FSU came out strong and took a 21-6 lead in the second quarter, but could not keep it going as the Crimson Tide battled back and scored 20 unanswered points in the second quarter to take a halftime lead. They wore Tony White's defense down and scored on their final nine drives of the game, something that has FSU's fans ready for a change.

The Seminoles have now lost their last 10 road games under Norvell and their last 11 games overall away from Doak Campbell Stadium. They have not been much better at home, going 8-19 overall and 3-17 in conference play under Norvell since the start of the 2024 season.

Their performance has been well below FSU's standards, but it will be expensive to move on from Norvell. According to Craig Myers of USA TODAY Sports, his buyout is $46.7 million if he is fired before Dec. 1, 2026. That would be the third-biggest in college football history if they decide to make the move, something they may have to do if the losses keep piling up.

The only two bigger buyouts were the $76.8 million the Texas A&M Aggies paid Jimbo Fisher and the $54 million the LSU Tigers paid Brian Kelly. The Seminoles paid Willie Taggart $18 million when they fired him during the 2019 season, setting up the Norvell hire.

It will not be getting any easier for FSU moving forward. While they have the FCS Central Arkansas Bears next week, their three games after that could be against ranked opponents. First, they will host the No. 25 Virginia Cavaliers before playing the Louisville Cardinals and No. 5 Miami Hurricanes on the road.

Follow us @FSUWire on X and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Florida State news, notes, and opinions.

This article originally appeared on FSU Wire: How much would it cost FSU to fire Mike Norvell?

BLOOMINGTON — Indiana football receiver Nick Marsh was back in the starting lineup for the No. 4 Hoosiers (3-0) on Saturday in a 38-0 win over Western Kentucky.

The Michigan State transfer had his best game as a Hoosier too.

Marsh nearly matched his production through the first two games with seven catches for 81 yards. He was targeted a team-high 10 times and would've had an even bigger day if quarterback Josh Hoover hadn't over thrown him on a wide-open vertical route down the sideline at the end of the first half.

The breakout performance came after he sat out the first series against Howard last week.

At the time, Indiana football coach Curt Cignetti told reporters he started Shazz Preston over Marsh in hopes of getting the Tulane transfer more reps, but he offered a bit of a different rationale after Saturday night's shutout victory over the Hilltoppers.

"I mean, he didn't start last week, there was a reason," Cignetti said of Marsh. "And then, we didn't really decide until yesterday who would start there."

More: How Indiana football QB Josh Hoover found his way back to Bloomington

There are some fights that just redefine what tenacity and grit are in mixed martial arts.

The first fight of UFC 331’s main card on Saturday night featured Alonzo Menifield taking on the undefeated Iwo Baraniewski in a light heavyweight bout.

Menifield came out of the fray victorious by split decision, but he was not unscathed. It was revealed that he suffered a total compound fracture of his left thumb…

…in the first round.

The following video is graphic.

The fighter persevered through the pain, fighting two more rounds despite the injury. The live-stream audience didn’t even know there was an injury until a medical stoppage between the second and third rounds, when the referee noticed it and alerted the doctor.

After he was medically checked, Menifield continued to reassure them that he was fine to keep going, and he finished the fight, despite the audience and color commentators wincing every time he used his left hand.

The win moves Menifield to 19-6-1. He came into this fight off of a first-round knockout victory over Zhang Mingyang. The light heavyweight competitor was ranked No. 14 heading into Saturday and could be in line for a top-10 divisional bout, once his thumb fully heals.

Baraniewski, the heavy favorite in this fight, suffered the first loss of his UFC career. He is now 9-1-0, and this was also the first fight of his professional career that went past the first round.

This was the third fight that Baraniewski had this calendar year. Previously, he beat Austen Lane in March and Junior Tafa in June, both by first-round knockout.

Check out complete UFC 331 results, highlights and round-by-round updates here.

Ciryl Gane seeks heavyweight immortality when he takes on the undefeated Josh Hokit in the UFC 334 main event, while the legendary Amanda Nunes officially returns to challenge Kayla Harrison.

During Saturday’s UFC 331 broadcast, the top two fights for the Nov. 14 event at Madison Square Garden in New York were officially announced. Gane vs. Hokit headlines with Gane (14-2, 1 NC), the newly promoted undisputed heavyweight champion taking on Hokit (10-0), one of MMA’s breakout stars. Gane earned undisputed status after Tom Aspinall vacated the belt due to ongoing eye issues resulting from injuries suffered in his no-contest against Gane this past October.

In the co-main event, a previously scheduled contest between bantamweight champion Harrison (19-1) and the returning Nunes (23-5) has been re-booked. The former American Top Team teammates were first expected to fight at UFC 324 this past January, but Harrison was forced to withdraw due to undergoing neck surgery.

Gane became a two-time interim champion with a knockout over Alex Pereira at UFC White House. UFC CEO Dana White said in an interview that Gane would not be elevated from interim to undisputed status without fighting again, but according to the official graphic and the live broadcast, Gane enters UFC 334 as the undisputed heavyweight champion.

The brash Hokit has rapidly risen in the UFC’s heavyweight division, going 4-0 since being signed off of the Contender Series in 2025. He is coming off of three wins in six months, including a one-sided knockout over Derrick Lewis at UFC White House and a Fight of the Year brawl against Curtis Blaydes at UFC 327.

Harrison seeks her first title defense after winning the bantamweight belt via second-round submission over Julianna Peña at UFC 316. Prior to joining the UFC, Harrison was a two-time PFL tournament champion at 155 pounds and became the first woman to win Olympic gold in judo, doing so at both the 2012 London and 2016 Rio de Janeiro games.

She now finally gets the chance to face Nunes, widely considered to be the best fighter in women’s MMA history. “The Lioness” previously held UFC titles at 145 and 135 pounds, winning 14 of her past 15 fights before stepping away from competition in 2023. Her lone loss during that stretch was a shocking submission defeat at the hands of Peña, but Nunes earned her revenge in an immediate rematch at UFC 277, where she won a dominant five-round decision.

Three other bouts were made official for the main card, check out the updated UFC 333 lineup below.

Ciryl Gane vs. Josh Hokit

Kayla Harrison vs. Amanda Nunes

Caio Borralho vs. Yousri Belgaroui

Uros Medic vs. Kevin Holland

Bilal Hasan vs. Luis Gurule

Alonzo Menifield suffered one of the most gruesome thumb injuries we’ve ever seen during a decision win over Iwo Baraniewski earlier tonight (Sat., Sept. 19, 2026) at UFC 331 LIVE on Paramount+ from inside Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California.

Most were expecting a classic Baraniewski firefight, but the undefeated Polish fighter came out more technical and showcased a polished striking attack that hurt Menifield late into the first. Menifield survived, though, and forced Baraniewski to see the the first second round of his MMA career.

Menifield came out firing in the second frame and it forced Baraniewski to abandon his technical approach. It was now a 205-pound dog fight and Menifield wouldn’t be denied. Baraniewski was still landing shots, but Menifield ate them up and tired the Polish fighter. The only problem for Menifield was that he had suffered a gnarly broken thumb with bone sticking out. The cageside doctor checked it out entering the third round and let the fight continue.

Menifield, who after his win revealed he suffered the injury in the first round, fought all 15 minutes en route to a split-decision victory. It’s his second-straight win against up-and-coming light heavyweights (Zhang Mingyang being the last).

Check out the nasty thumb injury below:

For complete UFC 331 results, coverage, and highlights click HERE.

The Texas Rangers scored six runs while the Toronto Blue Jays scored two runs.

At the last possible moments, the Rangers appear to have stumbled upon a winning formula.

Over the last week or so we’ve been privy to some victories where the Rangers have scored early, forced the opponent’s hand by scratching and clawing their way on base before threatening small ball chaos, and utilized a string of heroic turns from unsuspecting pitchers who have provided multiple effective innings when forced into duty.

If that’s the key to victory for Texas, they followed the plan to a Texas T tonight. The Rangers indeed scored early when Josh Jung lifted a first inning opposite field solo home run. Not satisfied with just one run, Texas plated two more in the bottom of the second inning when Toronto starter Jose Soriano walked leadoff hitter Wyatt Langford, hit Nicky Lopez, and then saw Langford score via an errant throw by Blue Jays shortstop Andres Gimenez.

Despite having an aching ankle from getting struck by a pitch, Lopez scampered in the score the third run on a Soriano wild pitch.

Those runs felt pivotal for Texas as one out into the second inning Mr. Quality Start Cal Quantrill exited the game with an disquieting injury. I guess carrying the Rangers on his back over the last month or so has finally caught up with the recently-excellent righty. Quantrill had left his previous start with back tightness, but tonight’s early exit was listed as right lat tightness, which isn’t great news for the Rangers going forward.

It wasn’t great news at the time either as the Rangers were suddenly without this summer’s most consistent starter in a crucial game. Former playoff hero Jordan Montgomery was pressed into duty and, like many others over the last week or so, he acquitted himself well. Montgomery entered in a 1-0 game and exited after 3 2/3 innings and 51 pitches having not allowed a hit and with Texas up 3-0.

Another 2023 World Series legend followed Montgomery with Nathan Eovaldi coming in to pitch the sixth. After tossing 46 pitches on Wednesday against Boston, Eovaldi was less effective in his inning of work but he worked around a run to help bridge the bullpen to the late innings.

Like last night, the Rangers took getting scored upon personal as after Toronto made it 3-1, in the next half inning Texas scored three more runs highlighted by a Langford hurdle at home on a sac fly.

With the majority of the game managed by a trio of historically starting pitchers, the actual relievers got to work with Robert Garcia, Chase Silseth, and Jacob Latz combining to allow one run (a seventh inning solo home run off Garcia) as the Rangers maneuvered their way to another victory on this homestand.

And so, for the first time since they were 60-59 back on Aug 10, the Rangers are back above .500. It’s a fine time to do so, too, as because the Houston Astros lost tonight after allowing a seventh inning grand slam to Atlanta, the Rangers are now alone atop the American League West.

Player of the Game: Montgomery has been a bit of an unusual afterthought this season when considering his place among the October 2023 legends, but tonight he left his mark on his second stint with Texas but coming in into an emergency situation and pitching lights while the Rangers were grabbing control of the game.

For his effort, Montgomery was the winning pitcher in a big league game for the first time since Aug 2024 when he was pitching for Arizona.

Up Next: The Rangers close out this series with an opportunity to sweep the Blue Jays with RHP Jacob deGrom set to make the start for Texas against a pitcher to be named for Toronto.

The Sunday afternoon first pitch from The Shed is scheduled for 1:35 pm CDT and will be aired on the Rangers Sports Network.

Confusion filled the air once Tom Aspinall vacated his title due to injury earlier this month. Dana White announced that Gane was not going to be promoted from interim to undisputed UFC champion, but he misspoke. The Frenchman is now the official UFC heavyweight champion and will be making his first defense of the throne against the controversial but incredibly skilled Josh Hokit.

After months of angling for a shot at the title, Hokit has got his wish. He will headline UFC 334 on Saturday, November 14.

The matchup was formally announced during the UFC 331 broadcast, which promises to be a major shakeup in the division.

After Robert Czeremcha's 36-yard field goal for Florida International capped the scoring with 13:28 left in the game, the Panthers turned the ball over on downs on each of their final three drives.

JJ Kohl threw an incomplete pass on fourth-and-4 from the FAU 9 and was sacked on fourth-and-5 near midfield with 2:38 to play. After the Panthers forced a three-and-out with 1:51 remaining, Kohl drove the Panthers to the FAU 17 but then threw three straight incomplete passes to end it.

FAU's Leonard Farrow scored on a 4-yard touchdown run late in the first quarter, two plays after Kohl threw the first of his three interceptions in the opening quarter. Rogers made a 24-yard field goal early in the second, and Kohl scored on a 3-yard run just before halftime to cut the Panthers' deficit to 10-7.

Rogers kicked field goals from 30 and 36 yards in the third quarter.

Caden Veltkamp was 24-of-36 passing for 202 yards without an interception for Florida Atlantic (2-1). Chris Tooley III, Bo Simpson-Nealy and Jonathan Bax each had an interception for the Owls.

Kohl completed 22 of 43 passes for 262 yards for Florida International (1-2).

Up next

Florida International: Home against Long Island on Saturday.

Florida Atlantic: At Louisiana-Monroe on Saturday.

___

Sign up for Top 25 poll alerts here. Visit the Top 25 here and see AP’s full college football coverage here.

Noah Cameron didn’t have his best stuff tonight, but he held things together and the offense just kept chipping away. Jac Caglianone had his first two hits since injuring his arm/elbow and Nick Loftin had his second career four-hit game. In the end, though, the three players acquired from the Rays during the offseason played key roles as the Pirates defeated KC 6-5.

Noah Cameron finished the night allowing 4 runs in 6 innings while striking out 6 and walking 2. Those are very mediocre numbers and represent one of his worst starts since late July. If you had told Royals fans that was how you interpreted this outing sometime any time in June or July they’d have tried to have you committed. But that’s the world we’re living in now. The damage was done primarily on two hits, a pair of two-run homers. The first was by Ronny Simon in the bottom of the second, a switch-hitter who hadn’t hit a dinger in his first 121 at-bats. But Cameron left him a changeup in the middle, and Ronny didn’t miss. Ronny, by the way, was originally signed by the Rays out of the Dominican Republic.

The second home run was hit by tonight’s center fielder, Jake Mangum. Mangum came over in a trade alongside Brandon Lowe and Mason Montgomery from the Rays during the offseason. This pitch was a little better, a backfoot slider that didn’t quite get to the back foot.

The final blow was, what else, a two-run home run by a former Ray. This time it was the aforementioned Lowe banging one to right center off of Steven Cruz. It was the final blow.

The Royals offense was churning for most of the night, despite facing one of the nastiest pitchers in baseball this season. They got one run back quickly in the top of the third when Carter Jensen broke the Royals’ rookie record for home runs in a season.

Carter now takes aim at the record for home runs by a rookie catcher set by Mike Piazza and Rudy York. He’ll only need… 11 more to surpass their total of 35 each. Still, Carter could become the first rookie catcher to lead his team in RBIs since Piazza led the Dodgers in 1993. His 76 leads Salvador Perez by 4 with 7 games left, and the latter only playing part-time.

The Royals answered the Pirates’ home in the fourth by scoring two more of their own in the fifth. Bobby Witt Jr. led off with a single and Jac Caglianone, in his first game back following a one-game suspension for injuring his hand after a bad at-bat Thursday, took a walk to bring the tying run to the plate. The Royals successfully performed a double steal to put runners at second and third with no outs for Vinnie Pasquantino. Vinnie, unfortunately, could only manage a routine grounder to first to score Bobby and advance Jac. That brought up Michael Massey.

Ryan O’Hearn’s acrobatic play cost the Royals a baserunner and who knows what else. Nick Loftin followed that with a single of his own, and John Rave flied out to center to end the inning. If Massey had been on first, it doesn’t take much imagination to see him going to third on Loftin’s single and scoring on a Rave sacrifice fly to tie the game then and there.

Still, by this point, as you can tell from the clip above, the Royals had gotten into the Pirates’ bullpen. That would become important when they turned to Camilo Doval in the seventh inning. Bobby led off again; this time he hit a single off of Doval, but Doval chose to sling it in the general direction of first anyway. That allowed Bobby to go to third. Jac Caglianone added his second single of the night, this one to the opposite field, to score Bob and tie the game. Pasquantino singled, and Jac went all the way to third. Massey struck out, but Loftin came through again with his fourth hit of the night to give the Royals the lead. Unfortunately, Vinnie was stranded at third as Rave and Kyle Isbel each made outs to end the inning.

After Lowe’s home run in the bottom of the eighth, the final piece of that Rays trade from the previous offseason made his appearance. Mason Montgomery is the Pirates closer, and close he was planning to do. For a moment, it seemed like the never-say-die Royals had one last trick up their sleeves. Jac Caglianone took a tough walk – he reached base four times on the night. Tyler Tolbert ran for Jac and stole second, still with no outs. Salvador Perez was batting for Vinnie because Montgomery is a lefty, Salvy battled but struck out. Maikel Garcia pinch-hit for Massey and flew out softly to right. Up came Nick Loftin, looking to re-tie the game and mark his first career five-hit affair. Sadly, he popped out in foul territory on a terrific sliding grab by Pirates catcher Henry Davis.

The Royals fell to 67-88 on the season. They still haven’t won a series in September and have only two chances left. No matter the outcome of tomorrow’s game, they will have had a losing road trip. It’s been a resounding thud of a final month after those sweet couple of weeks at the end of August. Tomorrow’s game is in danger of rain, and with both teams officially eliminated from the playoffs, it’s possible the game is canceled and never made up. However, if it is played, Michael Wacha (3.34 ERA, 4.32 SIERA) will pitch for the Royals. As of this writing, the Pirates have not yet announced their starter. The game will start at 12:35 PM Central Time.

Chelsea were well beaten by Brentford in tonight’s Friday Night Football, with some painful truths becoming clear.

If you enjoy Talk Chelsea coverage and want to see more of it, add us as a preferred source on Google to make us a favourite and see more of our content.

So far this season, Chelsea have looked dangerous in attack, but weak in defence and open in midfield.

So after a surprisingly solid first half against Brentford, we were hopeful. Had we finally found the balance?

As it turns out, no. In the second half we lost all that solidity without gaining back any of our attacking threat. In the end the 3-0 scoreline felt that much worse simply because we’d made it halfway with the scores level.

Chelsea weaknesses shown up by organised Brentford

BRENTFORD, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 18: Cole Palmer of Chelsea reacts during the Premier League 2026/27 match between Brentford and Chelsea FC at Gtech Community Stadium on September 18, 2026 in Brentford, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

Despite some good performances, it’s been noted widely that the early goals we’ve been able to score, while good in themselves, have given us favourable game states in the Premier League this season. Today we saw a game where the opposition didn’t concede early, and didn’t need to open up.

Brentford knew they are strong at set pieces, and we are weak. They patiently played for them, scored from a corner, then had us right where they wanted to pick us off on the break.

Alonso has three weeks now to work with at least some of his players.

In other news…

Alonso brought on Estevao – but only in the 88th minutes, a long time after Geovany Quenda got his chance as first attacking sub off the bench.

Jordan Henderson was the outstanding Chelsea player in the first half, not for doing anything flashy but just for giving this team some calm and control in midfield.

Cincinnati Bengals coach Zac Taylor invoked Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce while discussing Mike Gesicki’s chemistry with quarterback Joe Burrow.

Gesicki led Cincinnati with 78 receiving yards on five catches in its Week 1 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

When conversing about how the veteran finds openings for Burrow, Taylor brought up Kelce.

“It’s very similar to watching (Travis) Kelce,” Taylor said, via Bengals.com. “When you’re watching the tape, you don’t know what the route was that they ran because they just had good chemistry, and Mike is very much that way. We trust him to do it.”

Burrow harped on Gesicki’s feel for the passing game.

“He feels space at an elite level, unlike really anybody that I’ve ever been around,” Burrow said. “He sees it like a quarterback.”

Gesicki also caught a 2-yard touchdown in the opener and has scored three times over his last six games dating back to last season.

There could be another opening waiting in Houston, as Buffalo Bills tight end Dalton Kincaid caught five passes for a career-high 130 yards against the Texans in Week 1.

Gesicki’s 78-yard opener continued a productive trend for Cincinnati, which is now 3-1 in games when he leads the team in receiving yards.

This article originally appeared on Bengals Wire: Bengals TE Mike Gesicki draws Travis Kelce comparison from Zac Taylor

To honor all of the players who wore those numbers over the decades, Rockets Wire is covering the entire history of jersey numbers and the players who wore them since the founding of the team all those years ago right up to the present day.

With seven of those jerseys now retired to honor some of the greatest Rockets of all time to wear those jerseys, there is a lot of history to cover.

And for today's article, we will continue with the second of 14 who wore the No. 32, Don Adams. After ending his college career at Northwestern, Adams was picked up with the 120th overall selection of the 1970 NBA Draft by the (then) San Diego (now, Houston) Rockets.

The Atlanta, Georgia native played the first 2 seasons of his pro career with San Diego, coming to an end when he was dealt to the Atlanta Hawks in 1971.

During his time suiting up for the Rockets, Adams wore only jersey No. 32 and put up 11.2 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game.

All stats and data courtesy of Basketball Reference.

This article originally appeared on Rockets Wire: Houston Rockets jersey history No. 32 - Don Adams (1970-71)

The Golden State Warriors have taken many of their top stars through the draft, but have also landed a number of notable players over the years as well. From tiny colleges to blue blood programs, these alumni have contributed significantly to the team's roster over the years. So, we chose to take a closer look at which Dubs came from which schools over the years.

So without further ado, let's take a look at every player who has been drafted by the Warriors out of VCU.

Ren Watson - forward

Draft year and position: 7th round (9th pick, 137th overall), 1979 NBA Draft

Seasons at VCU: 4

Seasons played with Warriors: did not make the team

Ken Stancell - forward

Draft year and position: 4th round (14th pick, 83rd overall), 1982 NBA Draft

Seasons at VCU: 4

Seasons played with Warriors: did not make the team

All stats and data courtesy of Basketball Reference.

This article originally appeared on Warriors Wire: Every VCU player drafted by the Golden State Warriors

Alonzo Menifield pulled off one of the biggest wins of his career at UFC 331 and he did it despite competing with a mangled thumb that was injured in the opening round.

Menifield showed off the gruesome injury afterwards and revealed it actually happened in the first round but he refused to stop fighting and ultimately won a split decision with scores reading 29-28, 29-28, 28-29 with two judges giving him the fight and the victory.

The light heavyweights were quick to throw with power to start the fight but neither of them were landing just yet. Baraniewski welcomed Menifield into the pocket as they were unloading huge punches.

Menifield connected with a slick combination but Baraniewski showed no fear as he kept firing back and he hurt his opponent as they battled against the cage. Menifield landed a solid punch but Baraniewski returned fire and connected with the better strikes as the light heavyweights hit the floor.

Baraniewski continued to find a home for his combinations but Menifield was evasive enough to avoid a potential knockdown or knockout.

As round two got started, Menifield marched forward and unloaded a barrage of punches in succession before ending up in the clinch with Baraniewskij, jockeying for position against the cage. After they separated, Baraniewski and Menifield just started trading bombs but they refused to go down despite landing with some seriously heavy leather.

With five minutes remaining, the ringside physician paused the action to check on Menifield’s left thumb, which looked like it was barely connected to the hand. But Menifield insisted that he wanted to keep going so the fight continued despite effectively competing with a broken thumb.

The slugfest continued with both fighters landing at times, although Menifield seemed to do a big more damage as time ticked away to the final horn. Considering he was fighting with an injury that would send most fighters running for the doctor, Menifield somehow found a way to win as he picks up his second win in a row overall and hands Baraniewski the first loss of his professional career.

The Filipina star, aged 21, claimed her first such victory at the Berlin Tennis Open earlier in the season, beating current world number one Elena Rybakina in straight sets.

At Wimbledon, Eala dethroned defending champion Iga Swiatek, beating the Pole 7-6, 6-2 to reach the fourth round of a major for the first time.

She put together the best run of her career thus far at the Washington Open, overcoming Elina Svitolina, Naomi Osaka and Jessica Pegula en route to winning her first tour-level title.

But there is one player Eala just has not been able to find an answer for: Iva Jovic.

Iva Jovic’s wins over Alex Eala so far in the 2026 WTA season

Jovic and Eala have met each other three times in 2026, with their first career clash coming at the French Open.

There, Jovic defeated Eala fairly comfortably, emerging victorious in straight sets before reaching the first Grand Slam quarterfinal of her career.

Any claims that the loss for Eala could be explained by clay being her weaker surface were put to bed when the two met on grass at Queen’s.

In the round of 16 at the Queen’s Club Championships, Jovic handed Eala an even heavier defeat, beating her 6-2, 6-2.

Their third and most recent matchup was the best of the bunch, though, and certainly the most competitive.

Doing battle on hard court for the first time, Eala and Jovic fought for three hours inside a buzzing Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Jovic won her fifth consecutive set against Eala by winning the opener 7-5, and looked to be closing in on another straight-sets triumph.

With both players struggling on serve, Eala was better in the baseline exchanges in set two, which she clinched 6-3.

It was not to be for Eala in the end, though, with Jovic taking the decider to reach the fourth round.

Where Alex Eala and Iva Jovic are in the race to the WTA Finals

Both Eala and Jovic are in with a shout of qualifying for the WTA Finals for the first time in their careers this year.

Eight players make the cut for the WTA Finals, and the eighth spot is held, as of now, by Wimbledon champion Linda Noskova, with 4,234 live points to her name.

Jovic moved up three places recently and is now 14th in the race with 2,232 points, while Eala is just behind on 2,181.

There are still two WTA 1000 tournaments left in the 2026 season where Eala and Jovic can pick up big tallies of points: the China Open and the Wuhan Open.

Currently, only US Open champion Rybakina is qualified for the prestigious year-end competition.

It’s Game Day!

The Arizona Wildcats are back home and back in nonconference play as they host the Northern Illinois Huskies. It’s the first meeting between the schools in football.

Here’s everything you need to know to watch or listen to the game, as well as our pregame coverage. Come chat with us!

Arizona-Northern Illinois game time, details:

• Date: Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026
• Time: 7:30 p.m. MT
• Location: Casino Del Sol Stadium; Tucson, Ariz.
• Line: According to FanDuel Sportsbook, Arizona is a 33.5-point favorite. The over/under is 49.5.

How can I watch Arizona-Northern Illinois?

Arizona-Northern Illinois will be shown on TNT. JB Long (play-by-play), Mike Golic Jr. (analyst) and Coy Wire (sideline) will be broadcasting the game.

How can I watch Arizona-Northern Illinois online?

The stream of Arizona-Northern Illinois can be viewed on HBO Max.

How can I listen to Arizona-Northern Illinois on the radio?

You can listen to Arizona-Northern Illinois on Wildcats Sports Radio 1290 AM.

How can I follow Arizona-Northern Illinois?

By following us on Twitter (X) at @AZDesertSwarmand our writers Brian Pedersen (@realBJP) and Juan Serrano (@Serrano_Sports).

Arizona-Northern Illinois pregame coverage:

• What to watch for when Arizona football hosts Northern Illinois
• SB Nation Reacts: Arizona football fans remain confident despite BYU loss
• Disappointing as it was, BYU loss doesn’t lessen Arizona’s chances for successful season
• Report: Arizona football’s roster budget among lowest of power conference programs
• Arizona football vs. Northern Illinois score predictions
• Arizona football notebook: Wildcats eager to atone for ‘self-inflicted sins’ at BYU
• Northern Illinois football expert previews the Arizona game, makes score prediction
• How former Arizona Wildcats fared in Week 1 of NFL season
• What Brent Brennan said at his press conference to open Northern Illinois week
• Arizona WR Giovanni Richardson out with lower body injury
• Tracking snap counts and Pro Football Focus grades from Arizona’s loss at BYU
• Arizona football opens as 5-touchdown favorite vs. Northern Illinois
• What Brent Brennan, Noah Fifita and Tre Smith after the loss to BYU
• Grading Arizona football’s performance in loss to BYU
• Arizona football 2026 season win predictions
• SB Nation Reacts: Arizona football fans hopeful for successful 2026 season
• Arizona football ramps up Noah Fifita Heisman campaign with billboards
• How to best experience a college football game at Arizona
  
  

The 2026 Purdue football season is off to a fast start here. After falling in double overtime to Wake Forest last week Purdue hits the road for the first time this season. They are in sunny California to take on the Bruins who sit at 2-0.

This game is the latest kickoff for the Boilermakers since they traveled to play Hawaii. Hopefully you’ve got some plan to stay awake. But remember, no caffeine pills. I don’t care how excited you are.

Kickoff Time: 11:00 PM ET

TV: BTN

Radio: 96.5 FM (Purdue Radio Network)

Series Record: 0-3-2 (yes, there have been two ties in this series)

Last Purdue Win: Never

Last UCLA Win: September 20, 1980 UCLA 23- Purdue 14 in Ross-Ade

This game thread, or fan discussion, will be available here on the site but also in the new SB Nation app. I used it each of the past two games and it really did make commenting easier and clearer to follow along with. For those that use the app I hope you agree. Feel free to provide feedback so we can keep improving it.

So, join us below from the stands, the couch, or the bar, to help us root on our Boilermakers against the UCLA Bruins.

NEW BOSTON – It’s all a matter of prospective.

Most would have characterized the steady, sometimes heavy rain that drenched Willow Metropark on Saturday, Sept. 19 at miserable.

The runners and coaches at the 57th annual Huron Invitational would disagree.

“It was rainy, but it was fun,” St. Mary Catholic Central coach Nick Eby said. “We just tried to just enjoy the running, not focus on the conditions.”

More: Monroe County Region football roundup for Week 4, Sept. 18, 2026

New Boston Huron coach Cassandra Roupe, who has been involved in the event for more than a decade, agreed.

“It was definitely our wettest race,” she said. “Yes, it was drizzly and wet, but it was comfortable for the runners. We’ve had some years where we had issues with heat. We had a spectator pass out a year or two ago. I would much rather have this.”

SMCC’s Christian Craanen had a lot of fun running in the rain.

He won the Division 234 boys race with a time of 15:56.3.

“He looked pretty good,” Eby said. “He was happy with it, but knows he can run better.”

Two other Monroe County Region runners finished behind Craanen.

Huron’s Cameron Crane was the runner-up with 16:20.9 and Colton Childress of the Monroe Milers placed third in a personal-best 16:35.4.

“He looked really good,” Roupe said of Crane. “He has put in a lot of work.”

Other Region runners in the top 25 were: Caleb Healey, Erie Mason, 8; Andrew Bell, Airport, 9; Grant Rasor, Whiteford, 12; Porter Ravary, Mason, 13; Tanner Kuhn, Huron, 14; Hunter Rodak, Airport, 16; Phineas Totten, SMCC, 18; Thomas Wickenheiser, SMCC, 23; Brenton Musallam, Huron, 24, and Hayden Bovair, Airport, 25.

Adrian won the team title with Huron second, Airport third, Mason fourth and SMCC fifth.

Gibraltar Carlson’s Jack Dunwoody was third in the Division 1 race and Gavin Rohr of Monroe ninth.

Ella Baker of Airport was fifth for BCD girls, one spot ahead of Huron’s Grace Pacheco.

Huron was second in the team standings to Bloomfield Hills Marion as Kayla Christesen, Isa Vargo, Alexis White and Zoey Cheney ran 12-16-17-22.

Erie Mason’s Tanylei Neff was 20th, Juleigh Husby of SMCC 23rd and Airport’s Abbey Ward 24th.

Carlson’s girls took third place in Division 1 girls with Giada Fioritto, Alexa Swetz, Madison Slade, Ada Cain, Livia Boucher and Harper Jackson finishing 8-9-11-14-21-22.

Zoey Smalling placed 25th for Monroe.

SATURDAY’S TOP PERFORMERS

VOLLEYBALL

Alle Marcero, Monroe: Stood out offensively and defensively as the Trojans went 3-1 in the Ypsilanti Lincoln Tournament, falling to Ann Arbor Pioneer in the finals. “The girls played amazing all day,” Monroe coach Chloe Maurer said. “Our serve receive was a major factor in our success, and our hitting was strong as well. We did a great job moving the ball around, running plays, and keeping the offense balanced.”

BOYS SOCCER

Brody McCloud, Bedford: Scored six times as the Mules beat St. Mary Catholic Central 5-2, Milan 4-0 and Ypsilanti Lincoln 7-0 to win its own tournament. Cory Gore and Brendan Gallardo also were offensive leaders, Saul Brady netted his first varsity goal and Hayden Parsons was strong in goal for the 4-5-1 Mules.

GIRLS SWIMMING

Karis Beaton, Monroe: Qualified for the Division state finals with a time of :54.86 to win the 100-yard freestyle and hit a personal best of :25.38 in the 50 freestyle at the Belleville Invitational. Sophia Smith hit three personal bests.

FRIDAY’S TOP PERFORMERS

BOYS SOCCER

Stevie Callejas, State Line Christian: Recorded his third shutout of the season in a 1-0 win over Vassar Juniata Christian. Trey Heaton scored the game’s only goal off a corner kick by Austin Nowak. The Patriots have won 14 in a row at home dating back to Sept. 9, 2025.

This article originally appeared on The Monroe News: Monroe County Region high school sports roundup for Sept. 18-19

Minchey, who was backing up CJ Carr for the Fighting Irish last season, was 14-for-18 for 252 yards and two touchdowns for the Wildcats in the 31-21 win.

LSU coach taunts Ole Miss fans during pregame in heated exchange originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The energy coming into Lane Kiffin's homecoming to Oxford was unreal.

The showdown between No. 7 LSU Tigers and No. 8 Ole Miss Rebels was expected to bring fireworks. Who knew Kiffin's assistant coaches could be amped up as well. LSU running backs coach Kevin Smith got into the act and tried to humble a few Ole Miss fans with some savage words.

“The best running backs to ever come through here is because of me,” Smith told the Rebels faithful.

WATCH: LSU RB coach and former Ole Miss coach Kevin Smith talks to Rebel fans👀

“The best running backs to ever come through here is because of me.”

(via @BatonRougeBKM) pic.twitter.com/18aEAUrD8I

— On3 (@On3) September 19, 2026

Ole Miss fans weren't trying to hear the negative comments at all and booed him back to the field during pregame warmups. Smith was one of the few to follow Kiffin to Baton Rouge. His time at Oxford featured a few good rushers, including Kewan Lacy, who chose to stay at Ole Miss. Smith also has Quinshon Judkins, who rushed for 1,567 yards and 16 touchdowns.

MORE:'Keep him away from the sorority girls': Lane Kiffin story from Nick Saban's Alabama days reveals surprising side of LSU coach

As much as LSU tried to shut up Ole Miss, there was no way it was going to happen on Saturday night. The Rebels' "12th Man" wanted Kiffin and his staff to know they weren't welcome, jumping out to a 24-7 halftime lead. Trinidad Chambliss looked near perfect in the first half. He went 21-of-27 for 248 yards and two touchdowns. Lacy added another score on the ground for Ole Miss.

LSU had 114 yards of total offense in the worst half this season. The Tigers will receive the second half kickoff. Needless to say, Kiffin's return to Ole Miss isn't looking so hot for LSU to start. The Rebels are letting the scoreboard do the talking tonight. 

MORE COLLEGE FOOTBALL NEWS:

• Deion Sanders buyout, contract details as Colorado Buffaloes coach
• Nike adds eight College Football stars to NIL roster before 2026 season
• ESPN analyst says 'pump the brakes' on Texas' Arch Manning being the best QB
• Dabo Swinney says Clemson is a 'bunch of nobodies' ahead of 2026 season
• Shedeur Sanders is all over social media after Colorado GPA surfaces

Even without a standout performance, São Paulo gave its fans a response after being knocked out of the Copa Sudamericana.

Amid protests at MorumBIS, Tricolor beat Internacional on Saturday night (19).

Calleri secured the 1-0 win in the match valid for the 28th round of the Brasileirão.

Check out the highlights soon.

Tricolor advantage

São Paulo had the better start.

They had more possession, created more, and moved the ball better.

And they went ahead after Luciano won a penalty.

It was up to Calleri to convert it (15').

It was his first Brasileirão goal at MorumBIS since April 4.

And he will not be on the field against Santos, as he was one booking away from suspension and was shown a yellow card soon after.

Inter only had a good chance after a mistake by Toloi, and only before halftime.

Inter try, but...

Pezzolano made two changes for the second half.

And the team from Rio Grande do Sul had three chances in a row.

Colorado began to take greater control of the game.

Dorival's first substitution was conservative and later he gave SPFC some fresh legs.

The situation remained dangerous for Tricolor.

Inter pushed further and further forward.

The pressure intensified. But Tricolor held on to all three points.

📊 Standings situation

Even with a game in hand, São Paulo reached 36 points.

They moved up to 11th place.

They will play again on the 2nd.

That is when they will host Santos in the postponed match from the 21st round.

Internacional, meanwhile, remain on 28 points. And in 17th place.

They now await the rest of the round to see how big the gap is to escape the bottom four.

Their next Brasileirão match will be on October 7, when they will host Corinthians.

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

Alonzo Menifield opened the UFC 331 main card by handing Iwo Baraniewski his first career loss.

Menifield (19-6-1 MMA, 12-6-1 UFC) looked like he might be the next victim to Baraniewski's (9-1 MMA, 3-1 UFC) first-round knockout streak on Saturday at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, but instead he gritted out a split decision win by scored of 28-29, 29-28 and 29-28 in the light heavyweight bout.

These two are SWINGING

[ #CryptoCom#UFC331 LIVE NOW on @ParamountPlus ] pic.twitter.com/ENJpQRYsUP

— UFC (@ufc) September 20, 2026

It was a Fight of the Night contender from the jump, with the hard-hitting 205-pounders stinging each other on multiple instances. It was largely that way for the entire duration of the fight, with the pace slowing as the minutes wore on.

The doctor checked Menifield's hand before Round 3 for a nasty cut that appeared to be deep. The fight went on and Menifield showed toughness, but he couldn't find a ton of effective offense before it went to the scorecards.

Next level toughness from Alonzo Menifield right now 😬

[ #CryptoCom#UFC331 is LIVE NOW on @ParamountPlus ] pic.twitter.com/1QYMDBrE2X

— UFC (@ufc) September 20, 2026

It was the first time in Baraniewski's MMA career that he went to a decision, and he couldn't keep his undefeated record in tact as Menifield made it a dozen victories in his promotional tenure.

After the fight, Menifield showed off the gruesome cut to his finger with generated a notable groan from the crowd.

Thumbs up??? 😬

Alonzo Menifield is one TOUGH MAN pic.twitter.com/r8wvlhe4WN

— UFC (@ufc) September 20, 2026

Up-to-the-minute UFC 331 results:

• Alonzo Menifield def. Iwo Baraniewski via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
• Marlon Vera def. Charles Jourdain via TKO (punches) – Round 3, 2:02
• Robelis Despaigne def. Tai Tuivasa via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
• Michael Aswell def. JooSang Yoo via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
• Ryan Gandra def. Ozzy Diaz via knockout (punches) – Round 1, 2:04
• Edmen Shahbazyan def. Brunno Ferreira via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27)
• Casey O'Neill def. Eduarda Moura via submission (armbar) – Round 1, 3:22
• Joanderson Brito def. Giga Chikadze via knockout (punches) – Round 1, 1:57

This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: UFC 331 results: Alonzo Menifield overcomes gruesome cut to upset Iwo Baraniewski

ANN ARBOR — Michigan sophomore receiver Andrew Marsh led the team in receiving last year, but through the first two games this season, he was not much of a factor.

That was something head coach Kyle Whittingham said had to change, and so it did in the Wolverines’ 52-17 win over UTEP on Saturday, Sept. 19, at Michigan Stadium in their final nonconference game. Marsh was targeted a dozen times and finished with a game-high 105 yards on 10 catches, including a 34-yard touchdown reception with 1:18 left in the third quarter.

“We had more of a game planning concerted effort to get Andrew the ball because we hadn't gotten the ball enough in the first two games,” Whittingham said. “We understood that and needed that to change. He’s a guy that is one of the better receivers in the Big Ten, and we got to utilize him, and I think we did a good job of that.”

Before Marsh’s breakout performance against the Miners, he had five catches for 28 through the first two games.

In the second quarter, Marsh made a twisting one-handed catch on third down and was able to come down with his left toes inside the sideline before momentum took him out of bounds. That kept the Wolverines’ first scoring drive alive as Savion Hiter scored to tie the game at 7.

“I caught it (and) I really knew I was in bounds, but then they kind of signaled that it wasn't a catch, so I was kind of unsure,” Marsh said. “But then I seen the replay and kind of confirmed what I was thinking. I would say just practice awareness, knowing where you're at, and getting the feet down (explain the play).”

Michigan was 2 of 2 on fourth down, and quarterback Bryce Underwood and Marsh connected on the first during the final scoring drive of the first half. That conversion led to Trey Butkowski’s 49-yard field goal that gave the Wolverines a 17-14 halftime lead.

This was a pivotal game for Underwood to establish confidence in the pass game and for Marsh to become a much larger player in the game plan.

“He really just told me keep going, he was gonna find me,” Marsh said of an in-game conversation with Underwood. “It was a few shots that we kind of wish we connected on more early in the first half and stuff like that. He was kind of just telling me just to stay the course, ball's gonna come and we'll make some more plays."

Michigan injury updates

Michigan was without starting right tackle Andrew Sprague and had to reconfigure its offensive line for the third time this season. Left tackle Blake Frazier moved to right tackle, while Evan Link, who missed last week’s game against Oklahoma because of injury, started at left tackle. He played left guard in the opener.

Sprague was a late scratch for the Wolverines.

“We sure hope to have him back soon,” Whittingham said. “It was a weird deal and was within the last literally 24 hours. I won't elaborate on it, but it completely caught us off-guard because he took every rep during the practice week up until (Friday). I thought the new configuration played out pretty darn good. I thought those guys did a nice job for having literally no reps as a unit in practice all week long. I thought they handled it pretty good.”

Cornerback Zeke Berry was in uniform, but did not play against UTEP. Whittingham said Berry was a game-time decision.

“He had something that was nagging at him during the week,” Whittingham said. “Had we had to have him, probably could have played him. The safer course of action was to try to sit him and get him completely healthy for next week (against Iowa) and let Shamari Earls take over and get some reps there, so I believe that was the right decision. (Berry) should be good to go for next week because of that. We're hoping we get him back next week.”

Jonah Lea’ea and his pick-6

Jonah Lea’ea had not scored a touchdown since his sophomore year in high school when he was a receiver. Against UTEP, the 6-foot-5, 290-pounder Lea’ea intercepted UTEP’s EJ Colson and ran nine yards for a touchdown.

The score, with no time left in the third quarter, gave Michigan a 45-14 lead.

“It was pretty unbelievable,” Lea’ea said. “From the moment when I caught it to when I ran into the end zone, it kind of hit me late, like, ‘Oh wow, I just scored a touchdown.’ To be there was pretty great.”

Tariq Boney helped make the play happen.

“It was actually insane because I forced the pass on my end, and then turning around and seeing Jonah in the air with the ball, it was like, oh my goodness,” Boney said. “I really couldn't believe it, and then celebrating on the sideline, it was amazing.”

Lea’ea transferred to Michigan from Utah when Whittingham was hired late last December.

“I had a chance to coach him for the last three years at Utah, and for whatever reason, you can't screen that guy,” Whittingham said. “If he's in the game, you better not try a screen because he's gonna disrupt it. He read it perfectly, snatched it out of the air and had a pick six. He just seems to have a knack for playing screens as well as anybody I've ever been around, so that was good to see.”

 Another fourth-down conversion

Michigan got its second big fourth-down conversion in the second half on a 10-yard pass from Underwood to Travis Johnson on fourth and 4. Savion Hiter scored his second touchdown to give Michigan a 31-14 lead.

“It was a big continuing of the momentum that we had,” Whittingham said. “It was analytically well within the go range, and so there was nothing analytically that was saying don't go, as well, and it was something that sometimes you just go with your gut feeling. Usually you follow the analytics, but sometimes you just go with your gut. But that they happen to line up both for a go in that situation, and we converted.”

Michigan was 9 of 13 on third downs against UTEP and 2 of 2 on fourth down.

“You combine them and see where you are, and we were pretty darn good,” Whittingham said.

achengelis@detroitnews.com

@chengelis

This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Michigan gets receiver Andrew Marsh going in win vs. UTEP

The Jacksonville Jaguars have elevated QB Nick Mullens and LB Jalen McLeod to the active roster from the practice squad for tomorrow’s game, the team announced today.

Mullens saw limited action in relief of QB Trevor Lawrence once the Jaguars led the Cleveland Browns comfortably late in last week’s regular-season opener.

Mullens, 31, spent the 2025 season with Jacksonville as Lawrence’s backup after coming to the team from San Francisco, where he joined as an undrafted rookie in 2017.

McLeod, 24, spent the 2025 season on the injured reserve list. He was originally drafted by Jacksonville in the sixth round (194th overall) of the 2025 draft.

A Washington, D.C., native, McLeod attended Appalachian State (2020-22) and Auburn (2023-24), where he set career highs in 2024 in tackles (57), tackles for loss (13.5) and sacks (8.0) in 12 games.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

[DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks]

[SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter]

Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live.

Kristijan Kahlina matched his career high with 10 saves for Charlotte (12-7-7) at the end of a three-match road trip. The club is 5-0-3 during its unbeaten run. Kahlina also had 10 saves in a season-opening 1-1 draw at St. Louis City.

Westwood scored from well outside the box in the 22nd minute to give Charlotte a 1-0 lead that stood through halftime. The captain — along with David Schnegg — sat out the club's 3-3 draw with FC Cincinnati for yellow-card accumulation before netting his third goal.

Defender Lucas Bartlett used an assist from Keisuke Kurokawa — following a yellow card on Schnegg — to tie it 1-all with a header two minutes into the second half. Bartlett's goal was his third this season and his fifth in 86 appearances with DC United (6-8-11).

Charlotte regained the lead in the 71st minute when Westwood set up Allan Saint-Maximin for his first goal in his eighth league appearance. The assist was a career-high ninth for the 36-year-old in his fourth MLS season.

Sean Johnson stopped five shots on goal for DC United, which entered with a 1-0-2 record following a 3-1 home loss to Charlotte on Aug. 22.

Up next

Charlotte: Hosts Chicago Fire on Saturday.

DC: At Vancouver Whitecaps on Saturday.

___

See AP’s full soccer coverage here

The Dodgers on Monday beat the Reds to clinch a playoff berth for the 14th season in a row, tying the major league record also held by the Atlanta Braves, who made it to 14 consecutive postseasons from 1991-2005.

Los Angeles won again in Cincinnati on Tuesday, which eliminated the Arizona Diamondbacks from National League West contention. Then the Dodgers beat the Reds on Thursday, clinching their fifth consecutive division title and 13th in the last 14 years.

Clinching a bye

The two division winners with the best records get a bye directly into the National League Division Series, which means beginning the postseason on Saturday, October 3 instead of in the wild card round on Tuesday, September 29.

NL division leaders

1. Brewers 97-58
2. Dodgers 94-60
3. Braves 91-64

through Milwaukee and Atlanta games on September 19

The Dodgers do not have the tiebreaker with either the Brewers or Braves, which means they have to have a better record to gain a higher seed. The Dodgers’ magic number to clinch at least the No. 2 seed over Atlanta is five, or put another way the Dodgers need five of 15 outcomes to fall their way in order to finish with a better record than the Braves. Meanwhile, Atlanta needs 11 of 15 outcomes to claim the No. 2 seed.

Getting the No. 1 seed over Milwaukee is a tougher task for the Dodgers, who have a magic number of 11 to finish with the best record in the National League. That means the Dodgers need 11 of 15 outcomes to fall their way to earn the No. 1 seed, while the Brewers need just five of 15 outcomes to have the best NL record for the second year in a row.

CARSON, California: Jorge Prado finished second in Moto 2 of the second race and took the overall in Round 2 of the SMX Playoffs in Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California, and scored the overall victory by the slimmest of margins.

Hunter Lawrence overcame modest finish in the first moto and won Moto 2 to settle into second overall by a tiebreaker with Ken Roczen.

Ken Roczen wins Carson 450 SMX Moto 1

Ken Roczen said he would not change his approach even though he is competing for a champions. As it turned out, that was the right decision.

• Dan Beaver
  ,

Lawrence earned the holeshot and was never seriously contested for the moto win, but the math in the Olympic-style scoring remained tight until the very end.

Roczen and Prado battled through the first race until the final lap, and for the first half of Moto 2, they were just as tightly clumped, this time for second. As they concentrated on one another, however, Haiden Deegan slipped into the runner-up position passing four riders in one lap.

With five minutes on the clock, there was a four-way tie for first overall.

Then Prado took the second position away from Deegan on Lap 20, changing the math again.

Deegan held onto third in the moto and finished fourth overall.

Cooper Webb rounded out the top five in both the moto and overall scoring.

Sometimes sports can very predictable in really silly ways. Going into halftime of today’s game between UNC and Clemson, anybody outside the Tar Heel fanbase probably said that the mojo was on their side and they had a great chance to pull off a needed win in Death Valley to end a horrendous losing streak against the Tigers. For any Carolina fans like myself, however, there was this sinking feeling that the Heels would find a way to choke, and boy did they ever.

Before we get too far down the rabbit hole, let’s first address the first half. UNC opened the game by pounding the ball down Clemson’s throat, which resulted in taking an early 14-3 lead. Clemson freshman quarterback Tait Reynolds had a difficult time getting going early on mostly because of nerves, but it didn’t help that the Heels’ defensive line was forcing him to make some iffy decisions. Reynolds would eventually find his footing, though, but Clemson still couldn’t find their way into the end zone. UNC went into halftime up 17-6, and it felt like maybe momentum was on Bill Belichick’s side.

To start the second half, though, Reynolds & Co. continued to apply pressure against the Heels’ defense. The Tigers scored 10 unanswered points in the second half, and after a while it was clear that UNC didn’t have much of an answer. On the offensive side of the ball, Clemson’s defense clamped down on UNC’s potent run game, which means Billy Edwards Jr. had to prove that he could beat them with his arm. That didn’t go well, to say the least, but they were eventually able to get into field goal range in the fourth quarter to make the score 20-15. The three points were scored after yet another severe weather delay thanks to lightning in the area.

When Clemson got the ball back, they ran four plays for 68 yards and got into the end zone. The Heels proceeded to turn the ball over on downs, which then led to the Tigers running five plays and getting into the end zone yet again. On UNC’s last possession, Edwards tried to be a hero and connect on a desperation Hail Mary, but the pass was intercepted to end the game.

For anybody wondering how UNC could let such a winnable game slip away, look no further than Edwards’ sub-par performance. While he was able to escape pressure with his feet, throwing the ball this afternoon was a disaster. He connected just 13 of his 30 passes for 135 yards, a touchdown, and an interception. He threw a number of bad passes to his targets, missed some guys entirely, and overall just looked bad. Ben Hall and Demon June did a great job of trying to carry the offense on their backs, but ultimately you can’t beat many Power Four teams with poor quarterback play. Hopefully it was just a bad day that won’t repeat itself, but Notre Dame won’t make things any easier in a couple of weeks.

As far as the defense goes, it just seemed like Reynolds proved to be a problem for them once he shook off the nerves. While they deserve a lot of credit for what they were able to do earlier in the game, Reynolds picked them apart from the end of the second quarter onward, and it eventually wore them down. Perhaps things would’ve went better if Melkart Abou Jaoude wasn’t injured, but really we’ll never know. Credit to Reynolds for saving Dabo Swinney from embarrassment, but this is a loss for the Tar Heels that will sting for quite some time.

Up next for the Tar Heels is a by week next week, and then the week after they will face off against Notre Dame in Kenan Stadium.

This is the UFC 331 live blog for Gable Steveson vs. Sean Sharaf, the main card heavyweight bout Saturday at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

The undefeated Steveson (4-0) made a successful UFC debut in July with a first-round knockout over Elisha Ellison. Steveson is one of the most highly touted heavyweight prospects in recent memory, having won a gold medal in freestyle wrestling at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, as well as back-to-back NCAA Division-I championships in 2021 and 2022. At 26, Steveson is projected to be a future title contender.

Sharaf (4-2) seeks his first UFC victory. The former United States Marine began his pro MMA career with four first-round knockout victories, but is yet to find success in the octagon. Sharaf, 33, lost by second-round knockout to Junior Tafa and was again finished in the second round when he squared off with Steven Asplund in a bout that won a Fight of the Night bonus for both fighters.

Check out the UFC 331 live blog for Gable Steveson vs. Sean Sharaf below.

Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz returns to face Nestor Bravo in tonight’s Premier Boxing Champions main event, live on DAZN from San Diego!

We’ll be here with live, round-by-round updates and full results starting from 8 pm ET, with Wil Esco handling our round-by-round coverage, while I’ll be leading the live chat down in the comments section.

Join your fellow fight fans tonight!

Pitbull vs Bravo live blog and results

Daniel Blancas def. Sergio Jimenez by TKO-7 (1:38)

• Brave and stubborn performance from Jimenez, who withstood all sorts of punishment to make it as much of a fight as he could of it. Unfortunately, you don’t win rounds with tough guy points. Blancas pasted him from pillar to post from the opening round until the ultimately ending in Round 7.

• Referee steps in in the seventh as as he finally sees enough.
• Six rounds in and Jimenez is hanging tough but losing every round clean and clear.
• Blancas putting a beating on Jimenez, particularly to the body over three rounds. Jimenez has very little to offer by way of resistance.
• Ridiculous mismatch of a fight. Fight spills over past the bell in the first.
• First bell sounds!
• Ring walks getting started!

Marco Verde def. Guillermo Hernandez by TKO-5 (1:46)

• One-sided beatdown by Verde, with Hernandez’s only moment of success coming from a highly questionable knockdown call in the third round. That moment aside, he got absolutely throttled by Verde who hit him with literally every punch in the training manual.

• Referee has seen enough, stops it in the fifth.
• Doctor evaluating Hernandez to start the fifth.
• Four rounds in, Hernandez has won maybe 1% of the entire fight, yet he’s the one with the official knockdown. He’s otherwise taking a shellacking.
• Replay seems to show the knockdown was really a case of a balance shot while Hernandez stepped on Verde’s foot. Knockdown won’t be overruled, though.
• Verde landing everything and the kitchen sink in the third, Hernandez with a high threshold for punishment. VERDE SOMEHOW GOES DOWN AND SAYS IT WAS A SLIP BUT IT WAS RULED OTHERWISE!
• Considerable mismatch in talent and skill. Verde teeing off and easily having his way after two, and it doesn’t much look like Hernandez wants to be in there. Hernandez took the fight on two weeks notice, and it shows.
• First bell sounds!
• Ring walks getting started.

Eumir Marcial def. Omar Huerta by KO-3 (1:08)

• Marcial clearly came into this fight with a point to prove and showcased his power advantage early. The crowd was definitely pro-Huerta but that wasn’t enough for him to withstand the punches Marcial was dishing out. In the third Marcial landed a beautiful counter shot that put Huerta down and unable to beat the count. Nice one for the highlight reel.

• BEAUTIFULLY TIMED COUNTER PUTS HUERTA DOWN AND OUT!
• Heavy punching coming from Marcial, Huerta at an obvious power deficit early, and Marcial just steadily applying pressure and picking his spots to strafe the body and head.
• Okay, we’re officially underway!
• Ring walks starting now! Fight will be getting started momentarily.

How to watch Pitbull vs Bravo

Start time: 8:00 pm ET

Streaming: DAZN (subscription required)

Location: Pechanga Arena, San Diego, CA, USA

Pitbull vs Bravo running order and lineup

Main Event

• Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz vs Nestor Bravo, super lightweights, 12 rounds, for Cruz’s interim WBC title
  • Preview:Cruz (28-3-2, 18 KO) looks to stay relevant at 140, basically, as he can’t lose this fight and get a good fight next, but if he wins it, yeah, he’ll be attractive for plenty of people, and could force a full WBC title fight with the Dalton Smith vs Alberto Puello winner after their fight on October 24. He could also be lined up to face WBA champ Gary Antuanne Russell. But he has to win here. He’s expected to, but Bravo (24-1, 17 KO) does have advantages in height and reach, and they’re significant. It’s going to come down to whether he can utilize those or not, because Pitbull fights the same, always. He’s tough, he’s hard to beat, and he makes you earn it.

Undercard

• Daniel Blancas vs Sergio Jimenez, super middleweights, 10 rounds
  • Preview: We’ve got BoxRec rankings of 31 (Blancas) and 208 (Jimenez) here. Blancas is 15-0 (7 KO), a 25-year-old Milwaukee native who scored a decent win over Raul Salomon last time out on May 2, and has been inching along as a pro. Jimenez (17-1-1, 15 KO) is a 39-year-old Mexicali-born fighter who had his pro debut at age 33 in 2021, and went to a six-round draw against a fella who came in with a record of 8-56-2. He’s done OK since then, but he’s fought at very, very low levels, other than a 10-round loss to Deon Nicholson in 2024. On the sheet, this looks like a pretty wack mismatch propped up by one guy’s paper-thin record.
• Marco Verde vs Guillermo Hernandez, middleweights, 10 rounds
  • Preview: Verde (6-0, 3 KO) won a silver medal for Mexico at the 2024 Olympics in Paris, falling short in the final against Asadkhuja Muydinkhujaev of Uzbekistan, who are among the big daddies in modern amateur boxing. Verde represented his country wonderfully, but he hasn’t exactly been blowing anyone’s doors off since turning pro in May 2025, and it’s not like he’s been matched aggressively or something.He’s beating people handily and clean without debate, but anyone would want to see more for an Olympic silver medalist. But maybe that’s just not him. Hernandez (7-0, 4 KO) is a 30-year-old from Calgary nicknamed “The Warrior,” which is staggeringly generic. He won three fights in El Salvador, one in Colombia, one in his hometown of Calgary, and two club-level fights in Mexico. These are places where you can pad/build a record pretty easily.
• Eumir Marcial vs Omar Huerta, middleweights, 10 rounds
  • Preview: Marcial (7-0, 4 KO) was once given a bit of hype as a possible Next Great Hope out of the Philippines, but the 30-year-old also hasn’t really impressed since turning pro in late 2020. He won bronze at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. He also plays basketball for the Basilan Steel of the MPBL in the Philippines, so he’s just like Manny Pacquiao other than all the achievements or accomplishments past that bronze medal.Huerta (15-1-1, 13 KO) is a local, 0-1-1 in his last two, including a shutout loss to Vito Mielnicki Jr last time out in April.

The Seminoles fell 50-36 to No. 10 Alabama Crimson Tide at Bryant-Denny Stadium, dropping to 1-2 after losing consecutive games to SMU and the Crimson Tide. FSU led 21-6 during the second quarter and briefly regained a 28-26 advantage early in the third, but Alabama eventually took control behind 568 yards of offense and a turnover-free performance.

Here are the winners and losers from Florida State’s loss in Tuscaloosa, which once again has FSU's fans calling for changes.

Winner: Duce Robinson

Florida State needed more from its passing game entering Saturday, and Duce Robinson answered the call.

Robinson caught six passes for 135 yards and a touchdown, easily his most productive performance of the season. His 20-yard touchdown opened the scoring and helped FSU build an early advantage against one of the best defenses it has faced.

Ashton Daniels also threw for 377 yards, while Micahi Danzy added 89 receiving yards and Jayvan Boggs finished with 69. The Seminoles finally generated the explosive passing plays that were largely absent through the first two games.

Loser: Florida State’s road drought reaches 1,029 days

The most troubling streak surrounding Mike Norvell’s program continues. Florida State has not won a true road game since defeating the Florida Gators 24-15 in Gainesville on Nov. 25, 2023. Saturday marked 1,029 days since that victory.

The Seminoles went winless on the road during both the 2024 and 2025 seasons, and their first opportunity of 2026 produced another defeat. That issue will not disappear anytime soon. FSU still has road games remaining against Louisville, Miami, Boston College, and Pitt.

Loser: Florida State turnovers

Florida State accumulated 471 total yards and averaged 7.5 yards per play. Those are numbers that usually give a team a chance to win.

Three interceptions from Daniels made that much more difficult. Alabama finished without a turnover, giving the Crimson Tide a plus-three advantage in one of the game’s most consequential categories. Daniels’ final interception came with FSU attempting to make one last push inside the final two minutes.

Winner: Ousmane Kromah

Even with the passing game taking a significant step forward, Ousmane Kromah continued to provide Florida State with production out of the backfield. The sophomore rushed 17 times for 80 yards and a touchdown, including a 12-yard score that gave FSU a 14-3 first-quarter lead.

Kromah has now been Florida State’s leading rusher in each of its first three games and continues to look like the most dependable piece of the Seminoles’ offense.

Loser: FSU’s defense

Florida State’s defensive issues did not disappear during the bye week.

Alabama accumulated 568 total yards while averaging 8.6 yards per play, with quarterback Keelon Russell completing 23 of 30 passes for 320 yards and three touchdowns. He also delivered one of the game’s defining plays with a 57-yard touchdown run late in the third quarter.

FSU surrendered 50 points despite forcing Alabama into just three conversions on nine third-down attempts. The Crimson Tide repeatedly found explosive plays before third down could become a factor.

Loser: Alabama gets its revenge

The recent history between these programs gave Saturday’s matchup additional weight.

Florida State stunned then-No. 8 Alabama 31-17 in Tallahassee to open the 2025 season, scoring 24 consecutive points in one of the Seminoles’ biggest victories of the year. Alabama returned the favor Saturday with 50 points on its home field.

There is also an unavoidable connection to 2023. Florida State finished that regular season 13-0 but was left out of the four-team College Football Playoff, with one-loss Alabama receiving the No. 4 seed while FSU finished No. 5 in the committee’s final ranking.

Follow us @FSUWire on X and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Florida State news, notes, and opinions.

This article originally appeared on FSU Wire: Winners and losers from Florida State’s loss to Alabama

During an on-field ceremony at the end of the first quarter Saturday afternoon, Rutgers honored several members of its team from 2006. Back then, the Scarlet Knights went 11-2, tying the school-record for victories in a season, and finished No. 12 in the final Associated Press poll, the highest year-end ranking in program history. Not much has gone right in the 20 years since, especially since Rutgers joined the Big Ten Conference in 2014.

On Saturday, the Scarlet Knights lost 42-35 to No. 12 USC, falling to 0-3 and extending their losing streak against AP top 25 opponents to 44 games. The Scarlet Knights haven’t defeated a ranked opponent since Nov. 12, 2009 when coach Greg Schiano helped them upset No. 23 South Florida 31-0 at home on a Thursday night.

Since Schiano returned in December 2019, Rutgers is 0-16 against ranked teams, losing by an average of 25.4 points. The seven-point deficit Saturday was tied for the smallest against a ranked opponent during Schiano’s second tenure, while the 35 points were the most Rutgers has scored against a top 25 team during that stretch. Still, it was of little solace.

“I’m very disappointed for our players and our coaches and our fans,” Schiano said. “There are no moral victories. I don’t want to hear about that. That doesn’t apply. I fully expected to win this game.”

Schiano was in the minority. Through Rutgers’ first two games, the Scarlet Knights struggled against weak competition. Rutgers opened with a 37-21 home loss against lowly UMass, the Minutemen’s first victory in 16 games. The Scarlet Knights then lost 28-21 at Boston College, as quarterback AJ Surace threw four interceptions.

On Saturday, though, the Scarlet Knights hung with a USC team that started 2-0 and has several players who should play in the NFL in the next couple of years. Rutgers finished with 460 yards of offense, just four fewer than USC, and had more yards (289) in the second half than the Trojans (212). Antwan Raymond ran for 122 yards on 21 carries, while receiver KJ Duff had seven catches for 86 yards and made a one-handed touchdown catch late in the first quarter.

Rutgers quarterback Dylan Lonergan, who missed the BC game with an injury, returned and completed 18 of 36 passes for 252 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions. After throwing an interception on his first attempt, he regrouped and made some clutch plays, as did his team, which converted three of four fourth downs.

Trailing 17-7 and facing a 4th and 21 on its own 16-yard line late in the first half, Rutgers converted a fake punt, with punter Jakob Anderson completing a 40-yard pass to defensive back Jesse Ofurie, who was wide open in the middle of the field. Five plays later, Lonergan threw a 16-yard touchdown pass to Elias Coke for 17-14 USC with 1:25 left.

“My decisions tonight are based on who you’re playing, (12^th-ranked team) in the country,” Schiano said. “They have one of the more talented rosters. The pro people I talk to…they have top five talent in the country on that team. You have to take some chances.”

Still, Lonergan made some mistakes, as well, including early in the third quarter when Rutgers trailed 20-14 and had a first and goal on the USC 9-yard line. USC safety Prophet Brown stepped in front of Lonergan’s pass, made the interception and returned the ball 99 yards for a touchdown, expand the Trojans’ lead to 27-14. But Rutgers responded with a three-play, 75-yard drive, culminating in Clay Thevenin’s 17-yard touchdown run to cut its deficit to 27-21.

In the fourth quarter, Schiano went for it again on fourth and 1 from the Rutgers 24-yard line. Running back Antwan Raymond received the direct snap, but he couldn’t get the first down. USC quarterback Jordan Maiava then threw a two-yard touchdown pass (his second of the night) for a 42-28 lead with 8.41 left. Lonergan followed up by tossing a 28-yard touchdown on fourth and 10 to cut the Rutgers deficit to 42-35 with 4:24 remaining. But USC ran out the clock, keeping its perfect record intact and setting up a major Big Ten home game next Saturday against No. 21 Oregon.

Rutgers, meanwhile, again fell short against a ranked team, calling into question Schiano’s future with the program. After coaching Rutgers from 2001 through 2011, the best years in program history, Schiano became the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ head coach, lasting two seasons. He later was an assistant at Ohio State before returning to Rutgers in 2019 to great fanfare.

Still, since Schiano took over for a second time, Rutgers has gone 31-44, including 15-40 in the Big Ten. Rutgers should be a heavy favorite on Friday night against Howard, a Football Championship Subdivision team. But a week later the Scarlet Knights host No. 4 Indiana, the reigning national champion. They also face No. 19 Michigan and No. 14 Penn State, along with five other conference opponents. They can’t overlook any of those teams.

After Rutgers went 7-6 in 2023 and won the Pinstripe Bowl, Schiano signed a contract extension through the 2029 season. He is making $6.75 million this year and is owed $22.5 million over the final three years of his contract, per CBS Sports. Those are numbers that are surely on the mind of athletics director Keli Zinn, who came from LSU and started in July 2025.

The schedule presents opportunities for Schiano to defeat Big Ten opponents and show he’s the right man for the role. Still, the clock is ticking. And despite praising his team Saturday for hanging in with a ranked team, Schiano knows where things stand.

“There’s nobody to blame but me,” Schiano said. “I have to figure out how to do it as the head coach. After 39 years of doing this, I have to figure out how to get us over the hump because we’re not a bad football team. We’re just not quite where we need to be right now.”

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is live TONIGHT (Sat., Sept. 19, 2026)with UFC 331 taking place at crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, Ca., streaming exclusively live on Paramount+. The main event is a rematch for the UFC Flyweight title with Joshua Van vs. Alexandre Pantoja 2.

UFC 331 Preview

Joshua Van gets a chance to defend his UFC Flyweight title for the second time tonight when he meets former champion Alexandre Pantoja. Van was, of course, awarded the belt after Pantoja went down with an arm injury early in their first fight last year. Since then Van solidified his title as champion by beating Tatsuro Taira in one of the fights of the year. This is Pantoja’s first fight back since suffering that arm injury.

The co-main event tonight is a five round non-title fight in the Lightweight division. Arman Tsarukyan vs. Mauricio Ruffycould fast-track someone to a title shot with Justin Gaethje. For Tsarukyan that would be his second title shot, if you count the one he lost on weigh-in day (due to a back injury) before he was supposed to fight Islam Makhachev. Ruffy has never been this close to a title shot, but a win here on the back of his White House demolition job on Michael Chandler would be a big statement.

The main card is rounded out by Patricio Pitbull vs. Doohoo Choi,Alonzo Menifield vs. Iwo Baraniewskiand Gable Steveson vs. Sean Sharaf. This will be Pitbull’s final fight on his current UFC deal. Iwo Baraniewski is worth keeping tabs on. He’s won all his UFC fights so far in electrifying fashion. Steveson is, again, on course to be one of the biggest favorites in MMA betting history, that’s in spite of him being just 4-0 as a pro.

The Featured ‘Prelim’ tonight is Marlon Vera vs. Charles Jourdain in the Bantamweight division. That portion of the card also has Robelis Despaigne vs. Tai Tuivasa, Michael Aswell vs. Joo Sang Yoo and Ryan Gandra vs. Ozzy Diaz.

The Early ‘Prelims’ kick us off with Giga Chikadze vs. Joanderson Brito. The early part of the show also includes Casey O’Neill vs. Eduarda Moura and Edmen Shahbazyan vs. Brunno Ferreira.

UFC 331 Start Date and Time

It’s standard operating procedure tonight. Here’s when the various portions of the latest numbered event goes live:

• UFC 331’s Early “Prelims” will begin at 5:30 p.m. ET.
• UFC 331’s Late “Prelims” are scheduled to start at 7 p.m. ET.
• UFC 331’s PLE main card goes live at 9 p.m. ET.
• All of UFC 331 airs on Paramount+, which you can stream here.

The live blog will get underway at 5:30 p.m. ET, just before the first fight. Come in and chat with your fellow Maniacs in the comments.

UFC 331 QUICK RESULTS

Main card

• 125 lbs.: Joshua Van vs. Alexandre Pantoja
• 155 lbs.: Arman Tsarukyan vs. Mauricio Ruffy
• 145 lbs.: Patricio Pitbull vs. Doo Ho Choi
• 265 lbs.: Gable Steveson vs. Sean Sharaf
• 205 lbs.: Alonzo Menifield def. Iwo Baraniewski by split decision (28-29, 29-28, 29-28)

Late ‘Prelims’

• 135 lbs.: Marlon Vera def. Charles Jourdain by TKO (punch), round 3 (2:02) — HIGHLIGHTS
• 265 lbs.: Robelis Despaigne def. Tai Tuivasa by split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
• 145 lbs.: Michael Aswell Jr. def. Joo Sang Yoo by split decision (28-29, 29-28, 29-28)
• 185 lbs.: Ryan Gandra def. Ozzy Diaz by TKO (punches), round 1 (2:04) — HIGHLIGHTS

Early ‘Prelims’

• 185 lbs.: Edmen Shahbazyan def. Brunno Ferreira by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27)
• 125 lbs.: Casey O’Neill def. Eduarda Moura by submission (armbar), round 1 (3:22) — HIGHLIGHTS
• 145 lbs.: Joanderson Brito def. Giga Chikadze by KO (hammerfists), round 1 (0:57) — HIGHLIGHTS

UFC 331 PLAY-BY-PLAY UPDATES

Main Card

Alonzo Menifield vs. Iwo Baraniewski

Round 1: Menifield is swinging for the fences, but Baraniewski is able to dodge those early shots. Baraniewski looks a lot more selective with his strikes this time. He lands some good single shots and then gets out of range. He rocks Menifield with one of those and then a looping counter as Menifield rumbles forwards. They clinch and Menifield digs for a takedown on the fence. Baraniewski pushes him off and things get wild. They both throw bombs and Menifield takes the worst of it. Baraniewski then takes Menifield down. He passes the mount and Menifield gives up his back. Menifield manages to work himself up to his feet. Baraniewski hurts him with some more punches, but Menifield last to the buzzer.

10-9 Baraniewski

Round 2: Menifield comes out swinging again. He lands a combo and Baraniewski clinches him up. Baraniewski lands some good knees to the body. Menifield stuns him with a jab. Baraniewski responds with a big body shot. Baraniewski then blitzes with a combo. More clinching follows and Menifield lands a good uppercut. Baraniewski lands a big overhand. Menifield keeps answering back, though.

19-19

Round 3: Menifield appears to have a broken thumb, but he’s allowed to continue. Both men have slowed down a lot now. Baraniewski holds Menifield against the fence. The referee breaks it up. They brawl, but it’s not at a very high pace, both are sticking each other with punches, though. It’s a tough round to score, but I think Baraniewski just did enough.

29-28 Baraniewski

Official decision: Alonzo Menifield def. Iwo Baraniewski by split decision (28-29, 29-28, 29-28)

Prelims

Marlon Vera vs. Charles Jourdain: Vera and Jourdain fought inside a phone booth early on, but that started to ware down Jourdain who seemed to be at both a power and durability disadvantage. As Jourdain slowed down, Vera started landing bigger and bigger shots. In the third round he cracked Jourdain with a big hook that sent Jourdain down (after a delay). Jourdain waved ‘no mas’ after he hit the ground.

Official decision: Marlon Vera def. Charles Jourdain by TKO (punch), round 3 (2:02)

Tai Tuivasavs. Robelis Despaigne: Despaigne slung punches from his hip to start things off and tagged Tuivasa a bunch. Tuivasa landed some big shots of his own then. Tuivasa pulled Despaigne down on top of him in the first, but got out of trouble. He then got on top of Despaigne, who was exhausted by that point. Tuivasa hurt Despaigne with an overhand left in the second. He then pressed him into the fence while Joe Rogan said Despaigne might have “the worst cardio ever.” Despaigne then hit a desperation judo throw into side mount. He then tried to take a nap there. In the third, both were dead on their feet, but they were willing to throw. Tuivasa landed a nice shot, but also got hip tossed towards the end of the round. Despaigne landed some good ground and pound this time. That was likely enough to get Despaigne the round and the fight.

Official decision: Robelis Despaigne def. Tai Tuivasa by split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)

Michael Aswell Jr. vs. Joo Sang Yoo: The crowd weren’t in love with this one. These two patiently traded strikes in a pretty low intensity kickboxing match for the first two rounds (which Aswell was clearly winning). In the third, Yoo felt some urgency and started to land some big shots and then got a takedown. Yoo needed a finish then, but didn’t do nearly enough to make one happen.

Official decision: Michael Aswell Jr. def. Joo Sang Yoo by split decision (28-29, 29-28, 29-28)

Ryan Gandra vs. Ozzy Diaz: Gandra took a minute or so to size up Diaz. After that he blitzed forwards and rocked Diaz with a combo. Gandra didn’t wait around and admire his work, he kept throwing and put Diaz down along the fence for yet another quick TKO.

Official decision: Ryan Gandra def. Ozzy Diaz by TKO (punches), round 1 (2:04)

Early Prelims

Edmen Shahbazayan vs. Brunno Ferreira: Ferreira looked lean, but it took him until the third round to look mean. Shahbazyan kept him at bay early with calf kicks. Ferreira responded with teeps to the knee, which Shahbazyan seemed to think was illegal. In the third Ferreira tried to bring the chaos, but it was too little too late.

Official decision: Edmen Shahbazyan def. Brunno Ferreira by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27)

Casey O’Neill vs. Eduarda Moura: Wow! O’Neill got taken down off the first kick she threw. Moura then smothered her and was close on an anaconda choke. O’Neill stayed calm, though. After the threat of the choke was over, O’Neill used the butterfly guard to push Moura into the air and then she caught Moura in an armbar on the way down. And then she made her tap!

Official decision: Casey O’Neill def. Eduarda Moura by submission (armbar), round 1 (3:22)

Giga Chikadze vs. Joanderson Brito: Chikadze started very well, stinging Brito with a blocked head kick. Chikadze was really flowing after that, but then he slipped on a kick attempt. Brito then got on top of him and unloaded! He put Chikadze out with brutal hammerfists.

Official decision: Joanderson Brito def. Giga Chikadze by KO (hammerfists), round 1 (0:57)

Live stream begins at 5:30 p.m. ET. …

For more UFC 330: “Makhachev vs. Garry” news and notes be sure to hit up our comprehensive event archive right here.

UCLA will begin their Big Ten slate this year with a favorable matchup, facing off against a 1-1 Purdue team that lost in double overtime against Wake Forest last week. If UCLA plans to make any noise in the Big Ten this season, it must start with a win against the Boilermakers in Week 3.

Follow along for highlights, injury news, key plays, and instant breakdown as UCLA takes on Purdue in a Big Ten showdown.

This article originally appeared on UCLA Wire: Week 3 Purdue vs UCLA live updates: Score, highlights, analysis

The Denver Broncos are turning to local product and veteran running back Adam Prentice, a fullback who has shown he is capable of more than just being a lead blocker at the NFL level during his five-plus-year career.

This will be Prentice’s second straight week of action.

This continues an important countdown for the Broncos moving forward. He is not the only one, either, as they prepare to host the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 2.

“The Broncos have added a pair of veterans to their game-day roster for the second consecutive week,” DenverBroncos.com’s Aric DiLalla wrote on September 19. “Denver elevated long snapper Mitchell Fraboni and fullback Adam Prentice from the practice squad to the active roster, the team announced Saturday.

“Fraboni has served as the Broncos’ long snapper for each game since the start of the 2023 season. A sixth-year veteran, Prentice played 12 percent of the Broncos’ offensive snaps and 68 percent of their special teams snaps in Week 1.”

The Broncos can call each player up once more.

After that, they must sign them to the 53-man roster or find another option. Given their respective roles, finding room for them on the 53-man roster makes sense.

Broncos Set for Key Decisions on Adam Prentice, Mitchell Fraboni

Prentice, 29, is a former Colorado State Rams standout. Prentice began his pro career with the Broncos as an undrafted free agent in 2021.

“Though he was never much of an offensive threat with the Rams, Prentice displayed solid blocking ability, toughness and a great work ethic,” Travis Wakeman wrote for Predominantly Orange in 2021.

“Prentice was given minimal carries (20) during his college career but he did show the ability to catch the ball when his number was called. At the professional level, he would be trying to make a roster as a primary blocker who could be used in short-yardage situations or as a receiver that leaks out of the backfield on passing plays.”

Prentice set career highs with 10 carries for 44 yards and 6 catches for 53 yards in 2025.

Prentice and Broncos head coach Sean Payton first crossed paths during their shared time with the New Orleans Saints. They have been reunited in Denver.

Fraboni, in his fifth season out of Arizona State. He began his career there as a defensive end, before transitioning to special teams. Fraboni entered the league as a UDFA with the Houston Texans,

He has also spent time with the Arizona Cardinals.

Fraboni also took his talents to the USFL, playing for the Pittsburgh Maulers. The Maulers selected Fraboni in the 35th round with the 278th overall pick.

This article was originally published on HEAVY

The post Broncos Add Homegrown Ex-Saints Running Back, Texans Find for Jaguars Game appeared first on HEAVY.

GREENVILLE, Pa. (WKBN) - Greenville shut out Lakeview, 41-0, during high school football action on Saturday.

Trojans quarterback Cael Thurber racked up 4 total touchdowns (2 passing, 2 rushing) in the first half. Both of his touchdown passes went to Justin Schell, one from 14 yards and another 63-yard touchdown in the final minute of the first half.

In the second half, Landon Porter and Swayze Walker added touchdowns during the 41-point victory.

The loss drops Lakeview to 2-2 on the season. The Sailors will host Cochranton on Friday, Sept. 25.

With the win, Greenville improves to 4-0 and will host Slippery Rock also on Friday, Sept. 25.

The Blugolds rolled up 409 yards, held the Firebirds to 89 yards and excelled on special teams in a 40-0 rout on a rainy Saturday afternoon at historic Carson Park.

UWEC pitched its first shutout in two years with a masterful performance.

UW-Eau Claire went 3-0 in its non-conference schedule for the second straight year, but its coaches and players are convinced this team is much better than the one that went winless in the WIAC last year.

"Last year, our non-conference games maybe weren't the best competition and gave us false hope," UWEC coach Rob Erickson said. "This year, we played three really good teams. We scheduled some better teams to set us up for WIAC competition.

"To come out 3-0 with this schedule gives us a lot more confidence. Those games set us up well for conference play."

UW-Eau Claire quarterback Ayden Helder has a similar view.

"We have a lot more confidence and experience than we did last year," he said. "There is a level of maturity this team has. We just have to keep doing what we are good at and keep trusting each other. We just need to keep it rolling."

The Blugolds were simply fantastic Saturday, bolting to a 23-0 halftime advantage where they actually could have led by more.

Helder ran for two short touchdowns while also connecting with teammate Levi Pooley on a 52-yard scoring strike.

"Their defense went to a man look and Pooley ended up being uncovered," Helder said. "The offensive line did a great job protecting me and gave me just enough time to get the pass off. And we made a big play."

Leading 16-0, Erickson called for a fake punt on fourth-and-8 from the UWEC 49. The play worked beautifully as Vince Hanz took a short snap and darted through a big opening for a 31-yard run.

"They are pretty aggressive," Erickson said. "With the formation we had, we had them outnumbered on one side. We decided to run the fake and there was a huge hole. I wish we would have scored on that play."

The Blugolds cashed in three plays later when Helder scored from 4 yards out.

Any thoughts Carthage had of staging a second half rally were extinguished on the first drive after the break.

UW-Eau Claire embarked on an efficient, clock-consuming 72-yard march, capped by running back Paxton Rothmeier's 2-yard TD plunge.

The drive took more than half of the quarter as the Blugolds grabbed a 30-0 lead on the run-heavy 7 minute, 34 second march.

Rothmeier delivered a 33-yard run during the drive and junior tight end Jayce Kolinski caught a 7-yard pass in the red zone on fourth-and-3.

Kolinski had a big day, hauling in five passes for 58 yards.

UWEC totally shut down Carthage with a smothering defensive performance, putting pressure on the quarterback and holding the Firebirds to just 10 yards rushing.

"The game plan was to stop the run and we did that," Blugold junior linebacker Jack Scheldroup said. "We really wanted that shutout. It was great seeing everyone succeed."

"Our defense played very confident and very aggressive," Erickson said. "We shut down their running game and controlled the line of scrimmage."

Nobody appreciates the contributions of the UWEC defense more than the Blugold offense.

"Our defense has been lights out all season," Helder said. "They are doing an absolutely great job. It has made a huge difference. The defense has been phenomenal."

The Blugolds will have next weekend off before starting WIAC play Oct. 3 at home against UW-Stevens Point.

"We are excited to see what we can do in the WIAC," Erickson said. "If we play good football, we know we can play with any team in the country."

Erickson said his team will follow its regular practice routine despite not having a game next Saturday.

Scheldroup said his team is prepared to tackle league play in one of the nation's best conferences.

"There are some great teams in the WIAC," he said. "They will be ready to play and we have to be ready to play. We just have to keep working hard and rise to the occasion.

"The first thing we say before every drive is let's go out and have fun.

Blugold players have the word "CLIMB" on the back of their helmets.

"We just have to keep climbing the mountain," Scheldroup said. "That's our motto and that's what we live by. There are peaks and there are valleys. We just have to keep climbing."

Some decorated in war paint, others wearing race hoods, they sprinted around the half-mile track, their riders using nothing but their legs and a pair of reins to keep balance.

Horse racing may be on a global decline, but that doesn’t mean what’s left should be any less intense. Nor should tradition, rules or structure be changed simply to attract an audience.

But the Indian Relay Championship of Champions wouldn’t need to. This elite event is an adrenaline rush for crowds, riders and equines alike. It brings together champion teams of all ages through men’s, women’s, junior and kids divisions, and demands a level of strategy to prove they are, in fact, “the best.”

The competition has been active for 10 years, though the Indian Relay, “America’s first extreme sport,” dates back centuries. Exactly how far back is difficult to pinpoint.

Jamie Howard, a member of the Horse Nations Indian Relay Council Board of Directors, theorizes that the sport’s intense maneuvering — quickly dismounting a sprinting horse, taking a few steps, then mounting another — could have originated in battle.

But as time goes on, stories can be lost in memory and left undocumented. According to Howard, that’s why the Indian Relay Championship of Champions exists.

“We just had this opportunity to move a little farther south, closer to the population, because our whole goal was to take an event that is centuries old on the reservations and bring it to the public eye,” said Howard, referring to how this will be the championship’s first year in Cheyenne. The Championship of Champions has an international appeal, with visitors coming from as far away as Germany, where Indian Relays remains virtually nonexistent.

While going into detail about the competition, Howard emphasized one word: “their.”

“We don’t intervene in any of their rules, any of their operations. They run them how they want to run them,” said Howard.

The event isn’t meant to change, but rather to honor, traditions built over generations within Native communities — from the sport itself and the traditional adornments of riders and horses to the Native dancing that accompanies the event.

Cheyenne Frontier Days CEO Tom Hirsig echoed that sentiment.

“We’re happy to be having them come here to utilize our facilities, but it’s completely their event … (and) it’s a great event to watch,” he said. “They have to be incredible horse people to do what they do … being able to handle horses, to change horses, to understand the horses is an incredible talent they have.”

After months of competing in Tour of Champions Indian Relay races, competitors from horse nations across the U.S. and Canada are narrowed down to their community champions, who then advance to the Championship of Champions.

For those unfamiliar with the action of Indian Relay, Howard explained what to expect on the Frontier Park track.

For the men’s relay, there are three horses per team, with four members — one rider and three handlers: the back holder, the setup man and the mugger.

The rider begins standing next to the horse. When the horn sounds, the rider jumps onto the horse, bareback, and takes off on the first lap around the half-mile track at a full sprint.

In the meantime, the back holder brings in the next horse from a box next to the grandstands onto the track, where the setup man adjusts the horse’s position.

When the rider finishes the lap, the mugger has to catch the bullet train of a horse. Fail, and it’s an automatic disqualification. One step. Two steps. The rider mounts the second horse and sprints to complete the next lap before repeating the exchange for the final stretch.

It doesn’t sound complicated, but the exchange actually requires a tremendous amount of strategy, said Howard. The placement, the order, the angle, when they run after the rider mounts: it all revolves around the horse.

Even though about 90% of the horses come from professional racetracks, they require a lot of training to adjust to the atmosphere and to be able to sprint the full track — doing a mile-long track like the Kentucky Derby would be too strenuous for the horse.

“Some horses don’t like to stand. They get too excited,” Howard explained. The team has to learn to read their horses, earn their trust and accommodate their habits so they don’t waste time.

When it comes to rules, there are few differences between the men’s and women’s divisions. The latter uses two horses for two laps compared to three, and riders can be assisted in mounting.

Howard said that although the junior and kids’ divisions are limited to ponies and shorter distances — the kids’ track will be an oval around two barrels in front of the grandstands — they provide an entry point into Indian Relay. He emphasized the importance of giving youth a gateway to train before they move up to the “big leagues.”

“Most teams were born since we started, but their families have done it for so long, and (there are) family names that have been in it for a long time,” he said. “From different tribes, different reservations, different areas of the country … a lot of it has been generational.”

Blackfeet, Sioux, Crow Nation ... there are 15 tribal nations competing in the 10th annual Championship of Champions. No room for hesitation. Not one extra step. No second to spare.

While some grandstands are disappearing, the horse nations are not. These champions ride not only for the thrill of the race, but to push forward a time-honored tradition built on the trust between horse and human.

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Keelon Russell threw for 320 yards and three touchdowns and ran for another score as No. 10 Alabama overcame a 15-point deficit to beat Florida State 50-36 on Saturday.

The Crimson Tide (3-0) struggled to run the ball early and had few answers for Florida State’s explosive plays. Once Alabama settled in, the Seminoles (1-2) struggled to slow it down.

Russell completed 23 of 30 passes without an interception, and Alabama finished with 615 yards. Lotzeir Brooks caught eight passes for 101 yards.

Lightning delayed kickoff and interrupted the second quarter, and the teams agreed to skip halftime after the second delay.

Alabama scored touchdowns on five consecutive possessions across the second and third quarters to turn a 21-6 deficit into a 40-28 lead.

Ryan Coleman-Williams turned a short completion into a 46-yard touchdown, and Russell found Kaleb Edwards for the go-ahead score before the break.

Florida State cut the deficit to seven midway through the fourth quarter. Trae’shawn Brown answered with a 20-yard touchdown run with 2:15 remaining, capping a 90-yard drive. Bray Hubbard intercepted Ashton Daniels’ pass on the ensuing possession.

The takeaway

Florida State: The Seminoles built an early cushion but could not get enough stops to repeat last season’s stunning win over Alabama in Tallahassee.

Alabama: The comeback should ease some nerves for Crimson Tide fans after the first half, but defensive breakdowns and the inconsistent ground performance left plenty to address before returning to Southeastern Conference play.

By HENRY SKLAR Associated Press

• • •

Sign up for our Sports Today newsletter to get daily updates on the Bucs, Rays, Lightning and college football across Florida.

Every weekday, tune into our Sports Day Tampa Bay podcast to hear reporter Rick Stroud break down the biggest stories in Tampa Bay sports.

Never miss out on the latest with your favorite Tampa Bay sports teams. Follow our coverage on X and Facebook.

This is the UFC 331 live blog for Alonzo Menifield vs. Iwo Baraniewski, the main card light heavyweight bout Saturday at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

Menifield (18-7-1) heads into Saturday night’s event as the underdog, but the 205-pound veteran has a habit of spoiling the plans of the matchmakers. This past May, he headed into enemy territory to win a thrilling striking battle against China’s Zhang Mingyang, and was previously the first man to defeat French prospect Oumar Sy. He has won three of his past four fights.

The red-hot Baraniewski (9-0) seeks his fourth UFC victory, with none of his octagon appearances lasting longer than 90 seconds. Baraniewski, 27, debuted with a wild win over Ibo Aslan, and followed that up with a 28-second knockout over Austen Lane before scoring another fast finish against Junior Tafa. With a win over the veteran Menifield, Baraniewski likely finds himself with a number next to his name when the rankings are next updated.

Check out the UFC 331 live blog for Alonzo Menifield vs. Iwo Baraniewski below.

Preamble

All aboard the Iwo Baraniewski hype train! Is he the future light heavyweight GOAT or, as Jed Meshew has suggested, just the 205-pound version of Terrance McKinney? We’ll learn a lot tonight in this matchup with the always game Alonzo Menifield.

Always tell me the odds

The undefeated Baraniewski is a sizable favorite at -295 according to FanDuel, Menifield the underdog at +240.

Round 1

Tentative start, both guys respecting each other’s power. Menifield lands a right, Baraniewski answers with a left hand. Menifield with a good job, but Baraniewski connects with a power punch and that backs Menifield up. Menifield comes forward and gets rocked again. Baraniewski on the offensive, Menifield wisely ties him up.

They separate and Baraniewski immediately starts throwing, he has Menifield hurt. Baraniewski in top position now, working to get to full mount. Menifield survives but he looks rattled as the round comes to a close, Baraniewski continuing to fire.

MMA Fighting scores the round 10-9, Baraniewski.

Round 2

Menifield immediately comes out swinging and Baraniewski just eats it. No way these guys can keep fighting like this without someone getting flattened. Pace finally slows with the fighters pummeling against the fence. Back at distance, Baraniewski and Menifield looking to establish the jab. Baraniewski connects and immediately goes headhunting, Menifield with good movement to stay out of danger. Neither guy looks particularly fresh right now and there’s a lot of fight left.

Gnarly fight inside, Menifield scoring. Whenever he gets going, though, one good counter from Baraniewski gives him pause. Baraniewski beating Menifield to the punch, Menifield’s chin is holding up. Menifield with a right across the chin. He ends the round as the aggressor. Close, close round.

MMA Fighting scores the round 10-9, Menifield. Overall, 19-19.

Round 3

Before the round starts, they’re bringing in a doctor to check on Menifield’s hand. All good. The broadcast zooms in and it looks like his thumb is mangled. Eep.

Quick flurry from Menifield and Baraniewski ties him up. He’s pressuring Menifield against the fence. Action has slowed to a crawl. This could be good for Baraniewski with his gas tank not exactly at peak capacity right now. Menifield reverses position and now he has fence control. Crowd boos the lack of action. Menifield trying to throw short punches, but Baraniewski stays locked on to him.

We get a separation with about 90 seconds to go. They trade jabs, Menifield with a slight advantage as it looks like he has more energy. The veteran might pull this off. This is a Menifield round for me, but could go Baraniewski’s way if he got the first two.

MMA Fighting scores the round 10-9, Menifield. Overall, 29-28 Menifield.

Official result: Alonzo Menifield def. Iwo Baraniewski via split decision (29-28 x2, 28-29)

Post-fight

Menifield calls Baraniewski “awesome” and then downplays his thumb injury, saying his problems are nothing compared to that of homeless people. He says his mom used to have to search through trash when he was growing up, “Where I come from, this is my background, I have to be [tough].”

Chivas Femenil returned to winning ways in a match defined by the control they maintained throughout the 90 minutes, defeating Xolos 2-0 at Estadio Caliente on Matchday 8 of the Apertura 2026.

The Rebaño took the field fully intent on claiming all 3 points, and from the opening moments looked to create danger in front of the home side’s goal. Antonio Contreras’ side found set pieces to be one of their main ways of getting close to the opposing net. During the opening stretch, Chivas had several chances, but the ball just would not find the back of the net. Even so, Guadalajara kept pushing, and the reward came in the 39th minute. Denise Castro was there to pounce on a rebound inside the box and send it into the back of the net.

With the score in their favor, the Rojiblancas approached the second half with the mission of protecting the lead, without stopping the fight until the final whistle. Xolos tried to respond, but the Rebaño’s defensive work kept Blanca Félix’s clean sheet intact. Late in the match, Chivas also had another chance to widen the gap. In the 87th minute, a shot taken by Alicia Cervantes beat the wall and crossed the goal line; however, it was ruled offside by the referee. Even so, the Rojiblancas’ finishing touch arrived in stoppage time. In the 94th minute, a brilliant move by Guadalajara once again found ‘Licha’ inside the box, and she sent the ball into the back of the net to make it the final 2-0.

With this result, Chivas Femenil earned an important victory that keeps them in second place in Group B with 15 points. Now, Guadalajara will prepare for another road test, as they will visit Cruz Azul next Friday, September 25, in a Matchday 9 clash of AP26 at Estadio Centenario de Morelos at 7 PM.

The goals

- Denise came through for the Rebaño! In the 39th minute, Denise Castro tucked away a rebound to give the Rojiblancas the lead.

- A brilliant team move to seal the match! In the 94th minute, the finishing touch fell to Alicia Cervantes, who finished inside the box to put the game out of reach.

The dangerous chances

- NATALIAAAA! In the 16th minute, Natalia Colin took a corner that struck the far post, though the ball ended up just drifting wide.

- In the 18th minute, Joseline Montoya unleashed an absolute rocket inside the Xolos box, but the defense came up with the block.

- In the 21st minute, the Rojiblancas created danger once again from a corner kick, with a delivery into a dangerous area that forced the Tijuana defense to work hard to clear the ball.

- ONCE AGAIN 'LICHAAAA'! In the 87th minute, Cervantes took a free kick that ended up crossing the goal line, but it was ruled offside by the referee.

Tijuana 0-2 Guadalajara

(Denise Castro 39’ and Alicia Cervantes 94’)

Referee: Ana Paola Hernández Ortiz

Estadio Caliente

Lineups

Guadalajara: 12 Blanca Félix; 3 Damaris Godínez, 4 Natalia Colín, 5 Cristina Ferral, 21 Samantha López, 14 Natalia Mauleón, 16 Eva González, 25 Joseline Montoya, 22 Denise Castro, 23 Jasmine Casarez, and 24 Alicia Cervantes.

Head Coach: Antonio Contreras

Tijuana: 1 Ana Paz; 3 Jazmín Enrique, 4 Deisy Ojeda, 24 Michel Fong, 7 Jaquelín García, 11 Danielle Fuentes, 17 Amogelang Motau, 27 Laura Parra (Naomi Rojo 89’), 9 Melana Surautsava, 18 Trudi Carter, and 20 Daniela Carrandi.

Head Coach: Fernando Samayoa

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

Final Eagles injury report ahead of Week 2 game vs. Titans appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

After playing Week 1 with (almost) a fully healthy roster, with only Jonathan Greenard on the injury report after Eli Stowers was placed on IR, things aren’t quite so clean for the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 2.

On their final injury report of Week 2, the Eagles featured six players but only two with game statuses. Jalen Carter, Hollywood Brown, Cooper DeJean, and Elijah Moore all missed time during the week but are good to go, while Andrew Mukuba is questionable and Greenard remains out as he works back from the summer pectoral injury.

While there were plenty of talking points coming out of Week 1 on offense, from the big passing plays downfield, to the Eagles’ deceptive run struggles and rookie Makai Lemon’s negative passing yards, on defense, one rose above the rest: Carter injuring his wrist.

Watch sports LIVE with fuboTV (free trial)

Now granted, Carter still played the lion’s share of the snaps for Vic Fangio against the Washington Commanders, playing 66 of a possible 70 defensive snaps, but he was seen at practice days later with a cast on his wrist and thus may not be 100 percent in Nashville against the Tennessee Titans.

And yet, even if Carter may be in pain, it hasn’t forced him out of action, as he is currently a go to play in Week 2, alongside Brown, DeJean, and Moore, who were limited in some way during practice.

Mukuba also found himself on the injury report during the week, but unlike Carter, he remains questionable for the contest and will likely be a gameday decision for Fangio. If Mukuba, like Greenard, is unable to play in Week 2, the Eagles do have a contingency in place, as they’ve officially called up rookie safety Maximus Pulley from the practice squad for the game, but it’s unlikely the former Wofford Terrier would get much action on defense, considering Fangio’s propensity for playing more experienced players more often than not.

On the Titans sideline, Tennessee included three players on their final report of Week 2, with cornerback Cor’Dale Flott questionable with a quad and linebackers Cedric Gray and James Williams questionable with a concussion and elbow, respectively.

Fortunately, while the Eagles have the potential to be without higher-profile players, that shouldn’t slow them down too much in Week 2, as their depth held strong against the Commanders and should remain strong, at least against an opponent like the Titans.

Chivas Femenil returned to winning ways in a match highlighted by the control they maintained throughout the 90 minutes, defeating Xolos 2-0 at Estadio Caliente in Matchday 8 of the Apertura 2026.

The Rebaño took the field determined to claim all 3 points and looked to create danger around the border side's goal from the opening minutes. Antonio Contreras' team found set pieces to be one of their main avenues for getting close to the opposing goal. During the opening half, Chivas created several chances, but the ball could not find the back of the net. However, Guadalajara's persistence never faded, and the reward came in the 39th minute. Denise Castro reacted to a rebound inside the box and sent it into the back of the net.

With the lead in hand, the Rojiblancas entered the second half with the mission of preserving their advantage while continuing to fight until the final minute. Xolos looked to respond, but the Rebaño's defensive work kept a clean sheet for Blanca Félix. In the final stretch, Chivas also had another opportunity to extend the lead. In the 87th minute, a free kick taken by Alicia Cervantes beat the wall and went over the crossbar; however, the play was called offside by the referee. Despite this, the Rojiblanco side's finishing finally came through in stoppage time. In the 94th minute, a great Guadalajara play once again found Alicia Cervantes inside the box, and she sent the ball into the back of the net to make it 2-0.

With this result, Chivas Femenil earned an important victory that keeps them in second place in Group B with 15 points. Guadalajara will now prepare for another away test, as they visit Cruz Azul next Friday, September 25, in a Matchday 9 AP26 clash at Estadio Centenario de Morelos at 7 PM.

The Goals

- Denise stepped up for the Rebaño! In the 39th minute, Denise Castro pounced on a rebound to give the rojiblancas the lead.

- A masterful play to seal the match! In the 94th minute, the finishing touch finally found Alicia Cervantes, who finished inside the box to put the final score on the board.

Dangerous Chances

- NATALIAAAA! In the 16th minute, Natalia Colin took a corner kick that struck the far post, although the ball eventually went just wide.

- In the 18th minute, Joseline Montoya unleashed an absolute rocket from inside the border side's box, but the Xolos defense stepped in to block the effort.

- In the 21st minute, the rojiblancas threatened again from a corner kick, with a delivery into a dangerous area that forced the Tijuana defense to work hard to clear the ball.

- 'LICHAAAA' AGAIN! In the 87th minute, Cervantes took a free kick that crossed the goal line, but the play was called offside by the referee.

Tijuana 0-2 Guadalajara(Denise Castro 39' and Alicia Cervantes 94')Referee: Ana Paola Hernández OrtizStadium: Caliente

Lineups

Guadalajara: 12 Blanca Félix; 3 Damaris Godínez, 4 Natalia Colín, 5 Cristina Ferral, 21 Samantha López, 14 Natalia Mauleón, 16 Eva González, 25 Joseline Montoya, 22 Denise Castro, 23 Jasmine Casarez and 24 Alicia Cervantes.

H.C. Antonio Contreras

Tijuana: 1 Ana Paz; 3 Jazmín Enrique, 4 Deisy Ojeda, 24 Michel Fong, 7 Jaquelín García, 11 Danielle Fuentes, 17 Amogelang Motau, 27 Laura Parra (Naomi Rojo 89'), 9 Melana Surautsava, 18 Trudi Carter and 20 Daniela Carrandi.

H.C. Fernando Samayoa

Fort Valley State, Benedict game defined by almost comeback, heat & score error appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

I’ve been a fan of college football, especially HBCU football, for a long time. I started my HBCU career 11 years ago as a freshman at Fort Valley State, and since then I’ve attended a lot of football games, both as a fan and as a journalist. This is the first day where I quite literally could not stand the heat. I’ve been a fan of college football and specifically HBCU football for a long time. I started my HBCU career 11 years ago as a freshman at Fort Valley State, and now I’ve been to a lot of football games, both as a fan and as a journalist. This is the first day I quite literally couldn’t stand the heat.

When my family and I arrived on site at Wildcat Stadium for the Benedict College versus Fort Valley State game, it was humid but cloudy. The clouds went away rather quickly, though, and it became unbearably hot, so much so that my family and I decided to go into the student center, where we ultimately began to socialize with alumni and community members. We nearly missed Fort Valley State’s comeback and a scoring error that would have likely resulted in the HBCU version of the Michigan-Western Michigan controversy, only for an in-conference matchup.

Benedict College ultimately emerged victorious, 34-33, and the same issues that ultimately have plagued Fort Valley State in the Malon Watson era were showcased. The Wildcats showed tremendous promise against one of the best teams in the conference, and while some things need to change, they showed a level of fight that can carry them through the rest of the season.

Watch sports LIVE with fuboTV (free trial)

Defense saved the day for the Wildcats

Simply put, Fort Valley State’s defense was the Wildcats’ star. The offense, through most of the first three quarters, simply couldn’t move the ball down the field, though there were big plays, such as Roger Payne’s 70-yard touchdown run and Don Hudson’s 12-yard scamper that ignited the Wildcat comeback. The defense prevented Benedict from putting this game out of reach many times. The Wildcats’ defense forced three turnovers from Benedict: one fumble and two interceptions, including an amazing playmaking interception that came off a tackle. The ball then popped into the hands of the Fort Valley State defender, which I saw as a potential turning-point moment for Fort Valley.

We have enough of a sample size of Marlon Watson’s Wildcats competing against some of the best teams that the SIAC and Division II football have to offer. Talent is not the issue, but for Fort Valley State in this era, it’s execution and play calling. The defense has been contending with teams like Delta State, Benedict, and the University of West Alabama, but to truly make that leap to championship level, Fort Valley State has to figure out how to make that offense more competent around Don Hudson Jr.

The offense before the comeback was uninspired

My family and I withstood the heat until early in the fourth quarter. The last play we saw that had us all outdone was Don Hudson handing off to Roger Payne. That was ultimately stuffed by the Benedict College defenders blitzing. That added to the frustration and confusion about what was being called on offense, and whether the offensive line could sustain Don Hudson long enough to make throws in the pocket.

Throughout the game, Hudson did what he normally does: make amazing runs and reads on the run.  But the same problems persisted. It appeared that Don had happy feet in the pocket, and some of the concepts were odd, even though the short shutdown passes were ultimately successful at several points in the game. While I am a fan of Hudson’s ability to play make with his legs and scramble, I think he’ll be better served as a true dual threat. To do that, he has to navigate the pocket before bursting out to run.

The touchdown throw to JT Pendleton that ultimately turned into a 61-yard gain before being stopped at Benedict’s 6-yard line was a perfect example of the proof of concept of what Dine could be if he used his mobility to navigate in the pocket. He stepped up in the pocket and found Pendleton for a great play and a great game.

Now, granted, Benedict, for some reason, decided to rush only three and play a bit of prevent defense, which ultimately led to that huge gain. Of course, that played a part in how Hudson navigated the pocket. Still, that is proof of concept I want to see more of throughout the season, and for as long as Don Hudson will be at Fort Valley State.

Jett Peddy was solid (the box score isn’t telling the full story)

Former Florida A&M Rattler turned Benedict College QB1 Jett Peddy is exactly what the Tigers needed. While Jett had some moments that weren’t ideal, he proved adept at calling the game and using both his arms and his legs to make things happen for Benedict’s offense. That was a great recruiting win for Ron Dickerson and could be the deciding factor for Benedict ultimately making and winning the SIAC championship and advancing into the NCAA Division II playoffs once again.

I was a fan of how you could see him process the field and decide whether to run or pass in tandem with Benedict’s three talented running backs. They put Fort Valley State’s defense in precarious situations that, more often than not, Benedict benefited from. It’s hard not to say this isn’t the best team in the SIAC. I know it’s a long season, and Fort Valley gave them all they could handle, but with Petty under center and a stable of talented running backs who can all make plays, Bearded is a team to watch out for.

The controversial scoring error

The game was ultimately defined by a pretty odd scorekeeping error that could have affected both teams’ strategy. The game was ultimately defined by a pretty odd scorekeeping error that could have affected both teams’ strategy. At the start of the fourth quarter, around the 8-minute mark, Christopher Johnson made a 25-yard rush to the end zone to go up 27-15 after the PAT.

For some reason, the PAT wasn’t reflected on the scoreboard, although he made it, so it read 26-15. In a normal game where Benedict goes on to win, the score discrepancy wouldn’t have mattered much and probably would have been caught after the game. Because of Fort Valley State’s comeback attempt, it became a huge story that left both ESPN+ commentators, Thai Floyd and Sylvester Williams, audibly confused, as well as both teams’ coaches. Fans from both Benedict and Fort Valley State were confused, too.

Ultimately, Benedict was assessed the point, and Fort Valley went on to score two touchdowns to tie the game, but instead of going for the PAT, they went for two on the first touchdown to attempt to make it 26-23 because they thought Benedict had 26. The PAT was unsuccessful and ultimately led to what happened at the end.  I believe that shows how the incorrect score on the scoreboard affected the game, because if they went for the PAT, the score would’ve been 27-22.

The touchdown at the end of the game would have made the score 28-27 with Fort Valley in the lead before the PAT. That scenario would have changed the strategy for both Fort Valley State and Benedict, as Benedict would have had to come back on offense, look to the score to regain the lead, and ultimately secure the victory.

While this doesn’t take away from Benedict’s win, it ultimately is an unfortunate ending to a game that had the opportunity to be one of the games of the year. Nevertheless, Fort Valley State has several things to clean up to ensure this doesn’t happen again, especially against better teams in the SIAC and Division II football.

Related: Marshall Faulk’s starting QB turned him down before joining Southern

Related: Stephen A. Smith makes money move in support of HBCUs

The driver of the No. 45 Toyota emerged in front of the crowd wearing a long, platinum-blonde wig, delivering his own unmistakable salute to Tennessee royalty Dolly Parton.

At a racetrack where subtlety has never exactly been the specialty, Reddick understood the assignment.

The surprise look came as Bristol celebrates Parton during its NASCAR Cup Series weekend, adding another distinctly Tennessee touch to one of the sport’s biggest nights of the year.

And Reddick decided to get in on the celebration himself.

Tyler Reddick channels Dolly Parton at Bristol

Reddick walked onto the driver introductions stage with both arms raised and the blonde wig flowing over his firesuit, leaning all the way into the moment before climbing into his No. 45 SiriusXM Toyota for 500 laps around Bristol’s notoriously unforgiving half-mile.

The disguise wasn’t going to fool anybody.

It didn’t need to.

Parton’s signature blonde hair has been part of her instantly recognizable look for decades, and Reddick’s choice made the inspiration clear without saying a word.

The result was one of the more memorable driver entrances of the night.

It was also a fitting tribute at a venue that has spent the weekend celebrating the people and culture surrounding its Tennessee home. Parton’s connection to East Tennessee runs far deeper than celebrity alone. Born and raised in the Smoky Mountains, she has built a legacy in the region that extends from music and entertainment to philanthropy.

Reddick’s version of a tribute was considerably less formal.

He put on a blonde wig and walked onto the Bristol stage.

Sometimes that’s all you need.

Bristol’s biggest night has been filled with tributes

Reddick’s lighthearted entrance came during a Bristol evening carrying considerably more emotion elsewhere.

The track has also spent the weekend honoring the late Kyle Busch, whose history at Bristol made the venue one of the defining stops of his NASCAR career. Ty Gibbs is driving a special M&M’s tribute scheme, while thousands of fans waved yellow towels during Lap 18 of Saturday night’s race in Busch’s memory.

That made Reddick’s Dolly Parton moment a fun change of pace during a night built around celebration, remembrance and plenty of Tennessee personality.

There are easier ways to walk across a driver introductions stage.

But at Bristol, with Dolly Parton being honored?

The blonde wig was tough to beat.

The Los Angeles Dodgers‘ quest to win their third straight World Series title is alive and well, as they have officially clinched the National League West division with eight games left on their schedule. For now, the team’s main goal involves getting healthy, but even if it can’t, it should still be the favorite to win it all until further notice.

At the trade deadline, the Dodgers did what they always do and went all-in by acquiring the reigning back-to-back American League Cy Young winner, Tarik Skubal, in a trade with the Detroit Tigers. It was almost expected that L.A. would be the team landing Skubal, but according to general manager Andrew Friedman, this was actually a move the team was hoping to avoid having to make.

Andrew Friedman Drops Truth Bomb on Dodgers’ Tarik Skubal Trade

With the Tigers failing to sign Skubal to a long-term contract extension over the offseason, he ended up being the big fish that every team wanted at the trade deadline. Of course, landing Skubal was going to require a massive haul of prospects, which is something the Dodgers always seem to have at their disposal.

Los Angeles has developed a reputation for simply being willing to go above and beyond what every other team in the majors is willing to do. Whether it involves shelling out more money for the top free agents, or giving up whatever prospects a team wants for its top player, the Dodgers are always making moves, which is why it wasn’t a surprise to see them land Skubal.

Despite that aforementioned narrative continuing to swirl around the team, Los Angeles has claimed that it didn’t want to have to make this sort of move this year. According to Friedman, the list of the Dodgers’ trade targets started and ended with Skubal, which could help explain why they were so willing to part with several of their top prospects for a guy who is set to hit the free agent market in just a couple of months.

“We looked to do everything we could over the offseason to avoid being a buyer in July, short of a real impact-type talent,” Friedman said, per Tom Verducci of Sports Illustrated. “And so, from our standpoint, our buy side list was Tarik Skubal. End of list.”

Dodgers’ All-In Mindset Could Lead MLB to a Lockout

Trading Skubal was always going to be risky for all 29 other teams in the majors because if he hits the open market, the Dodgers are going to be the favorite to sign him. Without a true salary cap in place, nothing is stopping Los Angeles from spending above and beyond what every other team is spending on its roster, and it has put that theory to the test over the past few years.

It’s gotten to the point where a lockout feels inevitable, as the Collective Bargaining Agreement will expire at the conclusion of the season, and there has been virtually no momentum towards a new deal. For now, the Dodgers are intent on winning another championship, but their actions could wind up being at the center of a very important discussion this offseason, with many folks viewing the Skubal trade as the final nail in the coffin.

This article was originally published on HEAVY

The post Dodgers GM Sends Honest Message on Tarik Skubal Trade appeared first on HEAVY.

Indiana football news: Charlie Becker gets NFL draft interest appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Indiana football took on Western Kentucky in Week 3 amid injuries to two defensive tackles and came through with flying colors, winning 38-0 at Memorial Stadium in Bloomington. Curt Cignetti’s Hoosiers entered the week as a riser in the college football power rankings and took care of business behind 127 receiving yards from Charlie Becker.

Following the game, NFL insider Jordan Schultz revealed that scouts are keeping a close watch on the 6-foot-4, 210-pound Indiana receiver, who possesses traits that could get him drafted early.

“Keep a close eye on Indiana star WR Charlie Becker: 6-4, 210 pounds with game-breaking speed, elite athleticism and burst — with 5 TDs in three games this season. It’s early, but the NFL clubs I’ve spoke with are raving about his pro-style game already.”

Watch sports LIVE with fuboTV (free trial)

Becker, still a junior, had four catches for 64 yards in Cignetti’s team’s 27-21 win over the Miami Hurricanes in the 2025-26 national championship game and has only improved since. His size allows him to make contested catches over smaller defenders while his hands, route-running and speed continue to impress.

Becker was discussed as a future WR2 in the NFL before the season with some scouts believing he is even faster than Omar Cooper, who also starred against the Hurricanes last season and ran a 4.42 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine. Hoosiers quarterback Josh Hoover has looked good since transferring from TCU this offseason, giving Indiana plenty of momentum heading into Week 4 against Aidan Chiles and the Northwestern Wildcats.

October 17, a showcase game against Ohio State in Bloomington, will give Becker a chance to duel with Buckeyes superstar Jeremiah Smith. Win that game, and Becker could find himself in early-round territory by the time the 2027 NFL Draft rolls around.

Related: Cincinnati RB secures comeback win over Miami (Ohio) with bonkers 52-yard TD run

Related: Dez Bryant sends message to LSU football before things get ‘ugly’ vs. Ole Miss

Deshaun Watson played his best football with the Houston Texans before his NFL career started going downhill with controversies and injuries.

The Texans traded up 13 places to get Watson, who had played college football at Clemson.

It was pure brilliance from Watson from the moment he wore the Texans jersey, with top performances in his rookie season itself.

However, his rookie season was cut short due to an ACL injury, but Watson came back for a massive sophomore season and ended up putting up top performances to make it to three consecutive All-Pro teams.

In 2020, Watson began negotiations with the Texans for his extension. It seemed like that would be the best decision the team could make, as he had proven himself to be a top QB in the league.

However, the franchise had a lot to think about according to an NFL Insider.

Watson’s behaviour off the field was the problem

Having come off his career-best year, it was certain that Watson was always going to be given the contract he was looking for.

But the Texans had appointed Jack Easterby as their executive vice president of football operations. According to NFL Insider, Tom Pelissero, he was not keen on extending Watson’s contract.

“Some on staff didn’t want to extend Watson at all—most notably then–executive vice president of football operations Jack Easterby, who had arrived from New England in 2019 with designs on resetting the building and immediately had friction with Watson.

“While often electric on the field, he was frequently late to meetings, wanted increased influence over personnel and coaching decisions, and had trouble correcting some on-field shortcomings, such as a cadence that coaches felt was contributing to pre-snap penalties,” wrote Pelissero on his Substack.

The Texans eventually ended up extending him on a four-year, $156 million deal. Watson only played one year before deciding to sit out the next, as he was looking for a trade away from the franchise.

Eventually, a few off-the-field issues came into the open, which ideally should have decreased his value, but the Cleveland Browns decided to give him a chance, and offered him a five-year $230 million deal.

Since then, he has only played 20 games for them and has been the subject of constant criticism from fans and the media.

Read more: