's got the most capital improvements, just getting the course running. It will certainly be a little challenging this year, but we're confident that even this year, we should be net positive."

Burlingame said that in total, there will be at least a three-year wait to begin the irrigation system's replacement — a fact he said would not change regardless of course ownership. Burlingame also noted the long timeline may benefit the village, giving more time to secure grant funding.

"Our visions are aligned — we want this course to be exceptional," said Burlingame. "Not only for our players, but also for the Dick's Sporting Goods Open, and they will do everything in their power to keep it here, and we will do everything in our power to keep it here."

Broome County responds to En-Joie management contract

Hours after the Nov. 6 press conference, a statement released by Garnar claimed taxpayers could suffer greatly due to the irrigation system's replacement. In addition to taxpayer concerns, Garnar said the decision could put the course's future in jeopardy — a situation he blamed on the village's alleged lack of effort to resolve the situation.

"Now village taxpayers could face a massive tax increase to replace the system themselves, or the Village could decide not to replace it at all," said Garnar. "Either way, the future of En-Joie and the DICK'S Sporting Goods Open is being put at risk."

Garnar questioned why "Endicott plans to pay an out-of-town private company nearly $3 million to manage the course when Broome County managed it for free for the past 20 years."

"At the end of the day, En-Joie belongs to Endicott, and this is the Village's decision. But the people of Endicott deserve answers about why our offer to fund the irrigation system wasn't pursued and why taxpayers are now being asked to pay millions for private management," Garnar said.

"Broome County will work to ensure an orderly transition over the next seven weeks. We were willing to help protect En-Joie, and I believe the community deserves to know why that opportunity wasn't taken.”

According to Burlingame, the village would have preferred to continue management agreements with the county, but was not prepared to give up ownership of the golf course.

"It was definitely a comfortable situation for us, and we tried to extend the agreement, but the county would not extend the agreement without a commitment of ownership," said Burlingame. "That was not something the village was prepared to do."

This article originally appeared on Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin: Troon to begin managing controversy-laden host course of PGA Tour Champions event

LAS VEGAS – Fighters from Saturday's UFC Fight Night 293 event took home UFC Promotional Guidelines Compliance pay totaling $181,500.

The program, a comprehensive plan that includes outfitting requirements, media obligations and other items under the fighter code of conduct, replaces the previous payments made under the UFC Athlete Outfitting Policy.

UFC Fight Night 293 took place at Meta APEX. The entire card streamed on Paramount+.

The full UFC Fight Night 293 UFC Promotional Guidelines Compliance payouts included:

Johnny Walker: $16,000 def. Waldo Cortes Acosta: $11,000

Tatiana Suarez: $11,000 def. Virna Jandiroba: $11,000

Elijah Smith: $4,500 def. Davey Grant: $16,000

Lucas Fernando: $4,000 def. Billy Elekana: $4,500

Nina Milosevic: $4,000 def. Priscila Cachoeira: $11,000

Mitch Raposo: $4,500 def. Marcos Degli: $4,000

Ollie Schmid: $4,000 def. Keiichiro Nakamura: $4,000

Thomas Petersen: $6,000 def. Gabriel Lorenco: $4,000

Karine Silva: $6,000 def. Gabriella Fernandes: $6,000

Murtazali Magomedov: $4,000 def. Jose Delano: $4,000

Austin Bashi: $4,500 def. Carlos Calderon: $4,000

Andre Petroski: $11,000 def. Mantas Kondratavicius: $4,000

Seokhyeon Ko: $4,500 def. Wellington Turman: $6,000

Jose Souza: $4,000 def. Jonny Parsons: $4,000

Under the UFC Promotional Guidelines Compliance program's payout tiers, which appropriate the money generated by Venum's multi-year sponsorship with the UFC, fighters are paid based on their total number of UFC bouts, as well as Zuffa-era WEC fights (January 2007 and later) and Zuffa-era Strikeforce bouts (April 2931 and later). Fighters with 1-3 bouts receive $4,000 per appearance; 4-5 bouts get $4,500; 6-10 bouts get $6,000; 11-15 bouts earn $11,000; 16-20 bouts pocket $16,000; and 21 bouts and more get $21,000. Additionally, champions earn $42,000 while title challengers get $32,000.

In addition to experience-based pay, UFC fighters will receive in perpetuity royalty payments amounting to 20-30 percent of any UFC merchandise sold that bears their likeness, according to officials.

Full 2026 UFC Promotional Guidelines Compliance payouts:

• "UFC Fight Night 293: Cortes Acosta vs. Walker" – $181,500
• "UFC Fight Night 292: Moicano vs. Nolan" – $188,500
• "UFC 333: Volkanovski vs. Evloev" – $314,500
• "UFC Fight Night 291: Buckley vs. Malott" – $186,500
• "UFC Fight Night 290: Allen vs. Duncan" – $199,500
• "UFC 332: Silva vs. Wang" – $299,500
• "UFC Fight Night 289: Rosas Jr. vs. Barcelos" – $151,000
• "UFC 331: Van vs. Pantoja 2" – $270,500
• "UFC Fight Night 288: Silva vs. Delgado" – $244,000
• "UFC Fight Night 287: Hooker vs. Parnasse" – $185,500
• "UFC Fight Night 286: Nurmagomedov vs. Song" – $164,500
• "UFC Fight Night 285: Hernandez vs. Rodrigues" – $181,000
• "UFC 330: Makhachev vs. Machado Garry" – $327,000
• "UFC Fight Night 284: Gamrot vs. Salkilld" – $165,500
• "UFC Fight Night 283: Medic vs. Rodriguez" – $192,000
• "UFC Fight Night 282: Ankalaev vs. Guskov" – $160,500
• "UFC Fight Night 281: Du Plessis vs. Usman" – $151,500
• "UFC 329: McGregor vs. Holloway 2" – $275,000
• "UFC Fight Night 280: Fiziev vs. Torres" – $162,000
• "UFC Fight Night 279: Kape vs. Horiguchi 2" – $168,000
• "UFC Freedom 250: Topuria vs. Gaethje" – $241,500
• "UFC Fight Night 278: Muhammad vs. Bonfim" – $194,000
• "UFC Fight Night 277: Song vs. Figueiredo" – $215,000
• "UFC Fight Night 276: Allen vs. Costa" – $167,000
• "UFC 328: Chimaev vs. Strickland" – $371,000
• "UFC Fight Night 275: Della Maddalena vs. Prates" – $188,500
• "UFC Fight Night 274: Sterling vs. Zalal" – $239,500
• "UFC Fight Night 273: Burns vs. Malott" – $176,500
• "UFC 327: Prochazka vs. Ulberg" – $312,000
• "UFC Fight Night 272: Moicano vs. Duncan" – $151,500
• "UFC Fight Night 271: Adesanya vs. Pyfer" – $239,000
• "UFC Fight Night 270: Evloev vs. Murphy" – $137,000
• "UFC Fight Night 269: Emmett vs. Vallejos" – $238,500
• "UFC 326: Holloway vs. Oliveira 2" – $261,000
• "UFC Fight Night 268: Moreno vs. Kavanagh" – $175,000
• "UFC Fight Night 267: Strickland vs. Hernandez" – $207,500
• "UFC Fight Night 266: Bautista vs. Oliveira" – $206,500
• "UFC 325: Volkanovski vs. Lopes 2" – $234,000
• "UFC 324: Gaethje vs. Pimblett" – $269,500

Year-to-date total: $8,475,500

2025 total: $8,441,500

2024 total: $8,280,500

2023 total: $8,131,000

2022 total: $8,351,500

2021 total: $6,167,500

Program-to-date total: $47,593,500

This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: UFC Fight Night 293 Promotional Guidelines Compliance pay: Two get highest payout of $16,000

Baker Mayfield's best play Sunday was a block.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback went 0 for 3 through the air in a driving rain at Raymond James Stadium. That's zero completions and minus-2 net passing yards after a sack. The Bucs shut out the Atlanta Falcons 16-0 anyway, running for a franchise-record 324 yards. Bucky Irving had 170 of them and Kenneth Gainwell had 140.

Nobody had won an NFL game without completing a pass since the 1974 Buffalo Bills.

"If I'm not gonna throw the ball, I have to get active somehow," Mayfield said.

Next up is Soldier Field in November.

The Chicago Bears are going for a prime-time hat trick. They beat the New England Patriots 30-24 on a Thursday night. Then they flew to Seattle and beat the defending Super Bowl champion Seahawks 34-17 on Monday night. No team had ever beaten both of the previous season's Super Bowl teams in back-to-back weeks.

Caleb Williams completed 24 of 34 passes for 247 yards against one of the league's stingiest defenses. Jeffery Simmons, a Bear for all of four days after a trade with the Tennessee Titans, had a sack on the opening drive.

Chicago is 6-2 for the first time since 2012.

WASHINGTON — A grueling nonconference schedule for Arkansas basketball hits its first major road block this weekend in the nation's capital.

The No. 13 Razorbacks (1-0) face No. 10 Virginia (2-0) Sunday, Nov. 8. It will be a homecoming for Jordan Smith Jr. and Cooper Bowser, who both grew up in the DMV area.

This will also be a first test for a young Hogs roster. A rotation filled with seven freshmen will play its first game on national television and meet an opponent with Final Four aspirations. The Cavaliers won 30 games last year in Ryan Odom's first season as head coach. They lost to Tennessee in the Round of 32 of the NCAA Tournament.

After a high-ankle sprain sent him to injured reserve for a month, Coleman returned with a bang, rushing for 41 yards and a go-ahead touchdown in a 28-24 win over the Kansas City Chiefs, while adding 4 catches for 63 yards in the win over quarterback Patrick Mahomes and their AFC West rivals.

With second-year back RJ Harvey now on injured reserve with a knee injury, Coleman also got a chance to show off his understanding of pass protection, which was a big selling point of his development during his time under Jedd Fisch and running backs coach Scottie Graham.

Sean Payton on Jonah Coleman’s rookie year: pic.twitter.com/etMqrmRrp4

— Parker Gabriel (@ParkerJGabriel) November 4, 2026

"The one thing that was unique about him is, oftentimes you don't get to see (rookies) in third-down protection plans, but he was someone that we had quite a bit of tape on," Payton told the media on Monday. "Advanced protection plans, and he's built to handle the blitz. It's one thing to know who I have, but then also to be strong enough to do it."

"You don't get to stamp that with a lot of rookie backs that you feel like they're going to develop into. We saw enough that we felt like he was going to be a good third-down protecting back as well, with the way he was built."

As Coleman continues to pick up steam, he'll have an opportunity to build on his success against the No. 30-ranked run defense in the NFL when the Broncos take on the Carolina Panthers on Sunday.

This article originally appeared on Huskies Wire: Sean Payton praises Jonah Coleman's advanced development at Washington

England and Australia resume their Nations Championship campaigns as the two sides meet at Twickenham’s Allianz Stadium.

Steve Borthwick’s side bounced back from an opening defeat to South Africa in July with wins over Fiji and Argentina, but must build on that momentum into a crucial campaign with a year to go until the World Cup.

• LIVE: Follow all of the latest from a crucial clash between England and Australia

They face a tricky opening test, though, with the Wallabies having showcased their attacking threat particularly throughout this year and having had the benefit of plenty of time together.

They may spy a vulnerable England, though, with Borthwick’s squad this week forced to come out fighting for their head coach after a report claimed that he had lost the faith of his player in July.

Here’s everything you need to know.

When is England vs Australia?

England vs Australia is due to kick off at 3.10pm GMT on Sunday 8 November at Allianz Stadium in Twickenham.

How can I watch it?

Viewers in the United Kingdom can watch every game of the Nations Championship live on ITV’s channels and ITVX.

Team news

England welcome back all of Fin Baxter, Ben Curry and George Furbank following long lay-offs with injury, while Maro Itoje returns to captain the side having been rested in July. The less experienced of the Curry twins is included with brother Tom ruled out, while Ollie Chessum continues in the back row.

There are six forwards on the bench, including a potential debutant in Greg Fisilau. Marcus Smith provides fly-half cover after Fin Smith won his race to be fit to start.

England XV: 1 Fin Baxter, 2 Jamie George, 3 Joe Heyes; 4 Maro Itoje (capt.), 5 Alex Coles; 6 Ollie Chessum, 7 Ben Curry, 8 Ben Earl; 9 Jack van Poortvliet, 10 Fin Smith; 11 Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, 12 Seb Atkinson, 13 Henry Slade, 14 Tommy Freeman; 15 George Furbank.

Replacements: 16 Luke Cowan-Dickie, 17 Ellis Genge, 18 Will Stuart, 19 George Martin, 20 Greg Fisilau, 21 Henry Pollock; 22 Ben Spencer, 23 Marcus Smith.

Australia also opt for a lock on the flank, with Jeremy Williams improving their lineout options and graft around the park. Declan Meredith is preferred to Ben Donaldson at fly half, while Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii is again deployed on the wing.

Rob Valetini strengthens a bench with plenty of strike-running threat.

Australia XV: 1 Angus Bell, 2 Billy Pollard, 3 Allan Alaalatoa; 4 Josh Canham, 5 Lukhan Salakaia-Loto; 6 Jeremy Williams, 7 Fraser McReight, 8 Harry Wilson (capt.); 9 Ryan Lonergan, 10 Declan Meredith; 11 Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, 12 Len Ikitau, 13 Isaac Henry, 14 Max Jorgensen; 15 Tom Wright.

Replacements: 16 Josh Nasser, 17 Isaac Kailea, 18 Taniela Tupou, 19 Rob Valetini, 20 Carlo Tizzano; 21 Tate McDermott, 22 Ben Donaldson, 23 Filipo Daugunu.

Look, we get it. Your days are busy, and you don’t have time to read all of the stories and tweets from the three dozen websites dedicated to covering Ohio State athletics, or the 237 Buckeye beat writers churning out hot takes and #content on a daily basis. But that’s ok; that’s what your friends at Land-Grant Holy Land are here for.

Monday through Friday, we’ll be collecting all of the articles, tweets, features, interviews, videos, podcasts, memes, photos, and whatever else we stumble across on the interwebz and putting them in our daily “Why is this News?” article. That way, you’ll have a one-stop shop for all of the most important Buckeye news, jokes, and analysis.

You’re welcome!

Recapping Ohio State’s 41-28 loss to Oregon

Ohio State’s 41-28 loss to Oregon is latest unacceptable failure
Matt Tamanini, Land-Grant Holy Land

Buckeyes Drop Home Contest to Oregon
Ohio State Athletics

Ohio State stunned in 41-28 loss to Oregon. See how it unfolded
Lori Schmidt, Dan Aulbach, Joey Kaufman, Brianna Mac Kay, Rob Oller, Brian White; The Columbus Dispatch

With its ‘backs against the wall,’ Ohio State melts down in loss to Oregon
Bill Landis, The Bill & Doug Show

Desperate Oregon comes into Ohio Stadium, defeats Ohio State 41-28
Steve Helwagen, Bucknuts

What on earth, Ohio State? Preseason No. 1’s Playoff hopes crater in shambolic loss to Oregon
Cameron Teague Robinson and Sam Khan Jr., The Athletic

Ohio State Falls to Oregon, 41-28, in Massive Blow to Buckeyes’ College Football Playoff Hopes
Dan Hope, Eleven Warriors

Ohio State collapses once more in 41-28 loss to Oregon
Allison Wolfe, The Lantern

#23 Oregon Football Stuns #12 Ohio State
Badwater, Addicted to Quack

News from Ohio State’s 41-28 loss to Oregon

Everything Ohio State’s Ryan Day said after a 41-28 loss to Oregon
Lori Schmidt, The Columbus Dispatch

Presser Bullets: Ryan Day Says Ohio State Has to “Evaluate Everything” and Losing Three Games is “Unacceptable”
Dan Hope, Eleven Warriors

Ohio State coach struggles to explain blowout home loss to Oregon
Steve Helwagen, Bucknuts

Ryan Day will evaluate everything, but Ohio State is out of time to fix this season’s issues
Spencer Holbrook, Lettermen Row

Insider Updates: Ryan Day, Buckeyes Attempt to Explain Disastrous Loss to Oregon
Tony Gerdeman, Buckeye Insiders

Unfamiliar Territory: Ohio State’s Losing Streak Reaches Back to the Tressel and Cooper Eras
11W Stats, Eleven Warriors

The most interesting thing Ryan Day said after a blowout loss to Oregon; why it matters for Ohio State
Patrick Murphy, Bucknuts

Jeremiah Smith Breaks Ohio State Record For Most Games With Over 100 Receiving Yards
Lyle Alenstein, Eleven Warriors

Oregon Coach Dan Lanning Says the Fake Punt Gave His Team a Chance to “Settle In,” and Calls Jeremiah Smith “As Good As Anybody”
Josh Poloha, Eleven Warriors

Analyzing Ohio State’s 41-28 loss to Oregon

Ryan Day should resign from his position tonight
Gene Ross, Land-Grant Holy Land

5 things we learned from Ohio State’s loss to Oregon
Joey Kaufman, The Columbus Dispatch

10 Ohio State postgame thoughts from the gut
Doug Lesmerises, The Bill & Doug Show

Quick Takes: Ohio State fails to match Oregon’s intensity, playmaking in crushing home loss
Steve Helwagen, Bucknuts

First thoughts: Ohio State completely embarrassed at home by Oregon
Spencer Holbrook, Lettermen Row

Ohio State postgame reaction: Jeremiah Smith on the field after the loss, postgame interviews
Doug Lesmerises, The Bill & Doug Show

No. 12 Ohio State gives up 38 unanswered points, blown out by No. 23 Oregon on home turf
Reilly Cahill, The Lantern

First Thoughts: Oregon 41, Ohio State 28
Marcus Hartman, Buckeye Insider

Postgame Analysis: Ohio State embarrassed at home by Oregon
Connor Smith, Buckeye Huddle

How Oregon exposed Ohio State’s growing defensive problem
Joey Kaufman, The Columbus Dispatch

Proof Points From Ohio State’s Embarrassing Loss to Oregon
Josh Poloha, Eleven Warriors

Three-and-out: Ohio State’s season, program at inflection after getting blown out by Oregon
Alex Gleitman, Lettermen Row

Who’s to blame for Ohio State’s stunted offense vs Oregon?
Brianna MacKay, The Columbus Dispatch

Ohio State Was Too Reliant on Julian Sayin, And Its Season Has Gone Sideways As A Result
Dan Hope, Eleven Warriors

Where does Ohio State turn following mid-season collapse?
Spencer Holbrook, Lettermen Row

Looking at the performances from Ohio State’s 41-28 loss to Oregon

All-Around Poor Play Plagued Ohio State Again In Its Loss vs. Oregon
Lyle Alenstein, Eleven Warriors

Luke Fahey loses his way as Ohio State fails to capitalize on early Dylan Raiola mistakes and gets blown out in a backup QB battle
Doug Lesmerises, The Bill & Doug Show

Everything Ohio State did this offseason was wrong. And it falls on Ryan Day
Cameron Teague Robinson, The Athletic

Ohio State’s Ryan Day defends Luke Fahey after Oregon game
Connor Smith, Buckeye Huddle

Oregon Wins the Middle Eight, 21-0, to Turn 11-Point Deficit Into 10-Point Lead vs. Ohio State
Dan Hope, Eleven Warriors