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Here is the team’s updated injury report for Week 14.
Pete Carroll was really thrown for a loop when the NFL added a 17th game to the schedule last season. It’s a five-day span that will likely decide if Seattle (7-5) has a chance at winning the NFC West or if it will be fighting for one of the final playoff spots in the NFC. Before worrying about their division foe, the Seahawks can’t overlook the Panthers. | 2022-12-09T00:47:58Z | sports.yahoo.com | Seahawks Week 14 injury report: Geno Smith limited on Thursday | https://sports.yahoo.com/seahawks-week-14-injury-report-002638353.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/seahawks-week-14-injury-report-002638353.html?src=rss |
What's next in Giants' free-agency chase for superstar? originally appeared on NBC Sports Bayarea
SAN DIEGO -- At 7:03 a.m. on Wednesday morning, about two hours after Farhan Zaidi had been informed that his pursuit of Aaron Judge had failed, an email hit the inboxes of fans who are signed up for alerts about Giants tickets offers.
"Choose the best seats, discounts and perks for you for 2023," it read.
Missing out on Judge was the latest gut punch for the front office, but also for a fan base that has vocally been demanding a better product in recent years and voted with its wallets in 2022. It is well-known among rival front office members that the Giants just drew their lowest non-pandemic attendance in Oracle Park's history and have watched their season ticket base get cut in half in recent years. Agents know it, too.
The Giants are still confident they can come away from this offseason with a much-improved roster. Mitch Haniger gives them some needed right-handed pop and should allow Joc Pederson to be the DH just about every day, a role in which Gabe Kapler said he will be an "elite" option.
The Giants have plenty of interest in Carlos Correa, although the 11-year deals to fellow shortstops Trea Turner and Xander Bogaerts will lead that bidding to an uncomfortable spot, especially for a Giants front office that does have some concerns about Correa's ability to stay healthy into his thirties. Still, if the Giants decide Correa is their best bet at a star, it's hard to see any of the other suitors -- most notably the Twins -- outbidding them.
In the hours after Judge made his decision, Zaidi said he's confident he can pivot in a positive way. But this offseason is about more than that. Zaidi was asked if he can still have a winter that fans find compelling.
"Our goal is to be as good of a team as we can possibly be. I know we sound like a broken record there. We have great fans and they'll get behind a good team, a playoff team. I really believe that," he said. "We weren't a playoff team last year. I think some of the criticisms or some of the dissatisfaction is just an offshoot of the fact that we were sitting at home in October. If we're playing in October, which is our goal every year, I think that -- again that's not the ultimate goal -- but I think everything will go a lot better if we can reach that (postseason) goal on a regular basis.
"I think that's what our fans are looking for."
Even with a splash, it likely would take years for the Giants to fully recover from the impact of the pandemic. They were always boosted by walk-up ticket sales from people who worked downtown, and it's unclear if the city's financial district and SoMa will ever get back to normal levels of occupancy. The Giants will need to be more reliant on people commuting into the city to attend games, and someone like Judge would have helped that effort quite a bit.
If the next move is Correa, the Giants will be coming away from this offseason with a new superstar to sell to fans, as well as a boost for the clubhouse. Correa has a great reputation within the game and it wouldn't take long for him to win over the entirety of the fan base, but there's likely no realistic offseason addition the Giants could make at this point that would have fans rushing to buy season tickets, especially on the heels of the failed Judge pursuit.
RELATED: How Judge signing with Yankees brought end to Giants' dream
Ohtani is perhaps the most unique player the game has ever seen and brings tremendous marketing opportunities, which means the Giants won't just be trying to outbid one other team. Ohtani would be a fit anywhere, and a Giants ownership group that has a string of runner-up finishes would have to outbid Steve Cohen and the Mets, the Dodgers (who are heavily rumored to be waiting on Ohtani), and many others.
Others will come available, including Juan Soto -- the Padres have to run out of money at some point, right? -- who hits free agency in two years. But as the Giants look for their next superstar attraction, they likely will have to turn to their past, some team officials said this week.
"You look at our run that we had in '10, '12 and '14, it was largely led by homegrown talent," he said after joining the ownership group. "Now, obviously you can supplement and you can add pieces to that homegrown talent, but the hopes and dreams is that there's a handful of guys down there in the system right now that want to come up and really understand the opportunity that they have to be the next group of players that the city of San Francisco and the fanbase of the San Francisco Giants is going to get to attach themselves to for hopefully 10, 12, 15 years."
Some Giants people still hear grumbles over the team losing Matt Duffy, and perhaps Vaun Brown or someone else will replicate that path to popularity. The Giants remain very high on Marco Luciano, even after a year filled with back issues, and it's possible that at some point soon they just move him to right field and hope that can accelerate the timeline to Oracle Park, where his power would be a draw.
The Giants missed out on Judge, but they're hopeful that the next group that brings fans rushing to Oracle Park is on the way through their system. Waiting for prospects takes tremendous patience, though, and as the Giants were reminded on Wednesday, the Bay Area is tired of waiting. | 2022-12-09T01:12:23Z | sports.yahoo.com | What's next in Giants' MLB superstar chase after Aaron Judge pursuit fails? | https://sports.yahoo.com/whats-next-giants-mlb-superstar-213511811.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/whats-next-giants-mlb-superstar-213511811.html?src=rss |
Slugging outfielder Aaron Judge chose pinstripes for life Wednesday, when he and the New York Yankees reportedly agreed to a nine-year, $360 million contract. While a long-term deal for Judge was always going to be at least $300 million, the 30-year-old made a bet on himself in spring training by turning down a seven-year, $213.5 million offer from the Yankees.
Judge then proceeded to have the season of his life, setting an American League home run record by smashing 62 dingers and winning the AL MVP award. Now, just over a month into free agency, he has received a well-earned contract that contains two years and more than $145 million more than what he was originally offered.
Where does Judge's contract rank among the four major American men's sports? Let's take a tour through the three biggest contracts in each sport to get some context and see where he lands.
1. QB Patrick Mahomes, Kansas City Chiefs: 10 years, $450 million ($141 million guaranteed)
Mahomes, one of the best quarterbacks in football and already considered an all-time great, signed a contract in July 2020 that is the largest in the four major U.S. sports. However, NFL contracts aren't fully guaranteed; Mahomes is guaranteed to make $141 million, which is about 31% of his contract value. But barring unforeseen circumstances, he'll make a whole lot more than that.
2. QB Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills: Six years, $258 million ($150 million guaranteed)
Allen signed his big deal with the Bills in August 2021, and while Buffalo wouldn't have given him that contract if the organization didn't believe he was the real thing, the following season he proved beyond a shadow of a doubt that he is a bona fide superstar who can lead and produce under pressure. If you need help remembering, just flip on the highlights of last year's AFC divisional playoff game between the Bills and Chiefs, and it will all come rushing back to you.
3. QB Russell Wilson, Denver Broncos: Five years, $245 million ($161 million guaranteed)
The 33-year-old Wilson signed this giant deal with the Broncos in September 2022, six months after the Seattle Seahawks traded him. It hasn't exactly been going well for Wilson in Denver, but he's just 13 games into his contract, with 72 more regular-season games to go.
1. Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets: Five years, $272 million
After Jokic won back-to-back MVP awards, the Nuggets opened their vault, loaded up a Brinks truck and sent it straight to Jokic's house.
2. Bradley Beal, Washington Wizards: Five years, $251 million
The Wizards are the only team Beal has ever played for, and with the contract he signed in early July 2022, he'll be with the organization for at least five more years.
3. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks: Five years, $228.2 million
Bucks fans were an absolute mess in December 2020, waiting to see whether beloved superstar Giannis would sign a supermax contract by the deadline or become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season. Those fans cheered when Giannis signed and then celebrated their brains out when he brought home the championship trophy seven months later.
Aaron Judge's contract doesn't come close to Mike Trout's $426.5 million extension. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez)
1. CF Mike Trout, Los Angeles Angels: 12 years, $426.5 million
Trout has been the best player in baseball pretty much since he made his debut in 2011, and in 2019, he signed a contract with the Angels that paid him like it. He has won three MVPs (including 2019, the year he signed) and nine Silver Sluggers and has been named an All-Star 10 times. MLB contracts are fully guaranteed, so that money is all Trout's.
2. RF Mookie Betts, Los Angeles Dodgers: 12 years, $365 million
Betts, one of the most dynamic and exciting players in baseball, signed a massive contract with the Dodgers in 2020, just five months after he was traded by the Boston Red Sox. He has continued to shine and helped the team win the 2020 World Series in his first season in L.A.
3. OF Aaron Judge, New York Yankees: Nine years, $360 million
Judge's contract is worth $5 million less than Betts' on the whole, but Judge will make $10 million per year more than Betts because his contract is three years shorter.
Aaron Judge has signed a massive contract with the Yankees, and it's one of the biggest in the four major U.S. men's sports. (Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports)
1. Shea Weber, Vegas Golden Knights: 14 years, $110 million
Weber signed this front-loaded, 14-year, $110 million offer sheet from the Philadelphia Flyers following the 2012 season, which the Nashville Predators, Weber's first team, matched five days later. The NHL-NHLPA collective bargaining agreement was later changed to prevent teams from giving out a contract such as this again.
2. Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh Penguins: 12 years, $104.4 million
Sid the Kid wasn't always known as one of the greatest players of all time, but by 2012, when he signed with the Penguins for 12 years, he was essentially there. A $104 million contract paid him like the GOAT he was and still is.
3. Connor McDavid, Edmonton Oilers: Eight years, $100 million
McDavid's contract is the most recent on the list, signed in 2017. At the time, the annual value of $12.5 million was the highest in NHL history, and in the five years since, McDavid has been so productive that it's easy to argue he has been underpaid.
Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce already owns the NFL record for 1,000-yard seasons by a tight end, but he’s threatening to put that record out of reach. Kelce has 968 receiving yards this season, so if he adds 32 more on Sunday against the Broncos, he’ll reach 1,000 on the year. That would make 2022 [more]
Terry Rozier with a 2-pointer vs the Brooklyn Nets
Terry Rozier (Charlotte Hornets) with a 2-pointer vs the Brooklyn Nets, 12/07/2022 | 2022-12-09T01:12:29Z | sports.yahoo.com | Where does Aaron Judge's $360 million Yankees contract rank among the NFL, NBA, MLB and NHL? | https://sports.yahoo.com/where-does-aaron-judges-360-million-yankees-contract-rank-among-the-nfl-nba-mlb-and-nhl-212624342.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/where-does-aaron-judges-360-million-yankees-contract-rank-among-the-nfl-nba-mlb-and-nhl-212624342.html?src=rss |
Alabama outside linebacker Will Anderson Jr. is the recipient of the 2022 Chuck Bednarik Award as the best defensive player in college football. Anderson is the third member of the Crimson Tide to win the award, joining Jonathan Allen (2016) and Minkah Fitzpatrick (2017).
In the 2022 regular season, Anderson amassed 51 total tackles, 17 tackles for loss, 10 sacks and an interception returned for a touchdown.
It’s unclear whether Anderson will participate in Alabama’s Sugar Bowl matchup against Kansas State. If he does, that will likely be his final game with the Crimson Tide. He is currently projected to be a top-five overall selection in the upcoming 2023 NFL draft.
The Best Defensive Player in College Football.
Congratulations, @will_anderson28 pic.twitter.com/EwwlrtzK28
Roll Tide Wire will continue to cover Anderson and the rest of the Crimson Tide as the team prepares to take on the Kansas State Wildcats in the Sugar Bowl on Dec. 31.
President Biden told Arizona leaders when he visited the state this week that he was "optimistic" about Brittney Griner's release happening soon.
Alabama defensive back Terrion Arnold (3) jumps to intercept a pass over Texas wide receiver Xavier Worthy (8) during the game at Royal Memorial Stadium on Sep. 10, 2022. Photo | Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-Statesman-USA TODAY NETWORK Alabama's Tyler Booker, Jaheim Oatis and Terrion Arnold were all named to the freshman All-SEC team the league office announced on Thursday.
Ohio State will not have graduate transfer Isaac Likekele for its Big Ten opener against Rutgers.
Bijan brings Texas its record-setting fifth Doak Walker Award.
Tennessee, once known as Wide Receiver U, has its first Biletnikoff Award winner in Jalin Hyatt. He won the honor on Thursday night, | 2022-12-09T01:51:33Z | sports.yahoo.com | Will Anderson Jr. wins Bednarik Award as top defensive CFB player in country | https://sports.yahoo.com/anderson-jr-wins-bednarik-award-011230792.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/anderson-jr-wins-bednarik-award-011230792.html?src=rss |
Later on in the night, Oluwatimi walked away with the Outland Trophy, as the nation's best offensive lineman. He becomes the first-ever Wolverine to win the prestigious honor in the award's 76-year history.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Michigan football's Olu Oluwatimi wins Rimington Award, Outland Trophy
Alabama's Will Anderson Jr. wins the Bednarik Award!
SmileDirectClub (SDC) has become technically an oversold stock now, which implies exhaustion of the heavy selling pressure on it. This, combined with strong agreement among Wall Street analysts in revising earnings estimates higher, indicates a potential trend reversal for the stock in the near term.
Honduras's president pledged to relax abortion laws, but an abortion-pill black market still thrives. | 2022-12-09T01:51:52Z | sports.yahoo.com | Michigan football's Olu Oluwatimi wins Rimington Award, Outland Trophy | https://sports.yahoo.com/michigan-footballs-olu-oluwatimi-wins-010823760.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/michigan-footballs-olu-oluwatimi-wins-010823760.html?src=rss |
SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) Brock Purdy was 5 days old when Tom Brady played his final college football game, not yet walking when Brady was drafted and a toddler when Brady won his first of seven Super Bowl titles.
''I think it's awesome in terms of Tom Brady coming and playing and playing his team, but at the same time, I'm playing the defense,'' Purdy said Thursday. ''I'm going to be going up against those guys rather than Tom himself, but definitely still awesome to have Tom Brady come and play on the same field and compete against our team. I think it's awesome, so really excited about it.''
''He's very aggressive in what he does,'' Shanahan said. ''Sometimes that can keep both teams in the game, so that's stuff that you have to work on as you play more, but that's where you want to start with it. When a guy can make some plays like he does, he gives you a chance to win, but we have to figure out what's the best way to win with him.''
Purdy's journey to starting quarterback has been a rapid once since he got the moniker ''Mr. Irrelevant'' for being the last pick in the draft in the spring.
''I've always believed that I don't care what slot, what round, what pick that I get picked or if I was undrafted, my whole thing was, man, I just want to go out and, and prove to myself that I can play at this level,'' Purdy said. ''That's always been my mentality. Even though I was the last pick, that's just where I happened to fall in the draft.''
''He's savvy for being a rookie,'' linebacker Fred Warner said. ''You see him doing the no-look passes and putting the ball where it's supposed to be. I feel like he's way advanced in terms of like where he is at for being a rookie. So that's really impressive to see every week.''
NOTES: DE Nick Bosa (hamstring) missed his second straight practice but defensive coordinator DeMeco Ryans said Bosa is ''working his way back in. He's doing good.'' ... DB Tarvarius Moore (knee) and DL Hassan Ridgeway (pectoral) also missed practice. ... McCaffrey (knee), Samuel (quadriceps), DL Arik Armstead (foot, ankle) and OL Spencer Burford (ankle) were all limited. | 2022-12-09T02:17:40Z | sports.yahoo.com | 49ers rookie Purdy to make starting debut vs. Brady's Bucs | https://sports.yahoo.com/49ers-rookie-purdy-starting-debut-012310556.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/49ers-rookie-purdy-starting-debut-012310556.html?src=rss |
Baker Mayfield was a Carolina Panther on Monday morning. On Thursday night, he was playing for the Los Angeles Rams.
The Rams did a pretty good job keeping their starting quarterback a secret, because nobody knew for sure up until kickoff if it would be Mayfield, John Wolford or Bryce Perkins getting the start. It was Wolford, who apparently was healthy enough to start despite a neck injury and some subterfuge by the Rams in the days leading up to their game against the Las Vegas Raiders.
Mayfield did play in the first quarter. The Rams went three-and-out on their first drive, and Mayfield came in for the Rams' second drive. They trailed 10-0 at that point. And on his first play, Mayfield hit Van Jefferson for a 21-yard gain. The drive stalled but Matt Gay hit a field goal to get the Rams on the board.
Mayfield getting the start against the Raiders was floated earlier in the week, after he was claimed off waivers by the Rams on Tuesday. It still seemed farfetched. Being able to join a team at quarterback and start in two days is a big ask. Then Mayfield took the pregame reps at quarterback and everyone wondered if it would happen.
The quarterback shell game highlighted the desperate situation the Rams are in. Mayfield asked for his release on Monday from the Carolina Panthers after a miserable stretch with that team, was cut and then claimed by the Rams on Tuesday. It's incredibly tough to start at quarterback in the NFL about 48 hours after a new team picks you up, but it seemed possible for the Rams. Matthew Stafford is on injured reserve. Wolford has been injured, Perkins started against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 12, but he didn't play well. It's not like they had any good options.
The Rams kept their starting quarterback a secret. All three were active. They went so far as to have all of them warm up an hour before the game.
John Wolford, Baker Mayfield and Bryce Perkins all warming up. pic.twitter.com/7tvPMeBVkH
Wolford took all of the first-team reps during the final warmups, which was a sign that he'd start.
Mayfield, the former first pick of the draft, struggled after the Panthers traded for him from the Cleveland Browns. Mayfield had a 74.4 passer rating with Carolina. Among quarterbacks with at least 100 attempts this season, only Zach Wilson of the New York Jets had a lower rating through 13 weeks.
The Rams got Mayfield to get a look at him before the season ends. They didn't take long to put him in.
Los Angeles Rams quarterback Baker Mayfield warms up before Thursday night's game against the Raiders. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill) | 2022-12-09T02:17:46Z | sports.yahoo.com | Baker Mayfield doesn't start for Rams, but he was in for the 2nd series | https://sports.yahoo.com/baker-mayfield-doesnt-start-for-rams-but-he-was-in-for-the-2nd-series-013210238.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/baker-mayfield-doesnt-start-for-rams-but-he-was-in-for-the-2nd-series-013210238.html?src=rss |
LOS ANGELES (AP) Draft Class of 2020 alums Tua Tagovailoa and Justin Herbert are preparing to face each other for the second time - and with more at stake for their respective teams.
''A lot of it was separated, so we weren't able to work out together and things like that,'' Herbert said. ''For the most part, it was just checking in when we were at the scouting combine and things like that.''
''There's areas of work that you thought maybe you had down that, `Hey, reality check. Here's what the deal is,''' said Tagovailoa, who has won 15 of his last 18 starts. ''So it was good for all of us offensively to see the mistakes, to talk about the mistakes.''
''We're just trying to move the ball as much as we can, convert on third down, limit turnovers, and push the ball downfield. Get the run game involved and just do the things that we know that we can do,'' Herbert said.
''This whole city is real nostalgic for me,'' Phillips said. ''It has a special place in my heart. Obviously it didn't work out with football, but there's no bad blood at all, man. I'm just grateful to be back here soaking in every moment.'' | 2022-12-09T02:18:11Z | sports.yahoo.com | Dolphins' Tagovailoa, Chargers' Herbert set for prime time | https://sports.yahoo.com/dolphins-tagovailoa-chargers-herbert-set-005004886.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/dolphins-tagovailoa-chargers-herbert-set-005004886.html?src=rss |
Meanwhile, the Texans are the worst team in the league. With a 1-10-1 record, Lovie Smith’s team has lost seven straight, including a blowout loss to the Cleveland Browns and former quarterback Deshaun Watson last week. It’s been a rough year for the Texans, who now travel to Dallas with Texas’ Governor’s Cup on the line.
This is the second in a three-game span against AFC South opponents for the Cowboys, and it shouldn’t get any easier than this one. The Cowboys are the much better team and are favored by 16.5 points, the largest point spread in the NFL this season. That doesn’t mean much when pride is on the line, but the Cowboys look to be in line to win their 10th game of the year.
Here are six things to know about the Week 14 opponent for the Cowboys, the Houston Texans.
They're due for a win
The Texans’ year began with a 20-20 tie with the Indianapolis Colts, and Houston hasn’t won a game since the Week 5 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars.
That’s a long time without a taste of winning, and the Texans haven’t been close to many during their streak. Only twice in the seven losses have they been within one score of winning the game. Their average margin of defeat is almost 13 points in that span.
It’s a bad team, but they are due to play better and get a second win eventually. The Cowboys have to make sure that isn’t in Week 14.
The offense lacks firepower
The Texans have one of the worst offenses in the league, averaging under 280 totals yards a game, so it’s no surprise they’re 31st in the league in scoring at just 15.7 points a game. Their offense hasn’t scored more than 17 points in the last six games and the Texans have scored over 20 points just one time this season.
Quarterback Davis Mills was benched two weeks ago for backup QB Kyle Allen, but Mills will be back under center against the Cowboys.
Mills will lead a passing offense that averages under 200 yards a game (191.4), while the rushing attack is just 29th in the league, gaining just under 88 yards per contest. The Texans’ leading receiver is Brandin Cooks, with just 520 yards, and rookie running back Dameon Pierce leads the ground game with 861 yards on the season.
Pierce is the lone bright spot on the offense, he’s eighth in the NFL in rushing and has six games with over 80 yards rushing. However Smith has adjusted the offensive attack away from the run and Pierce has just 89 rushing yards in the last three weeks.
If Dallas’ defense slows down Pierce, the Texans will have trouble moving the ball and scoring points.
They give up sacks
A new week, a new quarterback for the Dallas pass rushers to attack. The Texans have given up 33 sacks on the season, eighth worst in the league, and the Cowboys lead the NFL with 48 sacks.
It’s no surprise the Texans’ quarterbacks get sacked so often when they’re behind every week. They do have a decent offensive line led by tackle Laremy Tunsil, but defenses attack when they know the offense is forced to pass. This should play right into Dan Quinn’s hands, and his defense has no problems finishing games with the most dominant pass rushing team in the league.
Mills isn’t a very a very mobile QB either, so the Cowboys should have a decent chance at getting to a stagnant signal caller, who’s been sacked 28 times.
They throw interceptions, but don't put the ball on the ground
Mills back under center could be good news for a Cowboys secondary down two of their three starting cornerbacks. Texans QBs have thrown a league-high 15 interceptions and Mills is tied for second worst in the NFL with 11 picks.
Part of the reasons Mills was benched was because of his propensity for making poor decisions. He’ll make a few bad throws a game, the defense has to be ready to capitalize. Trevon Diggs is the only remaining Dallas starter, who will continue to count on rookie DaRon Bland, who had two interceptions last week, and second-year CB Kelvin Joseph. The defense needs both to play well down the stretch, and it starts with a matchup with the Texans.
As much as the Texans give it away through the air, they do protect the ball when running with it. The offense has lost just three fumbles on the year, which makes them one of the better ball handling teams in the league when on offense.
Houston’s special teams does have lost two fumbles, which accounts for nearly half of their five on the season, but their offense is more apt to give the ball when throwing it than while running with it.
Run defense is awful
The Texans have one of the worst defenses in the league, and that’s mainly due to their porous rushing defense. Houston allows the most rushing yards in the league per game at just over 169 yards (2,029 on the season). That’s almost 14 yards more than the next closest team.
They’ve also given up 15 rushing touchdowns.
However, the Texans are improving against the run.. In the last four weeks, the Texans’ defense has allowed just two rushing touchdowns and haven’t allowed a 100-yard rusher after allowing five of their first nine opponents to do so.
#Texans LB coach Smith said defense better Vs run bc they’re playing more disciplined in run defense. They will continue to play their normal run fits.
The Cowboys will surely test a defense that’s gotten better against the run, but has struggled for most of the season.
They've got some injury questions
It’s never a good combination to be one of the worst teams in the league, while also having to deal with injuries. The Texans could be without a few of their best players.
On defense, rookie cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. has missed the last three games with a hamstring injury and has yet to practice this week. The third overall pick in the 2022 is the only rookie CB who hasn’t allowed a touchdown this season. Stingley is listed as questionable but looks like he’s a longshot to play.
The Texans’ offense could also be without their top two wide receivers if starters Brandin Cooks and Nico Collins can’t go. Both WRs are on the injury report with calf and foot injuries, respectively. If they can’t play, the Cowboys’ secondary will be lining up against WR Chris Moore as the top threat in the Texans’ passing attack. Moore has 27 catches on the season.
Dallas shouldn’t have any problems beating the Texans, but if they are missing one, or a few of these players, the task just got a little easier. | 2022-12-09T02:18:18Z | sports.yahoo.com | Explosive runs for, against among 6 things Cowboys should know about Texans | https://sports.yahoo.com/explosive-runs-against-among-6-020225840.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/explosive-runs-against-among-6-020225840.html?src=rss |
He entered the 49ers' Week 13 game against the Miami Dolphins after Garoppolo's injury and threw two touchdown passes in a 33-17 victory. One of his touchdowns was a 3-yard toss to McCaffrey just before halftime.
It's no wonder. After all, Purdy and McCaffrey have been developing chemistry from the day they became teammates.
Right-handed reliever Chris Martin and the Boston Red Sox finalized a $17.5 million, two-year contract on Thursday. Martin gets a $4 million signing bonus, of which $1 million is payable this month, $1.5 million next June and $1.5 million in June 2024. The 36-year-old went 4-1 with two saves and a 3.05 ERA for the Chicago Cubs and Los Angeles Dodgers last season. | 2022-12-09T02:19:21Z | sports.yahoo.com | Why 49ers' Christian McCaffrey credits Brock Purdy for quick transition | https://sports.yahoo.com/why-49ers-christian-mccaffrey-credits-000305990.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/why-49ers-christian-mccaffrey-credits-000305990.html?src=rss |
Beckham had already met with Jones, McCarthy, head athletic trainer Jim Maurer and director of rehabilitation Britt Brown. He had already sat courtside at the Dallas Mavericks game alongside Cowboys All-Pro linebacker Micah Parsons and Cowboys All-Pro cornerback Trevon Diggs. Further Tuesday meetings awaited, including a visit scheduled with the players on the Cowboys’ leadership council, namely Prescott and running back Ezekiel Elliott.
Jones’ role with the Cowboys is multifaceted, but most often divided into two buckets. He is the team owner. He is also, unlike the majority of the NFL’s other 30 owners (or the ownership group members who hold shares in the Green Bay Packers), the team’s general manager. Over the years, Dallas media has come to draw a distinction that head coach Mike McCarthy has stated publicly multiple times this year.
Players pump brakes on Beckham hype
Stopped in the hallway by Yahoo Sports on Wednesday afternoon, Jerry Jones reiterated he had no update to report on negotiations.
“We’re still working on it,” Jones said, citing the sensitive nature of health discussions when declining to answer some questions.
Parsons, who visited with Beckham for several hours at the Mavericks game, said Beckham pegged his return-to-play timeline at five weeks. That would rule out Beckham for the entirety of the regular season. Returning to full-speed for the postseason would be difficult.
Cowboys LB Micah Parsons said Odell Beckham Jr. told him he’ll be ready to play in 5 weeks pic.twitter.com/Q2XRkXmcPo
The Dallas Morning News’ veteran writer David Moore reported that Beckham did not work out or do any “physical activity” during his two-day visit. It appears that is contributing to team hesitancy regarding his health.
The tenor of the locker room, as well, began to shift Wednesday in the aftermath of Beckham’s visit. Multiple players indicated in conversations with Yahoo Sports that they wanted to focus on the team’s upcoming games and present situation rather than speculate about a player who is not yet healthy enough to play. Veteran defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence declined even to confirm it was “fair” to see he wanted Beckham in house.
“It’s fair to say I’m trying to reach a Super Bowl,” Lawrence quipped. “So if he can come and help us with that, then yes, I’ll accept him. But if we’re just gonna do the circus, no I don’t.
At 4 p.m. ET, watch Tennessee football coach Josh Heupel and Clemson coach Dabo Swinney as they address media in Miami to preview the Orange Bowl.
Clemson-Tennessee in Orange Bowl will be preview of future CFP matchup, Dabo Swinney says
Until the final few weeks of the regular season, both the Clemson Tigers and Tennessee Volunteers truly believed they would be spending this time of year preparing for the College Football Playoff. | 2022-12-09T02:43:59Z | sports.yahoo.com | Jerry Jones, Cowboys suddenly cooling on Odell Beckham Jr. talks. Here's what it means | https://sports.yahoo.com/jerry-jones-cowboys-players-suddenly-cooling-on-odell-beckham-jr-talks-heres-what-it-means-200628180.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/jerry-jones-cowboys-players-suddenly-cooling-on-odell-beckham-jr-talks-heres-what-it-means-200628180.html?src=rss |
JK, Clarkson explain dust-up late in Warriors' loss to Jazz originally appeared on NBC Sports Bayarea
Jonathan Kuminga and Jordan Clarkson were involved in a spat in the fourth quarter of the Warriors’ 124-123 loss to the Utah Jazz on Wednesday night.
The Jazz trailed by two points with 28 seconds remaining when Clarkson, closely guarded by Kuminga, tried to drive to the basket. Kuminga stayed with him and swatted a mid-range shot.
When Kuminga grabbed the basketball, Clarkson wrapped him up. The two players exchanged shoves and had to be separated.
"I didn't have no intention to do anything," Kuminga said after the game. "It was just funny to the point where I saw him square up right away and I'm like, ‘You were the one who fouled me. You don't got to do all that.’
“It was just funny just seeing that. I didn't say nothing. I didn't do nothing."
Clarkson explained his side of the story in his postgame press conference.
“I tried to hold him up,” Clarkson said. “I tried to hold him. That was it.”
Clarkson was assessed a Flagrant 2 foul on the play. He was ejected from the game, and the Warriors were awarded two free-throw attempts and the basketball.
“They just said it was a Flagrant 2 foul because how I fouled him or something. I didn’t make any contact with his face. I didn’t do anything. At the end of the day, I literally was trying to hold him up. But hey, the refs call what they call. They see what they see.”
Unfortunately, Golden State didn’t make the most of the opportunity. Kuminga only made one of two free-throw attempts, and Klay Thompson turned the ball over on the Warriors’ next possession. Utah scored five of the game’s final seven points to steal the victory in shocking fashion.
RELATED: Klay admits to falling asleep on late Jazz trey in Warriors' loss
Although the Warriors didn’t pick up the win, Kuminga had his best game of the season, and arguably career. He played tough defense and logged 24 points on 10-of-13 shooting in 30 minutes of action.
Kuminga has plenty of room to grow, but frustrating a talented offensive player like Clarkson into a Flagrant 2 foul is a good sign for the youngster's defensive effort moving forward. | 2022-12-09T02:44:06Z | sports.yahoo.com | Jonathan Kuminga, Jordan Clarkson explain heated dust-up late in Warriors-Jazz | https://sports.yahoo.com/jonathan-kuminga-jordan-clarkson-explain-202045101.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/jonathan-kuminga-jordan-clarkson-explain-202045101.html?src=rss |
Brandon Nimmo was one of the New York Mets' most important players last season, and he's staying for the long-term.
The outfielder has agreed to an eight-year, $162 million contract to return the Mets, according to ESPN's Jeff Passan..
Since that 2018 season, only Mike Trout, Juan Soto, Freddie Freeman, Bryce Harper and Aaron Judge have better cumulative on-base percentages than Nimmo's .388 mark. He's a player who knows how to make contact and draw a walk, but he's also among MLB's best at drawing hit-by-pitches.
What's more, his defense in center field hasn't been too shabby. When you couple that glove at a premium position with one of MLB's best bats when it comes to getting on base, it's little wonder Nimmo fetched such a high price.
You remember how Nimmo needed a while before his first full-time season? Well, health has never been a certainty with him. He has played 100 games in a season only twice in his seven-year career, though that doesn't include the truncated 2020 season in which he played 55 of 60 games.
Nimmo's injury history is rather prolific. He has hit the injured list multiple times, with injuries to his neck and fingers, plus a partially collapsed lung in 2017. The good news is he was basically an every-day player all year in 2022, interrupted only by a stint on the COVID-19 list.
A healthy season is encouraging for Nimmo, but he will be 30 by Opening Day next year. It's not often you see a player shake the often-injured label in his 30s, but he will certainly be paid with that expectation — or hope.
There's also the fact that Nimmo might be great at getting on base, but his career .173 isolated power puts him squarely in the middle of the pack. We'll see how that profile ages.
Looking back at a wild Winter Meetings for the Mets, and looking ahead to what’s next
SNY Mets Reporter Steve Gelbs and SNY MLB Insider Andy Martino recap a busy Winter Meetings for the Mets, which featured several additions headlined by Justin Verlander, and then they look ahead to more Mets moves to come as the offseason continues. | 2022-12-09T02:44:12Z | sports.yahoo.com | MLB free agency: Brandon Nimmo returns to Mets on 8-year, $162 million deal | https://sports.yahoo.com/mlb-free-agency-brandon-nimmo-returns-to-mets-on-8-year-162-million-deal-015109076.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/mlb-free-agency-brandon-nimmo-returns-to-mets-on-8-year-162-million-deal-015109076.html?src=rss |
Jim Salisbury
Trea Turner, right at home in red pinstripes, is open to hitting anywhere in 'fun' lineup originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia
Trea Turner looked mighty comfortable in red pinstripes Thursday, and it wasn't because he'd worn them before. (His old college team, the Wolfpack of North Carolina State, wears them.) On the day the superstar shortstop was introduced at Citizens Bank Park, he looked at ease and at home because, well ...
"We just pictured ourselves here," he said, nodding toward his family. "I pictured myself in this uniform."
It's all real now. Four days after agreeing to an 11-year, $300 million contract, Turner pulled on his new jersey -- No. 7 -- and explained why he passed on a richer offer ($342 million) from the San Diego Padres to join the Phillies.
"I was lucky enough to have some good offers on the table," he said. "Money wasn't necessarily the number one option for us."
Kristen Turner, Trea's wife and college sweetheart, hails from Flemington, N.J., about an hour from Philadelphia. The couple has a young son, Beckham.
"My wife pictured living here and having family come and visit," Turner said. "We pictured playing with Bryce and Schwarber and a lot of those guys on the team now. Kevin Long.
"It seemed like a lot of those things added up and pointed us in this direction, and we were excited about it."
There was something else that lured Turner to Philadelphia. He watched the Phillies' postseason run, saw those electric crowds and those eight sellouts at Citizens Bank Park. He wanted to be part of it all. And, of course, he wants to help the Phillies get those two more wins and a World Series championship.
"This place is fun to play," he said. "We watched a lot of the playoff games. This place was rockin'. Just a lot of things pointed in this direction. We felt really comfortable and really happy. We're really excited."
Turner wasn't the only free-agent shortstop that the Phillies visited with.
"They told me right there that I was their number one target," Turner said. "They were going to look at other players, obviously, because they've got a job to do. But they told me that. From right then and there I expected them to come after us hard and try to do everything they could to get us in a Phillies uniform. And I took them seriously from the get-go. I just asked them to be honest with me and they were, and here we are."
Turner, 29, has a National League batting title on his resume. He's a two-time stolen base champ and a two-time All-Star, an extra-base hit machine. He's finished in the top 11 of NL MVP voting three times. He won a World Series with Washington in 2019.
Turner sports a lifetime on-base percentage of .355. He can hit in prime real estate -- first, second or third in a lineup.
So where will he hit in the Phillies' lineup?
Batting him leadoff in front of some of the team's thunder bats makes sense. Schwarber was the primary leadoff man in 2022. He's not a typical leadoff man -- he led the NL in homers (46) and strikeouts (200), had just a .317 on-base percentage out of the top spot and stole just 10 bases -- but the team did make it to Game 6 of the World Series with him batting leadoff. Schwarber fueled a June revival for the team (19 wins, 8 losses) with 12 homers and 27 RBIs while batting exclusively leadoff throughout the month. All of this deserves respect.
"I talked to Schwarb," Thomson said. "Schwarb is Schwarb. He prefers to lead off, but now you've got a guy like Trea Turner. That can change things. We have a lot of conversations to go through. But if you were to look in the dictionary at leadoff hitter or No. 2 hitter, (Turner's) face would be on it."
"We have a pretty good leadoff hitter," Turner said, referring to Schwarber. He then laughed. "He stole a lot of bases last year. I don't know if I want to kick him out of there.
"I don't know. I think it's going to be fun playing in this lineup, top to bottom. There's so many guys that can contribute. I don't really have a preference. Truthfully, I don't really care.
"But I'm going to give Schwarbs a hard time."
Turner saw it in Washington when the two were teammates. He saw the chemistry as an opponent with the Dodgers this season and again on TV during Red October. He's eager to be part of it.
"I think you can see it," he said. "It's hard to fake that. You can see guys in the dugout and on TV, obviously, you talk to these guys -- Kevin Long, Schwarber, Bryce, they all said how good the clubhouse is and how good the guys are. It's very noticeable. And it's special when that happens. It's hard to do because every year it's a new team, new players. But last year, the guys definitely had it."
Bryce Harper lobbed Philadelphia's first recruiting pitch over the summer when the injured All-Star used a guest stint in the broadcast booth to advocate for the future free agent and his former Washington teammate. Harper and Turner have been reunited by the National League champion Phillies for the upcoming season and well beyond. Turner's $300 million, 11-year contract with the Phillies was finalized Thursday, a deal that'll take the 29-year-old shortstop and 2021 NL batting champion into his 40s. | 2022-12-09T02:44:25Z | sports.yahoo.com | Trea Turner, right at home with Phillies, open to hitting anywhere in lineup | https://sports.yahoo.com/trea-turner-home-phillies-open-000300225.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/trea-turner-home-phillies-open-000300225.html?src=rss |
Tennessee wide receiver Jalin Hyatt was named the winner for the 2022 Biletnikoff Award Thursday.
Hyatt is Tennessee’s first Biletnikoff Award winner.
UT press release:
WATCH - Dan Miller sits down with Lions defensive lineman John Cominsky
John Cominsky speaks with Dan Miller about coming into his own after arriving in Detroit. He also discusses some huge plays he made in the game against Jacksonville last Sunday, along with being fired up this week for the Vikings.
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) Louisville hired Jeff Brohm as its football coach, concluding a whirlwind process that ended with the school welcoming home a native son who had a hand in the Cardinals' success as a player and assistant coach. The University of Louisville Athletic Association's executive board approved a six-year contract on Thursday that will pay the former Purdue coach a base salary of $5 million next season with annual increases of $100,000, plus incentives. Brohm, who was a Louisville quarterback and minor league baseball player, was introduced Thursday to a standing ovation in a packed news conference at Cardinal Stadium. | 2022-12-09T03:23:00Z | sports.yahoo.com | Jalin Hyatt wins 2022 Biletnikoff Award | https://sports.yahoo.com/jalin-hyatt-wins-2022-biletnikoff-014314883.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/jalin-hyatt-wins-2022-biletnikoff-014314883.html?src=rss |
Ryans: Bosa's game-changing play makes him clear DPOY leader originally appeared on NBC Sports Bayarea
SANTA CLARA — Nick Bosa should be named Defensive Player of the Year as far as 49ers defensive coordinator DeMeco Ryans is concerned.
The star pass rusher already was named NFC Defensive Player of the Month for November for his three quarterback sack total and 19 total pressures (five hits, 11 hurries).
In the club’s Week 13 win over the Miami Dolphins, Bosa matched his November sack total in a single game, totaling seven total pressures including three sacks, two hits, and two hurries. Bosa was subsequently named NFC Defensive Player of the Week.
“I think he definitely is playing his best football,” Ryans told reporters on Thursday. “You talk about someone who can change the game and affect it in a way, Bosa does it, and to me, he’s hands down the best in the league. You talk about Defensive Player of the Year type candidate — if it isn’t Bosa I don’t know who else it should be.”
There is no doubt that the 49ers' defense plays better when Bosa is on the field. Not only are his stats remarkable, but his ability to draw attention away from other members of the defense allows others to take advantage.
“He’s put our defense in the position we are in and we’re not where we are if it’s not with Bosa,” Ryans added. "How he changes the game, how he affects the quarterback how he speeds up the quarterback’s timing and he’s still able to get as many sacks as he has.
“He’s able to get to the quarterback, put him down and force the ball for the scoop and score. There’s so many game-changing plays that Bosa has made."
Bosa also has had great timing with his game-changing plays. Near the end of the 49ers' Week 11 win over the New Orleans Saints, quarterback Andy Dalton and his offense were attempting to convert a 4th-and-four situation. Bosa broke into the backfield and got to Dalton for a sack, a loss of seven yards and a turnover on downs.
Near the end of the 49ers' win over the Dolphins, Bosa’s strip-sack fumble was returned by linebacker Dre Greenlaw for a scoop-and-score that slammed the door on Miami’s comeback attempt.
“You can’t speak enough about Bosa and how he affects the defense and how he changes the game,” Ryans said. “If you want to play great defense you have to have a great edge rusher and that’s what we have in Bosa. He’s the best doing it in the league and I’m so excited to have him on our side.” | 2022-12-09T03:49:04Z | sports.yahoo.com | 49ers' Nick Bosa is Defensive Player of Year candidate in DeMeco Ryans' eyes | https://sports.yahoo.com/49ers-nick-bosa-defensive-player-235320218.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/49ers-nick-bosa-defensive-player-235320218.html?src=rss |
Things are a little different for 49ers rookie quarterback Brock Purdy as the club prepares to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Purdy, who began the year as the QB3, became the backup after Trey Lance’s injury in Week 2, and now finds himself thrust into the starting role for a team in the thick of a division race after Jimmy Garoppolo’s Week 13 injury.
While quarterbacks always try and prepare the same every week, Purdy did point out some differences in his weekly routine now that he’s QB1.
“It’s been solid,” Purdy said of his week during a press conference Thursday. “It’s been new, taking all the first-team reps and just the meetings and everything’s centered around how I think, the plays I like. And then getting the timing down with the receivers and running backs, so it’s been a little different, but it’s been really good.”
Working with the starters wasn’t a regular thing for Purdy while he was the backup signal caller. His first real work with that group came when he entered the game for Garoppolo early in Week 13. Now he’s getting a chance to get on the same page with that starting group, and they’ve made sure the rookie feels like the starter.
“There’s been a lot of good things that people have said, both coaches and players,” Purdy said. “I think the biggest thing is seeing like the older guys, the veterans of the team, just come up to me and tell me like, Hey, like we got you. And even the guys on defense, they’re like, do your thing on offense, we’re going to hold it down and do our part. And then the older guys on offense, like [RB] Christian [McCaffrey] and [TE] George [Kittle] and [WR] Deebo [Samuel], [WR Brandon Aiyuk] B.A., [T] Trent [Williams], all those guys, they’re like, man, we got you. We’re not just going to throw you out there and leave you out there by yourself. They all got my back and I think that’s just been the coolest part about it, so knowing that I’m not alone in this whole thing.”
Purdy’s first foray into being an NFL QB was a success when he helped guide the 49ers to a 33-17 win over the red-hot Miami Dolphins at Levi’s Stadium. Things won’t get any easier Sunday when the 49ers welcome in a top-10 Buccaneers defense and quarterback Tom Brady.
Whether Purdy succeeds won’t ultimately be known until they play the game, but the 49ers’ rookie and his teammates are ensuring he’s as ready as possible.
Just as it's a good idea to save for retirement in a tax-advantaged manner, it's also wise to reap some tax benefits in the course of saving for future medical expenses. Healthcare is one of those costs that's always present -- and always has the potential to be expensive. | 2022-12-09T03:49:23Z | sports.yahoo.com | Brock Purdy adjusting to life as QB1 | https://sports.yahoo.com/brock-purdy-adjusting-life-qb1-024235992.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/brock-purdy-adjusting-life-qb1-024235992.html?src=rss |
“James just wants to play,” receiver Michael Gallup said. “He came here just trying to do that because he was sitting up there in Pittsburgh. He didn’t really get all the opportunities he needed. Now, he can get some down here. He just wants to play. I know he’s got that energy up in him. It will be good to see. Hopefully, he’s up this week.”
James Washington could return this week: It’s kind of like a kid waiting on Christmas originally appeared on Pro Football Talk
This year's event honors Ryan Turell, an Orthodox Jew and Motor City Cruise player. | 2022-12-09T03:49:35Z | sports.yahoo.com | James Washington could return this week: It’s kind of like a kid waiting on Christmas | https://sports.yahoo.com/james-washington-could-return-week-031928830.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/james-washington-could-return-week-031928830.html?src=rss |
Like many Giants acquisitions, Sabol brings versatility. He has caught and played all three outfield spots in the minors and the Giants announced him as a catcher/outfielder. In that respect, he's similar to Ford Proctor, an earlier Giants acquisition who is working on getting better behind the plate.
"We just see him as a guy who could be a backup catcher, who could be a third catcher because of his ability to do other things. We really like the offensive profile," Farhan Zaidi said. "As a catcher, his framing is actually pretty solid, a little bit above average. We have (bullpen coach) Craig Albernaz look at any potential catching acquisitions and he thinks there's a pretty solid defensive level now and there's room for improvement.
"He's a good athlete and he's had two good offensive seasons moving through the upper levels. Whether it's a No. 2 or a No. 3 catcher who is doing other things, he'll be an interesting guy to try to fit."
The same rules apply, and Avila will have to stick on Chicago's roster, or else he must be sent back to the Giants.
"It's a testament to Kyle Haines and the (player development) staff, that they do a good job," Zaidi said."
"(Assistant GM) Jeremy Shelley and the other guys in our office are always making sure we have good depth throughout the minor leagues. I think it's going to be a regular occurrence for us that we lose six or seven guys in the minor league phase. That's just how it goes." | 2022-12-09T04:15:17Z | sports.yahoo.com | Giants trade for Blake Sabol, lose eight Double-A players in Rule 5 Draft | https://sports.yahoo.com/giants-trade-blake-sabol-lose-023049958.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/giants-trade-blake-sabol-lose-023049958.html?src=rss |
“A Very Backstreet Holiday,” the Backstreet Boys’ Christmas special filmed this month in Los Angeles, will no longer air on ABC, Variety has confirmed. The news comes amid allegations that singer Nick Carter raped a 17-year-old girl during the band’s 2001 tour. The special was set to air on ABC on Dec. 14, featuring Carter, […]
Bruce Allen testifies that league office blamed Commanders for leaking Jon Gruden emails
Bruce Allen vs. Dan Snyder continues.
As leadership on the House Committee on Oversight and Reform nears a change, the committee on Thursday released a 79-page report accusing Washington Commanders owner Daniel Snyder of delivering “evasive” and “misleading” testimony about a toxic workplace, as well as trying to intimidate witnesses. Part of the alleged witness intimidation included the sharing of “emails […] | 2022-12-09T04:15:23Z | sports.yahoo.com | If Dan Snyder was involved in leaking Jon Gruden emails, it could lead to his downfall as Commanders owner | https://sports.yahoo.com/if-dan-snyder-was-involved-in-leaking-jon-gruden-emails-it-could-lead-to-his-downfall-as-commanders-owner-035029808.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/if-dan-snyder-was-involved-in-leaking-jon-gruden-emails-it-could-lead-to-his-downfall-as-commanders-owner-035029808.html?src=rss |
How Stranger Things ’ Sadie Sink Lied to the Show’s Creators to Land the Role of Max
On the Dec. 6 episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live, Stranger Things star Sadie Sink revealed the lie she told the show's creators that helped her get the role of Max.
Many of us are happy with just one or two dogs at home. For some of us, three or four is an ideal number. But what about 13? One dog dad, Collin Standon, has 13 Golden Retrievers, reports PEOPLE – and he wouldn’t have it any other way. The 24-year-old started off with three Goldens, before […] The post Texas Man Goes Viral With 13 Golden Retrievers appeared first on DogTime. | 2022-12-09T04:15:36Z | sports.yahoo.com | ‘I think it’s the end’: Federer reflects on calling Nadal to play last match of career | https://sports.yahoo.com/think-end-federer-reflects-calling-230000082.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/think-end-federer-reflects-calling-230000082.html?src=rss |
The Los Angeles Rams pulled out a gutsy and miraculous 17-16 win over the Las Vegas Raiders on Thursday night to finally put an end to their losing streak. The Rams entered Thursday night with a six-game losing streak, while the Raiders were amid a three-game winning streak.
With the win over Las Vegas, Los Angeles now improves to 4-9 on the season through the first 14 weeks. Following a crazy finish that you’d only see in a movie, here are six takeaways from the Rams’ victory over the Raiders on Thursday night.
Rams didn't waste any time to put Baker Mayfield in and he delivered
Everyone was curious to see who would start at quarterback for the Rams on Thursday night and John Wolford would get the nod on the first drive. After Wolford handed the ball off three times on the first offensive drive, the Rams would insert Baker Mayfield into the offense and he would remain in the game the rest of the way.
Mayfield would complete 22 of his 35 attempts for 230 yards and a touchdown. The former No. 1 overall pick only had a couple of days to learn the playbook and he impressively led the Rams on a 98-yard game-winning drive, which concluded with a 23-yard touchdown pass to Van Jefferson. It’s safe to say Mayfield will be starting in Week 15 against the Green Bay Packers.
Cam Akers still remains the featured back despite fumbling
Cam Akers has had a rough start to his career and the young running back fumbled the ball again in the first half of Thursday’s contest in a drive where the Rams were in a position to put up points on the Raiders. Sean McVay looked dejected seeing Akers fumble the ball again and the expectation was for Akers to be benched for the rest of the game.
But despite his fumble in the first half, Akers would still lead the way with 42 rushing yards and a touchdown on 12 attempts compared to Kyren Williams getting 19 yards on three attempts. While Williams looks like he could be the more explosive option, Akers has now been the featured back two weeks in a row and he’ll look to carry that over into Week 15 versus the Packers.
Tutu Atwell continues to prove that he needs a larger role in the offense
The silver lining in Cooper Kupp and Allen Robinson being sidelined for the Rams is that the team now gets a better look at the depth at wide receiver. Tutu Atwell has made the most of his increased opportunities as he had another productive outing against the Raiders.
The second-year wideout would haul in five of his nine targets for 50 yards, including a 22-yard reception. Even with all of the controversy surrounding Atwell’s selection in last year’s draft, it’s been great seeing him step up in recent weeks.
Raiders attacked the Rams' edge rushers
Terrell Lewis was out for the Rams on Thursday night, so Michael Hoecht got another chance to showcase his ability as an edge rusher in Week 14. After a two-sack performance in Week 13, the Raiders realized they could take advantage of Hoecht’s inexperience and size by attacking him on outside runs and jet sweeps.
Keir Thomas and Daniel Hardy also got some snaps in this game and the Raiders continued to lean on attacking the edge rushers of the Rams. While Los Angeles came away with the win, Hoecht and the other edge rushers will need to work on their ability to move laterally and be disciplined by setting the edge on run plays.
Greg Gaines had a stellar performance
In a game where the Rams knew the Raiders were going to try to pound the ball with Josh Jacobs, Greg Gaines had a stellar outing. Gaines finished Thursday night’s game with six combined tackles, a quarterback hit, and he was consistently wrecking plays in the interior.
With Aaron Donald and A’Shawn Robinson inactive, Gaines and Leonard Floyd are the only remaining starters on the defensive front for the Rams. Even though he didn’t record a sack, Gaines had one of his best performances of the season in the win over the Raiders.
Bobby Wagner remains a bright spot on the defense
It seems as if Bobby Wagner makes the takeaways article every week now, but his play on the field needs to be acknowledged. The All-Pro linebacker might be on the wrong side of 30 years old, however, he continues to play at an elite level despite the Rams not being in playoff contention.
Wagner led the Rams with 14 combined tackles on Thursday night and he made a couple of plays that didn’t show up in the box score, including a couple of plays where he was the quarterback spy on Derek Carr. The veteran linebacker now has 11 straight seasons of recording 100-plus tackles and he moved into 10th all-time in tackles on Thursday while he continues to show he has plenty left in the tank. | 2022-12-09T05:20:27Z | sports.yahoo.com | 6 takeaways from Rams’ 17-16 win over Raiders | https://sports.yahoo.com/6-takeaways-rams-17-16-045735939.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/6-takeaways-rams-17-16-045735939.html?src=rss |
Baker Mayfield pulled a Tom Brady.
The Los Angeles Rams pulled off a stunning 17-16 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders on Thursday Night Football as Mayfield, who has been a Ram for all of two days, led a 98-yard touchdown drive in the final minute.
The victory mirrored what The GOAT did for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers against the New Orleans Saints on Monday Night Football.
Trailing by the same score, with about five minutes left, score a pair of touchdowns to snatch victory from certain defeat.
The game-winning TD pass went from Mayfield to Van Jefferson and covered 23 yards with 10 seconds left.
Matt Gay kicked the extra point and the Rams’ six-game winning streak was over, as was the Raiders’ three-game winning streak.
The 8-play, 98-yard drive took 1:35. It was helped along by a foolish penalty on Las Vegas’ Jerry Tillery, who knocked the football from Mayfield’s hands after a play was over and cost his team 15 yards.
Cam Akers had scored on a short run with a little more than three minutes left to cut the 16-3 deficit to 16-10, setting up Mayfield’s heroics.
Mayfield was cut by the Carolina Panthers earlier in the week and picked up off waivers by the Rams. He learned the playbook — quite well — on his flight to Los Angeles.
John Wolford started but Mayfield came on and went 22-of-35 for 230 yards and the game-winning touchdown.
Matthew Stafford showing love to Baker Mayfield 👏#LVvsLAR on Prime Video | 2022-12-09T05:20:34Z | sports.yahoo.com | Baker Mayfield directs 98-yard TD drive as Rams shock Raiders | https://sports.yahoo.com/baker-mayfield-directs-98-yard-042756094.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/baker-mayfield-directs-98-yard-042756094.html?src=rss |
Baker Mayfield has had a rough season. He was told by the Carolina Panthers on Monday that he'd be their third-string quarterback this week, and Mayfield asked to be released. The Panthers didn't have a problem letting him go. It's not like he'd played well at any point this season.
Mayfield had done little before the final minutes of the fourth quarter. He was playing on an offense without top receivers Cooper Kupp and Allen Robinson. He had almost no time to learn the playbook or practice with his new team. No matter what happens with Mayfield's Rams career after that, he'll have that moment. And maybe the Rams really did find something in claiming Mayfield.
"Didn't think it was going to play out like this," Mayfield said on the Amazon Prime Video set after the game. "But I'm glad we went through the two-minute operation, my goodness."
The Rams had some pregame shenanigans in relation to their starting quarterback. They didn't say if it would be John Wolford, Mayfield or even Bryce Perkins. All of them were active. All three warmed up before the game. Wolford eventually took the snaps with the first team before the game and got the start. But after the Rams went three-and-out on their first possession, Mayfield came in.
Eventually he looked like a quarterback who was probably still learning his teammates' names, and definitely learning the playbook. The offense looked disjointed. Mayfield was indecisive and took sacks. To start the second half he was 1-of-6 for 5 yards through two Rams possessions.
The Rams were bad on offense, but the Raiders couldn't put them away. And Mayfield got hot again.
The Raiders had a chance to put the game away, but ran it three straight times with Josh Jacobs and punted after Jacobs was stuffed on third-and-1. A great punt put the Rams at their own 2-yard line with no timeouts and 1:45 left. It would take a miracle for Mayfield, but he provided one. An interception was wiped off the board due to a defensive pass interference penalty. An unsportsmanlike conduct penalty, for defensive tackle Jerry Tillery knocking the ball out of Mayfield's hands after a sack, cost the Raiders 15 more yards. Ferrell's penalty was inexcusable and Tillery's was way worse. A circus catch by Ben Skowronek got the Rams closer, and Mayfield's lofted pass to Jefferson put the Raiders away. Mayfield told Amazon Prime Video's crew he was shocked that the Raiders played press coverage in the final seconds, allowing Jefferson to get behind the defense for the winning touchdown. | 2022-12-09T05:20:40Z | sports.yahoo.com | Baker Mayfield leads an unbelievable comeback to push the Rams past the Raiders | https://sports.yahoo.com/baker-mayfield-leads-an-unbelievable-comeback-to-push-the-rams-past-the-raiders-041857793.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/baker-mayfield-leads-an-unbelievable-comeback-to-push-the-rams-past-the-raiders-041857793.html?src=rss |
Baker Mayfield finally had himself a heroic performance in what’s been a nightmarish 2022 season. But, it came in his very first game following his departure from the Carolina Panthers.
Literally two days after being claimed off waivers by the Los Angeles Rams, Mayfield led the reigning (and struggling) Super Bowl champions to an improbable come-from-behind victory over the Las Vegas Raiders on Thursday night.
Mayfield and the Rams, who had almost no offense to speak of throughout the night, began their climb back from a 16-3 hole at the 12:20 mark of the fourth quarter. They’d go on a 17-play, 75-yard touchdown drive—which lasted over nine minutes—in cutting the deficit to 16-10.
After forcing the Raiders to a three-and-out on the next possession, Los Angeles started on their own 2-yard line with just 1:45 left. Mayfield then charged the Rams 98 yards downfield—a miraculous touch that ended in a beautiful, game-winning 23-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Van Jefferson.
Mayfield finished the game having completed 22 of his 35 passes for 230 yards, the score and no interceptions. His 91.4 passer rating was the highest of the campaign.
And even though Mayfield never did that for them, there are probably a lot of Panthers who are quite happy for their ex-teammate right about now.
DeMeco Ryans believes Nick Bosa is the clear and obvious choice for the Defensive Player of the Year award and is playing the best football of his career. | 2022-12-09T05:20:46Z | sports.yahoo.com | Baker Mayfield leads improbable comeback win in 1st game with Rams | https://sports.yahoo.com/baker-mayfield-leads-game-winning-044109848.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/baker-mayfield-leads-game-winning-044109848.html?src=rss |
The Arizona Cardinals face the New England Patriots on Monday night at home. The Patriots have struggled offensively this season.
The rank 24th in total offense, averaging 318.9 yards per game and 20th in scoring at 20.4 points per game.
It has not been a good offensive year. Matt Patricia, a former defensive coordinator, is the offensive playcaller.
Cardinals defensive coordinator Vance Joseph made an interesting observation of the Patriots’ offense on Thursday when he spoke to reporters.
“I see an offense that’s running the football well, Joseph said. “It’s a very conservative pass game. Lots of screens.
“It’s like a defensive guy is calling the offense. It’s how a defensive guy would call offensive plays. Let’s not turn the ball over. Let’s get four yards a play and try to burn clock, and that’s what they’re doing.”
Joseph is sure the Patriots will continue to do the same thing.
“He’s going to be patient, might take a shot here (from) time to time, but for the most part, it’s run game, it quick game and it’s screens.
“It’s how a defensive guy would call plays.” | 2022-12-09T05:21:18Z | sports.yahoo.com | Cardinals DC makes interesting comment about Patriots’ offense | https://sports.yahoo.com/cardinals-dc-makes-interesting-patriots-041025191.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/cardinals-dc-makes-interesting-patriots-041025191.html?src=rss |
The Los Angeles Rams signed quarterback Baker Mayfield just this week, and it wasn’t expected that Mayfield — with limited experience in one of the NFL’s most complicated offenses — would see serious time. But with Matthew Stafford out with a spinal cord contusion, and backup John Wolford out due to his own injuries, Mayfield took the field with about 48 hours of experience with his new team.
It started out somewhat rocky, as Mayfield tried to find timing with receivers he’d never thrown to before, but when it counted… boy, did Mayfield come through. With two minutes left in the Rams’ Thursday night game against the Las Vegas Raiders, punter AJ Cole III booted the Rams back to their own two-yard line with a 64-yard punt.
Mayfield, as much as he’s been through in his recent NFL career, was undaunted. His team was down, 16-10, they had no timeouts, and it just didn’t matter. He threw an interception that was negated by a pass interference penalty, and Raiders defensive lineman Jerry Tillery was penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct after a sack, but Mayfield did quite well without the help.
Mayfield had to run a no-huddle silent count, as SoFi Stadium was filled with noise Raiders fans, and with 15 seconds left in the game, Mayfield hit receiver Van Jefferson for the 23-yard game-winning score.
“I mean… it’s Baker Mayfield,” Jefferson said right after the game. “That’s all you can say. He’s been here before, and for him to get here and do what he just did, it just shows how determined he is, and what kind of guy he is. I’m glad he’s here.”
Everyone in the Rams organization would echo that sentiment.
“He just came in and worked hard,” Jefferson said, when Amazon’s Kaylee Hartung asked him how Mayfield could command an offense with so little preparation time. “He’s only been here for a day. For him to come in here and do what he just did shows how determined he is, and what kind of player he is. He’s tough.”
Twitter's now-fired Deputy General Counsel James Baker has a long history of facing allegations of anti-Trump, pro-Democratic bias in the public and private sectors. | 2022-12-09T05:21:24Z | sports.yahoo.com | New guy Baker Mayfield leads Rams on 98-yard game-winning drive | https://sports.yahoo.com/guy-baker-mayfield-leads-rams-043029738.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/guy-baker-mayfield-leads-rams-043029738.html?src=rss |
INGLEWOOD, Calif. (AP) Baker Mayfield threw a 23-yard touchdown pass to Van Jefferson with 10 seconds to play to cap a 98-yard drive, and the Los Angeles Rams' brand-new quarterback led two TD drives late in the fourth quarter of a shocking 17-16 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders on Thursday night.
How I Met Your Father, the follow-up to How I Met Your Mother starring Hilary Duff, is coming back for season 2. This is how to watch How I Met Your Father in the UK. | 2022-12-09T05:21:37Z | sports.yahoo.com | Mayfield rallies Rams past Raiders in final minute, 17-16 | https://sports.yahoo.com/mayfield-rallies-rams-past-raiders-043805286.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/mayfield-rallies-rams-past-raiders-043805286.html?src=rss |
The Raiders have had some bad losses this season, including losses to the Cardinals and the Colts. But this one takes the cake. The Raiders controlled the game throughout, having a 16-3 lead late in the fourth quarter against a quarterback who joined the Rams on Tuesday.
But after multiple three-and-outs in the second half, the Rams actually had a chance to win the game at the end. An A.J. Cole punt (64-yard punt) pinned the Rams inside their own three-yard line.
The Rams were able to get out of their own end zone after multiple penalties by the Raiders. They would score the go-ahead touchdown with just nine seconds left on the clock on a throw from Baker Mayfield to Van Jefferson.
The story of the game was penalties by the Raiders that led to first downs for the Rams. Clelin Ferrell jumped offsides on a punt that would give the Rams a first down. Jerry Tillery also had a 15-yard penalty that helped the Rams win at the end of regulation.
It was another big game for Josh Jacobs, who saw 18 first-half carries. He did leave the game briefly with a hand injury, but returned to the field for the second half. Look for the Raiders to provide some information later in the week.
The Raiders will take on the New England Patriots in Week 15 in another must-win game. Then, they will face the Steelers in Pittsburgh on Christmas Eve. But with this team sitting at 5-8, the season is just about over for the Raiders. | 2022-12-09T05:21:48Z | sports.yahoo.com | Raiders collapse against Rams, lose 17-16 | https://sports.yahoo.com/raiders-collapse-against-rams-lose-041948331.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/raiders-collapse-against-rams-lose-041948331.html?src=rss |
On a night when no one knew who the Rams’ starting quarterback would be, Sean McVay’s team actually kept things competitive against the Raiders. They can thank Baker Mayfield, who joined the team two days ago, for playing an incredibly impressive game, all things considered.
But the Rams did more than just keep things competitive. They managed to beat the Raiders in epic fashion. Needing to go 98 yards with 1:45 on the clock to win the game, Mayfield turned in an all-time drive.
He led the Rams down the field – with the help of a couple of Raiders penalties – for a game-winning touchdown, hitting Van Jefferson from 23 yards out to earn the victory.
Here’s a recap of the madness that ensued at SoFi Stadium on Thursday night.
Wolford got the start at quarterback, but he didn’t last very long under center. Sean McVay pulled him after he handed the ball off three times on the opening drive, replacing him with Mayfield.
Mayfield came in and immediately had a positive impact, completing his first pass for 21 yards to Van Jefferson. He then completed 22-yard passes to Tutu Atwell and Ben Skowronek, the latter of which was particularly impressive on third-and-13.
Cam Akers played just about every snap in the first half until he coughed up a fumble in Raiders territory. He has a history of costly fumbles and this one probably took three points off the board for the Rams.
Bobby Wagner may be in his 11th season and in the mids of a terrible 3-10 campaign, but he hasn’t let up one bit. He’s playing just as hard as he was in Week 1, going all out on every play. He finished with 14 tackles, which moved him into 10th all-time in career tackles.
Penalties absolutely killed the Rams in this game. They were flagged seven times, with two particularly costly infractions coming on consecutive plays in the third quarter. The first was a questionable holding call on Rob Havenstein when Atwell gained 14 yards, pulling the Rams back to the 36-yard line instead of being at the Raiders’ 16. On the next play, Coleman Shelton was called for unsportsmanlike conduct, taking the Rams out of manageable field goal range. Instead, they settled for a 61-yarder, which Matt Gay missed.
Mayfield finished the game 22-for-35 with 230 yards and one touchdown, not turning it over a single time. It wasn’t his best game ever statistically, but it was one of the best comebacks he’s had in the NFL.
… Taylor Rapp picked off Derek Carr on the Raiders’ final drive to seal the win.
No. 3 star: Greg Gaines
No. 2 star: Bobby Wagner
No. 1 star: Baker Mayfield
What else but Mayfield’s game-winning touchdown pass to Jefferson. Watch it in all of its glory again.
The Rams get a mini-bye before their next game, even longer than the traditional mini-bye after a Thursday night game. That’s because they don’t play until next Monday night against the Packers, a road game at Lambeau Field. So they’ll have plenty of time to get Baker Mayfield even more prepared for his next appearance, which will be his first start.
If he plays like this on two days’ notice, he should be even better in a week and a half. | 2022-12-09T05:22:00Z | sports.yahoo.com | Rams come back to stun Raiders, 17-16: Instant analysis of incredible Week 14 win | https://sports.yahoo.com/rams-come-back-stun-raiders-043603365.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/rams-come-back-stun-raiders-043603365.html?src=rss |
The Baltimore Ravens head into Week 14 for a matchup against their division rival in the Pittsburgh Steelers. This is the first game of the season between the two, and the starting quarterback combination won’t be the same as they’ve been in the past. Ben Roethlisberger retired from the NFL following the 2021 season, and Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson is trending in the wrong direction after not practicing for two days with a knee injury. Kenny Pickett and Tyler Huntley looks like the matchup that could be on display on Sunday.
The Ravens announced the uniform combinations for Week 14, going with white tops and purple pants. So far this season the Ravens are 1-1 with this combination, in a win against Tampa Bay and a last minute loss in Jacksonville. Overall, the team is 12-5 when wearing this uniform set, according to Ravens Uniform Tracker.
The Ravens look to get to 9-4 on the 2022 season, with their Week 14 matchup with the Steelers looming large. Huntley has the game experience to step in and perform, but it won’t be easy, especially with the talent that Pittsburgh has on the defensive side of the ball. | 2022-12-09T05:22:07Z | sports.yahoo.com | Ravens announce uniform combination for Week 14 matchup vs. Steelers | https://sports.yahoo.com/ravens-announce-uniform-combination-week-045349408.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/ravens-announce-uniform-combination-week-045349408.html?src=rss |
The utter improbability of what Baker Mayfield did for the Los Angeles Rams, and to the Las Vegas Raiders on Thursday night really can’t be overstated. The Rams signed Mayfield on Tuesday to shore up their banged-up quarterback room, and as losers of six straight games, you didn’t really expect them to drive 98 yards downfield, with no time outs, in a hostile environment (L.A.’s SoFi Stadium was packed with Raiders fans), and with a quarterback who had one practice with his new team to travel that length to win the game.
But of course, that’s exactly what happened. Raiders punter AJ Cole III put the Rams at their own two-yard line with two minutes left in the game, up 16-10, and that was that, for all intents and purposes.
Except that it wasn’t. Mayfield was helped along the way by a couple of Raiders penalties — a pass interference call that negated an interception, and an unsportsmanlike conduct call that put the Rams in good stead after a sack — but it was what the Raiders did on the final play of that drive that gave Mayfield and the Rams one of the greatest comebacks in NFL history.
With 15 seconds left, and the ball at the Las Vegas 23-yard line, the Raiders — for whatever reason — lined up in press coverage with a single-high safety. Receiver Van Jefferson was running the fade route to the left side of the field, and the coverage gave Jefferson a one-on-one with cornerback Sam Webb.
This was the result.
Baker Mayfield:
Game-winning TD. pic.twitter.com/pzZvYvrd7I
The throw was on the money, the catch was great, and even when the Raiders dropped a second safety deep, it was to the middle of the field, which made no difference.
“To be honest with you, I was completely shocked that they lined up in press coverage with 15 seconds left on the clock,” Mayfield told the Amazon.com postgame crew. “I really thought they were going to try to pop out and play zone, but I saw the weak-side safety stay down, and Van is a great go-ball runner to go up and get it. He won off the line, and did a good job.”
Our guess is, Mayfield wasn’t the only one shocked by that coverage. But it was enough to give him a moment in his career that he will never forget. | 2022-12-09T06:52:03Z | sports.yahoo.com | Anatomy of a Play: How the Raiders gave Baker Mayfield an all-time improbable touchdown | https://sports.yahoo.com/anatomy-play-raiders-gave-baker-051458023.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/anatomy-play-raiders-gave-baker-051458023.html?src=rss |
That was a tall task, especially with a quarterback, Baker Mayfield, who had gone through one day of practice with his new team. The Raiders helped him out with their coverage choice, though.
Mayfield said on Amazon’s postgame coverage that he couldn’t believe the Raiders were in press coverage with 15 seconds left and the Rams needing a touchdown to win.
“To be honest with you, I was completely shocked that they lined up in press coverage with 15 seconds,” he said. “I really thought they were gonna try to pop out and play zone but they just stayed with it. Saw the weakside safety stay down and Van’s a great go-ball runner, go up and get it and he won off the line and did a good job.”
Ryan Fitzpatrick, who was sitting next to Mayfield, joked that the Raiders’ defensive coordinator went to Yale, which he’s obviously pegging as inferior to his alma mater, Harvard. Did you know Fitzpatrick went to Harvard?
Anyway, Mayfield took advantage of the Raiders’ baffling coverage choice and hit Jefferson over the top for six, a perfect throw and catch to beat man coverage. | 2022-12-09T06:52:09Z | sports.yahoo.com | Baker Mayfield was ‘completely shocked’ Raiders played press coverage on final play | https://sports.yahoo.com/baker-mayfield-completely-shocked-raiders-053957770.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/baker-mayfield-completely-shocked-raiders-053957770.html?src=rss |
It turns out Baker Mayfield only needs about 48 hours in order to make history with a new team.
Mayfield, who joined the Rams off waivers on Tuesday, led them to one of the most improbable comeback wins in NFL history. Trailing 16-10 with 1:45 left and no timeouts, Mayfield had to lead the Rams 98 yards to score a touchdown for the win.
The Rams' 98-yard TD drive was the longest go-ahead TD drive that began in the final two minutes over the last 45 seasons.
(h/t @EliasSports) pic.twitter.com/yH8aMNgsiS
Mayfield and the Rams couldn’t have asked for a better way to kick off their new partnership, coming from behind to win one of the wildest games of the year. Let’s not forget the Rams trailed 16-3 before scoring not one, but two touchdowns in the final five minutes.
CHICAGO — The School of the Art Institute of Chicago on Thursday rescinded an honorary degree awarded to Kanye West. The decision comes amid growing pressure on West, now known as Ye, after he made repeated public antisemitic statements. Ye recently praised Adolf Hitler on a far-right talk show and was kicked off Twitter for posting a photo of a swastika. “The School of the Art Institute of ... | 2022-12-09T06:53:00Z | sports.yahoo.com | This stat tells you how improbable Rams’ 98-yard game-winning drive was | https://sports.yahoo.com/stat-tells-improbable-rams-98-052108284.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/stat-tells-improbable-rams-98-052108284.html?src=rss |
The Los Angeles Rams might only be 4-9 after beating the Las Vegas Raiders, but the scene in the locker room afterwards tells you everything you need to know about how much a win during a rough season means.
Baker Mayfield was at the center of it all, joining the team just two days ago after being claimed off waivers. He didn’t start the game, but he played every snap after the first three and led the Rams to a miraculous comeback win over Las Vegas. And he had his new teammates fired up in the locker room following the victory.
Sean McVay gave a quick speech to his team before handing a game ball to former Raiders OC Greg Olson (now on the Rams’ staff again) and Mayfield. The quarterback then got swarmed by the team as he broke things downs, saying he’s “happy to be home.”
“Good (expletive) job, man. That’s how you fight. I’m happy to be home, man. Rams on three!” he yelled.
The Rams (almost certainly) aren’t going to make the playoffs, but any wins they get down the stretch will be huge for the morale in the locker room. This is evidence of that, and Mayfield already has his teammates buying in after just one game. | 2022-12-09T06:53:07Z | sports.yahoo.com | Watch: Baker Mayfield had Rams fired up in locker room after beating Raiders | https://sports.yahoo.com/watch-baker-mayfield-had-rams-063452776.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/watch-baker-mayfield-had-rams-063452776.html?src=rss |
No one watching the first 55 minutes of the Rams-Raiders game on Thursday night would tell you it was exciting. There was one touchdown scored between the two teams until the Rams finally found the end zone for the first time with about three minutes to play.
That made it 16-10, which was still a deficity that seemed to put a victory out of reach for the Rams. But then the defense got a three-and-out, forcing the Raiders to punt it back to the Rams with less than 2 minutes to play.
Baker Mayfield, in his first game with the Rams, led the Rams 98 yards with 1:45 left on the clock and threw a game-winning touchdown pass to Van Jefferson with 9 seconds to play.
There were a few highlight-reel plays before that final drive – like Ernest Jones’ interception, Bobby Wagner’s hit on Derek Carr and Mayfield’s dart to Ben Skowronek on third-and-13 – but it’s the final drive that you have to see. | 2022-12-09T06:53:13Z | sports.yahoo.com | Watch highlights from Rams’ epic comeback win vs. Raiders | https://sports.yahoo.com/watch-highlights-rams-epic-comeback-060443210.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/watch-highlights-rams-epic-comeback-060443210.html?src=rss |
“It’s a pretty damn good story,” Mayfield said after the game, per the Associated Press. “I’ll be honest with you. It’s pretty special. … I love to compete. I love this game.”
The Raiders defense allowed 144 yards and two touchdowns in the fourth quarter. With under two minutes to remaining, they surrendered a 98-yard game-winning touchdown drive.
Las Vegas held the Rams offense to 95 total yards in the first half, but it fell apart in the fourth quarter. | 2022-12-09T06:53:19Z | sports.yahoo.com | Winners and losers of TNF: Baker Mayfield leads Rams to improbable comeback win vs. Raiders | https://sports.yahoo.com/winners-losers-tnf-baker-mayfield-051927773.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/winners-losers-tnf-baker-mayfield-051927773.html?src=rss |
Utah explodes for season-high 99 points in win against Jacksonville State
Utah men's basketball raced out to a big lead and never looked back in its 99-58 win over Jacksonville State. In the Pac-12/SWAC Legacy Series matchup, four different Utes scored in double figures including Lazar Stefanovic, who scored 20 points.
Lazar Stefanovic made six of Utah's 16 3-pointers, and the Utes scored the first 19 points of the game and cruised to a 99-58 rout of Jacksonville State on Thursday night for its fourth straight win. Stefanovic finished with 20 points. Branden Carlson added 19 points and Gabe Madsen had 16 for Utah (8-2), and the pair were a combined 7 of 11 from 3-point range. | 2022-12-09T08:23:49Z | sports.yahoo.com | Utah explodes for season-high 99 points in win against Jacksonville State | https://sports.yahoo.com/utah-explodes-season-high-99-053221659.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/utah-explodes-season-high-99-053221659.html?src=rss |
Baker Mayfield played one of the wildest games of the season on Thursday night, leading the Rams to a 17-16 win over the Raiders thanks to a stunning comeback in the fourth quarter. Perhaps the only thing crazier was Mayfield’s celebration after the win.
Following his game-winning touchdown pass to Van Jefferson, Mayfield busted out his insane celebration where he headbutts his teammates – without a helmet on his head. He did it with the Panthers a month ago, and he introduced the Rams to it on Thursday night.
He caught Robert Rochell in the chin with a good headbutt, which seemed to not only surprise Rochell, but the coach who was also celebrating on the sideline.
Check out both of their reactions.
That move would probably hurt a lot more if he wasn’t running on pure adrenaline. Just try to stay out of the concussion protocol, Baker.
(Reuters) -General Electric Co's healthcare division is aiming to have a medium-term organic revenue growth in the mid-single-digits, the unit's Chief Executive Officer Peter Arduini said at an investor day conference on Thursday. GE Healthcare, which will be spun off into a separate listed company early next year, expects an aging population, chronic diseases and a rise in the middle class in many emerging markets to drive growth targets for the company. China, which accounts for about 15% of total GE Healthcare sales, would also help drive growth as there is a pent-up demand in the market, Arduini said.
Insiders sold Illinois Tool Works Inc. (NYSE:ITW) stock at a low of US$205 , meanwhile current prices stay relatively expensive at US$220
Illinois Tool Works Inc.'s (NYSE:ITW) value has fallen 3.2% in the last week, but insiders who sold US$205k worth of... | 2022-12-09T08:24:02Z | sports.yahoo.com | Baker Mayfield introduced the Rams to his wild headbutt celebration | https://sports.yahoo.com/baker-mayfield-introduced-rams-wild-070345348.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/baker-mayfield-introduced-rams-wild-070345348.html?src=rss |
The resolutions of the General Extraordinary Shareholders Meeting (hereinafter - "the Meeting") of special closed-ended type real estate investment company INVL Baltic Real Estate (hereinafter – “the Company”) that was held on 9 December 2022: 1. Presentation of the recommendation of the Company's investment committee regarding the new wording of the articles of association and the provision of depository services 1.1. Shareholders of the Company were presented with the Company‘s investment comm
Update on the Share Buyback Program and the Liquidity AgreementPeriod from 1 December 2022 to 7 December 2022 Share Buyback Program On 25 February 2022, Bekaert announced a € 120 million program to buy back its own shares (the "Program"). The Program was split into four equal tranches of € 30 million and all shares bought as part of the Program will be cancelled. The purpose of the Program is to reduce the issued share capital of the company. The fourth and last tranche of the Program started on | 2022-12-09T08:24:21Z | sports.yahoo.com | Minnesota Vikings at Detroit Lions Prediction Game Preview | https://sports.yahoo.com/minnesota-vikings-detroit-lions-prediction-073315790.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/minnesota-vikings-detroit-lions-prediction-073315790.html?src=rss |
INGLEWOOD, Calif. (AP) A season of painful defeats for the Las Vegas Raiders just got worse.
''It's tough. There's really cool stories and cool moments for some guys. I'm sure Baker will have that moment for the rest of his life,'' Raiders quarterback Derek Carr said. ''It's frustrating, but it's not something that we are talking about like, `Hey, this is a big opportunity,' because of this.''
''I don't know if I got tripped, but something happened,'' Carr said. ''Mack (Hollins) was open in the back of the end zone and I was trying to get him the ball. That's a tough feeling because we were close to having a touchdown, and everyone's feeling better about today.''
''We didn't finish the game. The bottom line is, until we figure out how to stop losing games with mistakes that we do to ourselves, then it makes it very difficult to win,'' coach Josh McDaniels said. ''You can't really win until you stop from losing. Penalties and turnovers contribute to that.''
''This isn't an offense, defense or special teams thing. It's a team thing,'' McDaniels said. ''We can not let our foot off the gas. I'm trying to play the same way we were playing when the game starts. Obviously, I haven't done a good enough job of being able to get us to do that.'' | 2022-12-09T08:24:40Z | sports.yahoo.com | Raiders blow 4th double-digit halftime lead in latest loss | https://sports.yahoo.com/raiders-blow-4th-double-digit-065536981.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/raiders-blow-4th-double-digit-065536981.html?src=rss |
Riding high off a three-game win-streak, the Raiders sauntered into LA to face the Rams with a third string quarterback and Baker Mayfield who was signed two days before.
Things got going just as they had hoped and seemed to expect, with the Raiders driving for a touchdown on their opening drive. That drive featured a highlight reel one-handed grab by Davante Adams and finished with an 11-yard run by Jacobs off a pitch and they punched it in from one-yard out.
That would be their only touchdown drive of the game and it seemed like they thought they could move the ball enough against the Rams while the Rams wouldn’t be able to score on them. So, they got conservative.
They ran Josh Jacobs into the ground despite Jacobs getting held to 3.2 yards per carry in the first half.
In the third quarter, the Raiders were up 13-3. A touchdown likely would’ve put the game out of reach. But instead they went three-and-out twice, the first one opting to punt on 4th and one from the LA 49. That screams ‘we got this.’
“In a game like that, I thought the defense was playing well there was a couple fourth downs where field position was involved certainly,” said McDaniels after the game. “Made the decision to put it up 16-3 and not go for it on 4th and one.”
For most of the game, they were feeling pretty good about that game plan. You could see why that 16-3 fourth quarter lead might seem pretty secure. And had the ball fallen their way a few times, they may have been able to escape with that. But as it often happens, you play with fire and you might just get burned.
The Rams drove for a touchdown in the fourth quarter to make it a one-score game. And the Raiders still went out there like they had this one. Three-straight hand-offs and they were punting after taking just 1:19 off the clock and leaving the Rams with 2:00 to drive for the win.
The Rams got a lot to go their way to go 98 yards for the win. But that’s just how things go sometimes. The Raiders job was to put the game out of reach, so none of that would matter. And they didn’t do it.
“We’re just sick about it,” said Maxx Crosby. “It’s tough. We play good football for most of the game, but just didn’t close the game. And it’s happened before. It’s just unfortunate. We have work to do. Simple as that. It sucks because you’re in a game and you feel like you’ve done enough to finish it and then we just keep giving them chances. It’s just all self-inflicted s–t. So, that’s what makes it harder.”
Crosby is of course going to see the mistakes they made on defense as the issue. That’s the lens he looks through. He’s right that the defense played good football most of the game. And that two bad penalties on the final drive were killers. But it simply should not have come down to that.
“As a team we didn’t finish the game the right way,” said Derek Carr. “This is the NFL, it’s going to be close, it’s going to be tough sometimes. . . We left some plays out there and some points out there and then at the end of the game, I just don’t think we finished it how we could’ve finished it to win the game and not even have to put the defense out there like that.”
To Carr’s credit, he understands that the offense should not have put the defense in this position. And when asked, he put deferred to his head coach.
“I’m not sure. That’s a better question for Josh,” Carr said of Raiders conservative play calling. “Whatever’s called, we’re trying to execute it at a high level. There’s times where there’s runs and pass checks and different things based on looks that we get and things like that. Sometimes it can end up that way too. But for me personally, whatever Josh is calling, we’re just trying to execute that and make it happen.”
Josh McDaniels, on the other hand, took a different approach, opting not to see it as a problem with play calling or game plan, but rather flat out blaming the turnovers and penalties. Which is to say, Derek Carr’s interception in the end zone and Jerry Tillery’s unsportsmanlike conduct penalty on the final drive.
“We got off to a decent start and we didn’t capitalize,” said McDaniels. “The bottom line is until we figure out how to stop losing games with mistakes that we do ourselves, then it makes it very difficult to win. You can’t win until you stop losing and that’s penalties, turnovers, things like that that contribute to that. We’ve talked a lot about that and we obviously need to do a better job of coaching it and trying to get us to play better.”
The Raiders could’ve come in and used the energy and momentum they had built in the big win over the Chargers last week and ran the Rams out of the building. But instead they got high on their own supply and paid the price for it.
Even with the Rams having lost six-straight coming in on a short week with a quarterback that literally had 20 plays he ran in practice this week, this is still an NFL game against NFL players. They can’t be taken lightly and you can never try and skate your way to escaping with a win. It just doesn’t work that way.
It makes it all the more ironic that Maxx Crosby was supposedly quoting Josh McDaniels when he gave the most poynent quote of the night.
“You got to treat every single play like it’s the end of the game, like it’s the most important play on the planet,” Crosby said. “You can’t take your foot off the gas just because it’s the second quarter and it’s second-and-five. It’s got to be the same every play. You just got to have 53 guys doing that and on the same page and tonight we didn’t do that.”
Following the release of two trailers, The Super Mario Bros. Movie has now premiered the first full... | 2022-12-09T08:24:46Z | sports.yahoo.com | Raiders seemed to take Rams lightly and paid dearly for it ‘just didn’t close the game’ | https://sports.yahoo.com/raiders-seemed-rams-lightly-paid-070120153.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/raiders-seemed-rams-lightly-paid-070120153.html?src=rss |
The Los Angeles Rams haven’t technically been eliminated from playoff contention yet, so they’re playing for more than just pride. But on Thursday night, their win over the Las Vegas Raiders was very much about pride.
They stunned the Raiders with a miraculous comeback, erasing a 13-point deficit with two touchdowns in the final four minutes to take down Las Vegas. Baker Mayfield was the biggest factor in it all, but he didn’t do it alone.
Here’s a look at our studs and duds from Thursday night’s victory at SoFi Stadium.
Even before the game-winning drive, Mayfield was having a pretty solid night, given the circumstances. He was pushing the ball downfield, which was a nice change from the last four weeks, and created some chunk plays through the air. On his first few drives alone, he had completions of 21 yards, 22 yards and 22 yards.
Then on the final game-winning march, he hit Ben Skowronek for a 32-yard gain and the 23-yarder to Van Jefferson to put the Rams up 17-16. He used his athleticism to elude pressure, too, which helped keep the chains moving.
Obviously, the ending was as good as it gets, but Mayfield had already displayed impressive poise and accuracy on the field throughout the night.
Stud: Greg Gaines
No one can replace Aaron Donald, and Gaines certainly isn’t trying to do that. But the game he had on Thursday night helped make up for the absence of No. 99. Gaines did an excellent job as a run defender against the league’s leading rusher, Josh Jacobs, but he was also very good as a pass rusher despite not recording a sack. He finished with six tackles and a QB hit, with his pressure late in the first half leading to Ernest Jones’ interception. That proved to be a pivotal play in the game.
Stud: Ernest Jones
Speaking of Jones, that pick was a huge shift in momentum. The Raiders were leading 13-3 and threatening to go up 17 points before halftime. Derek Carr threw up a duck toward the end zone, which Jones tapped to himself and came down with for an interception. He finished the game with five tackles and overall had a great night, helping keep Jacobs in check to the tune of 3.7 yards per carry.
Wagner has been great all season, but he showed up in a huge way for the second week in a row. He finished with a game-high 14 tackles, making a key stop on third-and-5 to force the Raiders to settle for a long field goal early in the game. He also chased down Carr and leveled him along the sideline, keeping him short of the first-down line. There were several other impactful plays made by the future Hall of Famer, particularly against the Raiders’ run-heavy attack.
Stud: Ben Skowronek
If Mayfield was Batman in this win, Skowronek was Robin. He was incredibly clutch for his new quarterback, catching seven of eight targets for a career-high 89 yards. The biggest play of the game, aside from Jefferson’s winner, may have been Skowronek’s 32-yard reception over a Raiders defender on the final drive. This was the best game of his young career so far.
Dud: Entire offensive line
Thursday night was the first time the Rams have started the same offensive line group in multiple games this season. And yet, it was a complete disaster. Rob Havenstein was dominated by Maxx Crosby, Ty Nsekhe couldn’t block Chandler Jones, Matt Skura was getting walked back at left guard and Coleman Shelton cost the Rams three points with an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty. It was a terrible night for the big men up front, failing to protect Mayfield with any sort of consistency.
Dud: Cam Akers
Yes, he scored a touchdown late to keep the Rams alive, but Akers did not have a good game. He averaged just 3.5 yards per carry and coughed up an incredibly costly fumble in Raiders territory when the Rams were starting to find a rhythm offensively. His ball security issues have come at the worst times the last two years, whether it was the one against the Raiders or at the goal line earlier this season.
Chester Zoo says the birth of a female calf is an "important moment" for conservation of the species. | 2022-12-09T08:24:52Z | sports.yahoo.com | Studs and duds from Rams’ stunning win over Raiders | https://sports.yahoo.com/studs-duds-rams-stunning-win-065514790.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/studs-duds-rams-stunning-win-065514790.html?src=rss |
The Washington Commanders finally have a week off. Winners of six of their last eight games, the Commanders’ bye week couldn’t have come at a better time. In the Week 13 tie with the New York Giants, Washington suffered multiple injuries along the offensive line.
In addition, the bye week gives injured players such as cornerback Benjamin St-Juste and defensive end Chase Young extra rest. St-Juste has missed the last two games with an ankle injury, while Young has yet to make his 2022 debut.
At 7-5-1, the Commanders control their own destiny as it relates to the playoffs. If Washington can win three of its final four games, a playoff spot is almost certain. If the Commanders win two of their final four games, they will be in a good position.
Here is the remaining schedule:
Week 15: Giants
Week 16: at 49ers
Week 17: Browns
Week 18: Cowboys
That’s a difficult schedule. Three of the remaining four teams have a winning record, and the Browns [5-7] will have quarterback Deshaun Watson back and playing in his fifth game.
With Washington off in Week 14, there are games that will impact the Commanders in the playoff race. Washington is currently a half-game out of the final NFC playoff spot. The Giants [7-4-1] hold the No. 6 position, while the Seahawks [7-5] hold the No. 7 spot.
Each of the NFC’s three current wild-card teams are in action this weekend. The Dallas Cowboys, at 9-3, are a near certainty to make the playoffs. The Cowboys face the Houston Texans Sunday, so Dallas essentially has the final wild-card spot locked up.
The two teams just ahead of the Commanders — the Seattle Seahawks and New York Giants — are in action this weekend.
Ideally, the Commanders want and need both the Giants and Seahawks to lose. You have to like Philadelphia’s chances at taking down the Giants. Meanwhile, you probably shouldn’t get your hopes up for the 4-8 Panthers to win in Seattle. But the Panthers are a feisty bunch who keep games competitive.
As of now, FiveThirtyEight gives the Commanders a 69% chance to make the playoffs — ahead of the Giants. The Giants’ latest playoff odds are at 51%. Meanwhile, the Seahawks are at 79%.
The Commanders host the Giants in Week 15 on Sunday Night Football.
Today we'll do a simple run through of a valuation method used to estimate the attractiveness of Bath & Body Works... | 2022-12-09T11:26:38Z | sports.yahoo.com | Commanders playoff rooting guide: Which teams can help Washington in Week 14? | https://sports.yahoo.com/commanders-playoff-rooting-guide-teams-105723700.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/commanders-playoff-rooting-guide-teams-105723700.html?src=rss |
Encouraging news from Avonte Maddox originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia
Soon after his first full practice since Nov. 1, Avonte Maddox said he felt “pretty good.”
Then he paused and smiled and said, “Actually, I feel great.”
And that’s great news for the Eagles, who appear to have a good chance to get their slot cornerback on Sunday.
The Eagles placed Maddox on Injured Reserve Nov. 14 with a hamstring injury he suffered the previous week against the Texans. He was required to miss at least four games before becoming eligible to play again, and after he sat out the Commanders, Colts, Packers and Titans games, the Eagles opened his practice window earlier this week.
He still has one more test in Friday’s practice, but Thursday was a big step forward.
“Went well, able to run, didn’t do anything too crazy,” he said. “We’ll see how I’m doing as the week continues and hopefully be ready on Sunday. Definitely encouraged. Just being back being able to run again. There was a point where I couldn’t even walk without hurting myself.”
Maddox got hurt in the third quarter during the Thursday night game in Houston on Nov. 3. He said he’s never dealt with a hamstring before, so it’s a new experience figuring out how to navigate these last few weeks.
“They already told me if I feel anything, just let them know and they’ll shut me down, but I’m confident in the treatment I’ve gotten, the trainers took care of me and feel like strength is the part I need to (improve) the most right now,” he said.
“Still feels a little fatigued just running on it right now. I just have to know the difference between being tired or if I’m over-stressing it, and I feel like I know the difference. I’ll be tired because I haven’t been doing anything for a month, but other than that I feel really good.”
Maddox started five of the six games he’s played this year and has 33 starts since the Eagles made him a fourth-round pick in 2018. In the five games he’s played start to finish this year, he’s been on the field for 86 percent of the Eagles’ defensive snaps. Only Marcus Epps (99 percent), James Bradberry (98), T.J. Edwards (95) and Darius Slay (89) have played a higher percentage of snaps when healthy.
Maddox has 27 tackles, three pass knockdowns, one tackle for loss and one forced fumble this year. He has four career interceptions, including one in the Eagles’ win over the Vikings in Week 2.
With Jordan Davis and Maddox off IR, the next player the Eagles should get back is tight end Dallas Goedert, who went on IR Nov. 16 with a shoulder injury suffered against the Commanders.
Safety Chauncey Gardner-Johnson went on IR Saturday with the lacerated kidney he suffered against the Packers. He’s out for at least another three games.
“Definitely nice to see,” Maddox said. “Feels like we’re getting somebody back almost every week. Bam-Bam (Davis) last week, then me and Dallas next. Great to get back to being almost a complete team and seeing how far we can go.” | 2022-12-09T11:26:44Z | sports.yahoo.com | Eagles cornerback Avonte Maddox delivers encouraging news | https://sports.yahoo.com/eagles-cornerback-avonte-maddox-delivers-103800821.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/eagles-cornerback-avonte-maddox-delivers-103800821.html?src=rss |
Gainwell starting to get into a rhythm last couple of weeks originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia
Kenny Gainwell got an early indication that Sunday’s game against the Titans was going to go pretty well for him.
He got his first touch of the game on the first drive of the game and made it count.
Gainwell caught a pass from Jalen Hurts in the middle of the field, pulled off a nifty spin move and picked up 14 yards to help the Eagles score their first touchdown in the 35-10 blowout.
“I wanted him to be closer so it could be better,” Gainwell said with a chuckle on Thursday. “I wanted to hit another move on him but the spin move came out. It felt good though to go out there and do what I used to do.”
Usage and production for the 23-year-old second-year running back has been up and down this season and he’s had to wait his turn.
But the last few weeks, the Eagles are turning to Gainwell a little more and the former fifth-round pick is starting to find his rhythm.
“Oh yeah, for sure,” Gainwell said. “Just having the opportunity to show my talents and what I can do on the field, it’s just getting into the flow.”
Against the Commanders and Colts in Weeks 10 and 11, Gainwell got a total of just three offensive touches for 12 yards. In the last two games against the Packers and Titans, Gainwell has 15 touches for 99 yards.
While Gainwell would obviously love to be used more in the offense — who wouldn’t? — he’s taken head coach Nick Sirianni’s philosophy about roles seriously. Because Miles Sanders has stayed healthy and because the Eagles have a ton of weapons on offense, there just aren’t a lot of touches left for Gainwell.
So he just has to make the most of the ones he gets.
“You just gotta go day by day. You gotta understand that it’s going to be like that,” Gainwell said. “It’s no hard feelings, especially if you’re 11-1. It’s helps to be winning. You can’t be mad about it. The only thing you can do is create opportunity for yourself and work hard every day and put it on film.”
Gainwell this season has played 27% of the Eagles’ offensive snaps but he’s gotten those snaps in a lot of crucial situations. Because of his ability as a receiver, Gainwell is the Eagles’ 2-minute drill back and he also gets a ton of reps on third downs.
You don’t get those reps if the coaching staff doesn’t trust you.
And even though he’s just 5-foot-9 and 200 pounds, Gainwell works hard to be the best pass protecting back he can be. To be fair, he still has a ways to go, but he’s putting in the work.
“You might think a guy my size is not fit to do that but I’m a tough-nosed guy,” Gainwell said. “It’s just me setting myself up to attack the guy that’s bigger than me. Basically inside-out, just take him out with all the force I have.”
In Year 2, Gainwell’s role with the Eagles hasn’t changed all that much. Some expected him to take a huge jump in Year 2 but we haven’t seen that on the stat sheet, which isn’t too surprising given the amount of weapons on the Eagles’ roster.
And we might be seeing more touches go Gainwell’s way recently because the Eagles have been without star tight end Dallas Goedert.
Through 12 games, Gainwell has 278 scrimmage yards and is on pace to finish his second season with significantly fewer yards than he had as a rookie. But Gainwell also already has four rushing touchdowns and is just happy to play a role on the best team in the NFL.
For now, he’s getting his opportunities to touch the football and he’s loving it. But he’s also not going to pout if those touches dry up soon either.
“Man, you gotta be ready,” Gainwell said. “Take from practice to the field, practice to the field. How you practice every day, that’s how you get ready for game day. So I’m just making sure I practice hard.”
Staff picks: Pitt looking to make it six in a row
The Pitt Panthers are playing their best stretch of basketball in quite some time. Pitt has reeled off five straight wins, including an impressive 68-60 win over North Carolina State on the road last Friday. Jeff Capel's team now has a 6-3 record and will be looking to make it six straight wins tonight, though it will be another challenge. | 2022-12-09T11:26:51Z | sports.yahoo.com | Eagles’ Kenny Gainwell getting into rhythm last couple weeks | https://sports.yahoo.com/eagles-kenny-gainwell-getting-rhythm-103900412.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/eagles-kenny-gainwell-getting-rhythm-103900412.html?src=rss |
This is what Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll had to say when asked about Geno Smith’s quarterback play so far this season.
If anyone in the start of the season was to say that the Seattle Seahawks would be in playoff contention after getting rid of their franchise quarterback Russell Wilson; we would have called them crazy! Especially in a talent filled NFC West that have the reigning Super Bowl champions the Los Angeles Rams and the Arizona Cardinals, who went 11-6 in 2021.
The fact remains that the Seahawks are one game behind the first place San Francisco 49ers (8-4), and they are fighting for an NFC wild-card spot.
Before this season, Smith only started five games across the span of six years. Now he’s sitting at the top of the league in completion percentage (72.7%) and currently holds the franchise record for most consecutive games with a 100+ passer rating (six).
These are just two of the reasons why Geno Smith should be paid this off season and if Carroll wants to have success in 2023 and beyond, he should make Smith the Seahawks next franchise quarterback.
Because it’s clear that he already is just that.
Smith has shown all the franchise traits you want.
When asking, “What is a franchise quarterback?” you will get a bunch of different answers that are centered around the same ideas. Talent, consistency, leadership and most importantly, a guy who fits, understands and trusts the coach’s system.
Most often, that a franchise will draft a guy and then find out later that their prospect is missing one or more of these qualities. What makes it worse is the media hype around young quarterbacks coming out of college. Front offices don’t give their investments the time to develop.
When looking back at Smith’s career, it’s fair to say that he wasn’t really given the time to succeed with the New York Jets, who took him in the second round of the 2013 draft out of West Virginia. Some would say that it was justified, but he was still thrust into the starting role after Mark Sanchez’s departure.
There was a slight improvement in Smith’s stat line from year one to year two, but he only had three wins to show for it. It was only after the locker room tussle (in the 2015 preseason) that pretty much ended Smith’s chances of ever becoming a starter again for the Jets franchise.
Smith was out!
Nobody would have ever thought that he would be playing this well seven years later. Carroll’s [West Coast] offense has really been a perfect fit for Smith’s skillset. As our own Doug Farrar pointed out back in October, Smith has taken control of Carroll’s offense. This is what the coach had to say when asked about his offensive scheme:
“He [Bill Walsh] designed his offense to make it as easy as possible for the quarterbacks because he knew the position was so hard to play. And remember all the catch and run stuff and all the quick rhythm stuff that he was famous for, that was so the quarterback didn’t have to be carrying the load. He can get the ball out of his hands, working with his line and his guys and all that. That just has always resonated. That’s what West Coast is. West Coast is long lost from where it was, but that was all of Coach Walsh’s image of what that position and how it should function in terms of how a team plays football. They’ve featured a tremendous amount of short passing game. He was kind of the guy that started all that.”
This season, Smith has incorporated all the qualifications that it takes to run Carroll’s offense… and he is exceeding expectations!
Winning under pressure.
As previously mentioned, this week Smith broke a Seahawks franchise record with the most consecutive 100+ passer rating games, with six. This is all because of Smith’s ability to work within the pocket.
Here is what Carroll had to say about Smith’s performance after last week’s win against the Rams:
“He was in control of it, moved in the pocket really well, really sudden movements to move up, he was consistent and comfortable the whole day and it showed in the last drive, he had no problem at all. Executing the stuff, he didn’t hit everything on that drive, but he hit everything he needed to hit, and really, again he continued to show us that he’s very much at home running our offense.”
Smith has maintained a 107.7 passer rating from the pocket, which is the fourth highest average in the league, per Sports Info Solutions.
Here are a few clips from this season showing Smith’s ability to maneuver within the pocket and throw on-target passes downfield.
Smith showed great poise in the pocket as he waited for his receiver DK Metcalf to clear out. Once he saw that Tyler Lockett had nothing but grass ahead of him, he delivered a strike to hit his receiver in stride so he could reach the endzone.
In the second quarter the Seahawks were inside their own 10-yard line. His center loses the leverage battle and even with a defensive tackle in his lap, he’s able to deliver a strike up the seam.
With the Rams lined up in a cover four defensive shell, this means that the cornerback will be dropping quickly up the sideline. The play call is testing that cornerback and also the safety to that side. The design is to read what the two defenders do.
With the little time that Smith has because of the defensive end coming free and he still has to fake the handoff, Smith gets this ball out before Metcalf even turns around.
This is trust in the system.
He also put trust in his star player Metcalf, on the last drive of the game, which also happened to be against one of the best cornerbacks in the league Jalen Ramsey.
Ramsey got sonned btw also Geno Smith masterclass game 🤧 pic.twitter.com/xsFH1kxm6U
Smith is the quarterback of the present, and he should be the quarterback of the future.
With the Seahawks in a potential playoff position, it would be wise for them to sign Smith to an extension right now. Smith has shown no signs of slowing down with only five games left in the season, and if he continues to play well, it will only give him a bigger payday.
This is what Carroll had to say a few weeks ago when he was asked about signing Smith to an extension:
“That’s a really good question, we’re not there talking about that yet,” Carroll said. “We’re in the middle of the season, and we’re doing the things we need to do. But there’s a conversation that’s coming. We understand that.”
The Seahawks are in a great position for next year’s draft. They have the third and 20th overall selections at this time. If they sign Smith to a long-term deal now, they can fill other holes to improve the team as a whole. Then draft a quarterback with their second pick, or in the later rounds who can sit behind Smith.
With Smith’s talent, consistency, leadership and scheme-fit, he is the perfect player for a young prospect to learn from in the Seahawks offense. He’s undoubtedly proved this year that he is a franchise quarterback; despite the amount of time that it took to get here.
If we’ve learned anything from this, it’s that some quarterbacks just aren’t drafted in the right situations that allow them to flourish. The Seahawks should take this as a blueprint, sign Geno Smith now and give a new prospect time to develop. | 2022-12-09T11:26:57Z | sports.yahoo.com | Geno Smith should be the Seahawks’ franchise quarterback, because he already is | https://sports.yahoo.com/geno-smith-seahawks-franchise-quarterback-100132093.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/geno-smith-seahawks-franchise-quarterback-100132093.html?src=rss |
Ravens OC Greg Roman discusses growth from QB Tyler Huntley
The Baltimore Ravens defeated the Denver Broncos in Week 13 by the final score of 10-9, and now gear up for a Week 14 matchup with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Quarterback Lamar Jackson left the team’s win over Denver with a knee injury in the first half and didn’t return to the contest, meaning quarterback Tyler Huntley took over and in turn led the team to victory.
Jackson seems unlikely to play in Week 14, leaving Huntley in line to start once again. Baltimore offensive coordinator Greg Roman was asked about the growth he’s seen from Huntley dating back from his time as a starter for the injured Jackson in 2021, and said there’s plenty of growth to be seen.
“I definitely see it. I think you saw it in the preseason when [Tyler Huntley] played. [Huntley has] just a real command of things. Really, in every way, he’s really improved. And there’s so much that goes into playing quarterback in this league – people don’t realize the extent of it – and that’s just before the ball is snapped. And then it’s snapped, and then you’ve got 22 people that you’ve got to make pinpoint decisions around. So, that’s why playing at a high level in the NFL is a bit of a rarity when you take the whole population into account. So, he’s improving, really, in every area, and I don’t know if there’s one specifically, but I think his teammates, as we mentioned earlier, really have a lot of faith in him.” | 2022-12-09T11:27:06Z | sports.yahoo.com | Ravens OC Greg Roman discusses growth from QB Tyler Huntley | https://sports.yahoo.com/ravens-oc-greg-roman-discusses-045027384.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/ravens-oc-greg-roman-discusses-045027384.html?src=rss |
Baseball’s hot stove is firing up. The Winter Meetings took place this week in San Diego, and MLB teams are making moves, signing free agents and laying the groundwork for the 2023 season.
Results and schedules for University of Vermont men's hockey and women's basketball teams from Dec. 8-11, 2022.
In a move that caught many by surprise, China announced a potentially major easing of its rigid “zero-COVID” restrictions, without formally abandoning the policy altogether. It’s not clear what exactly prompted the move, although it follows the largest show of public dissent against the ruling Communist Party in more than 30 years by residents fed up with constant testing, quarantines, travel restrictions, rolling lockdowns and business closures. Among the most significant changes is one that allows people who test positive for COVID-19 but show no or only mild symptoms to recuperate at home rather than being forced into one of the government field hospitals that have become notorious for overcrowding, lights that stay on 24 hours and poor food and hygiene. | 2022-12-09T11:52:26Z | sports.yahoo.com | Analyzing every MLB free agent signing: Nimmo stays with Mets, Padres splurge to lure Bogaerts | https://sports.yahoo.com/analyzing-every-mlb-free-agent-signing-nimmo-stays-with-mets-padres-splurge-to-lure-bogaerts-170314530.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/analyzing-every-mlb-free-agent-signing-nimmo-stays-with-mets-padres-splurge-to-lure-bogaerts-170314530.html?src=rss |
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Browns' injury report includes Amari Cooper, Denzel Ward, David Njoku
Van Jones Issues An Apology To The Jewish Community For Kanye On Behalf Of Black People, Allegedly
Updated Dec. 8, 2022 Van Jones issued an apology on behalf of the Black community when he spoke about antisemitic views during his speech at the UJA-Federation of New York Wall Street Dinner on Tuesday, reported via a tweet by senior political reporter of The Forward, Jacob Kornbluh.
Pete Davidson has made a return to Instagram, this time in a joint account with former NFL quarterback Eli Manning. The unlikely duo has been active on Instagram since its launch. | 2022-12-09T11:52:32Z | sports.yahoo.com | Cleveland Browns' injury report includes Amari Cooper, Denzel Ward, David Njoku | https://sports.yahoo.com/cleveland-browns-injury-report-includes-061232705.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/cleveland-browns-injury-report-includes-061232705.html?src=rss |
Kerr, Warriors share heartfelt Griner message after her release originally appeared on NBC Sports Bayarea
Griner was in Russian detention for nearly 10 months before the U.S. government completed a prisoner exchange with Russia on Thursday.
"Much love. We’re so thrilled for you and your family. Welcome home.”
Griner, who has played nine WNBA seasons for the Phoenix Mercury, was arrested at a Russian airport in February for having less than one gram of hashish oil in her luggage. She was found guilty by the Russian court for drug smuggling and possession charges in August and was sentenced to nine years in prison.
“There has not been a day over the past 10 months where we all haven't had Brittney Griner on our minds and in our hearts and that has now turned into a collective wave of joy and relief knowing that she will soon be reunited with her family, the WNBA player community, and her friends,” WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert said in a statement.
RELATED: JK, Clarkson explain dust-up late in Warriors' loss to Jazz
"Brittney has had to endure an unimaginable situation and we’re thrilled that she is on her way home to family and friends," NBA commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement.
Griner is heading back home. Kerr, the Warriors and the rest of the basketball community are relieved Griner can get back to her life.
Jarred Vanderbilt with a dunk vs the Golden State Warriors
Jarred Vanderbilt (Utah Jazz) with a dunk vs the Golden State Warriors, 12/07/2022 | 2022-12-09T12:36:30Z | sports.yahoo.com | Brittney Griner receives heartfelt message from Steve Kerr, Warriors | https://sports.yahoo.com/brittney-griner-receives-heartfelt-message-230057800.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/brittney-griner-receives-heartfelt-message-230057800.html?src=rss |
Scooby Axson and Chris Bumbaca, USA TODAY
Phoenix Mercury center and WNBA All-Star Brittney Griner has been released from a Russian penal colony and is in United States custody after a prisoner exchange for arms dealer Viktor Bout, President Joe Biden confirmed Thursday morning.
Senior administration officials said Griner had been released from the penal colony within the last 48 hours and taken to Moscow before flying to the United Arab Emirates and is currently on her way back to the United States.
In a speech at the White House, Biden said the exchange had been in the works for the past two weeks, and that he had given the final go-ahead. He added that he had spoken with Griner on the phone. Griner's wife, Cherelle Griner, was at the White House on Thursday.
The deal is the second prisoner exchange with Russia in eight months. Biden’s administration had faced increasing pressure to get Griner released, and in November after the midterms, Biden said he hoped Russian President Vladimir Putin would talk more seriously about a prisoner exchange.
Biden has a fraught relationship with Putin that has become more volatile during the war in Ukraine, with Biden having called Putin a war criminal and a “pure thug” who is waging an immoral war against the people of Ukraine.
Brittney Griner's family releases statement
"We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to President Biden and his administration for the tireless work they did to bring Brittney home. We would also like to extend a special thank you to Governor Richardson and Mickey Bergman of the Richardson Center for their work, as well as remaining in constant communication with us.
"We ask that you respect our privacy as we embark on this road to healing." — The Griner Family
Former coach Kim Mulkey finally breaks silence on Brittney Griner
Over the past several months, former Baylor coach Kim Mulkey has not commented on Griner's situation. But the LSU's women's basketball coach offered well wishes to her former standout player in a statement to ESPN.
"God is good. Prayers are powerful. Brittney is on her way home where she belongs," Mulkey told ESPNW's M.A. Voepel. "Our prayers remain with her and her family as they recover and heal together." – Cory Diaz
Griner will receive a full medical and mental check-up, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said.
Watch: The moment Brittney Griner learned she was going home
Griner smiled as she received the news that she was going home after being detained in Russia for 294 days. Her expression was one of happiness and relief.
Footage from Russian State media showed Griner boarding a plane at Al Bateen Executive Airport in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, during the prisoner exchange. She said she "didn't know where" she was headed, but was "happy" to be out of a Russian penal colony.
Some faces of Russian officials were blurred during the exchange for Bout.
Whelan, a former Marine and corporate security executive, was detained in Russia in December 2018 and sentenced to 16 years in prison. U.S. officials characterized the espionage charges against Whelan as "bogus," and it was requested that Whelan be released along with Griner, but that was rejected.
Senior administration officials said Thursday that there was only one option for Griner's release and that was a 1-for-1 exchange for Bout as Russia insisted that was the only way Griner would be released from their custody.
"It is so important to me that it is clear that we do not begrudge Ms. Griner her freedom," Whelan's brother, David, said in an email to the media on Thursday. "As I have often remarked, Brittney's and Paul's cases were never really intertwined. It has always been a strong possibility that one might be freed without the other.
"The sentiments I shared in April about Trevor (Reed) are unchanged: this is the event we wish for so much for our own family. She will be reunited with her family. Brittney is free. And Paul is still a hostage."
Jean-Pierre, the White House press secretary, said it became clear in recent weeks that Russia would not negotiate in good faith regarding Whelan's release.
Basketball community speaks out
On ESPN's "First Take" Thursday morning, South Carolina women's basketball coach Dawn Staley, who has talked daily on her social media accounts about Griner’s situation, said the news of Griner’s release moved her to tears.
“I cried,” Staley said. “...This is the moment we’ve all been praying for. I know her heart is for the voiceless, I think her voice will be as strong as strong can be … when she speaks out, when she advocates for those who have been in the position she’s been in, that we continue to wrap our arms around her, to make sure she has the strength to continue to endure the fight that’s ahead of her — because there’s a fight."
Griner has played for the Mercury for nine seasons, after she was drafted No. 1 overall in the 2013 WNBA draft following a dominant college career at Baylor. She is a two-time Defensive Player of the Year, a three-time first-team All-WNBA selection and the league's career leader in blocks per game.
The Mercury and Suns said in a joint statement Thursday that their emotions were of "joyous celebration, deep gratitude, grief for the time lost and sincere hope for all families still awaiting the return of a loved one."
Las Vegas Aces coach Becky Hammon, who played in Russia for seven years, said on ESPN that with Griner’s return “our whole WNBA family, it’s a sisterhood” is complete again.
NBA commissioner Adam Silver said the league is thrilled that Griner is on her way home to her family and friends. "We thank the members of the NBA and WNBA community who never wavered in their efforts to raise awareness of Brittney's unjust circumstances," Silver said.
WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert spoke of Griner's courage and dignity in her statement.
Cherelle Griner: 'Today, my family is whole'
Cherelle Griner said she was "overwhelmed with emotions" after learning her wife would be released from a Russian prison and thanked Vice President Harris, Secretary of State Antony Blinken and National security adviser Jake Sullivan for their efforts.
"So over the last nine months, you all have been so privy to one of the darkest moments of my life, and so today I'm just standing here overwhelmed with emotions, but the most important emotion that I have right now is just sincere gratitude for President Biden and his entire administration," Cherelle Griner said at the White House. "It's a happy day for me and my family."
WNBA commissioner: 'Players really want to see her'
WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert said she’d heard over the last week that a swap for Griner might come to fruition soon, but she hesitated to get too excited until it was a done deal. When she heard the news early Thursday morning, the usually stoic commissioner got choked up.
“I can’t tell you what this means to the whole WNBA community to have her home safely,” Engelbert said, adding that while the league wants to respect Griner’s privacy and allow her time to recover from the 10-month ordeal, she knows “players really want to see her, they’ll fly anywhere to see her.”
– Lindsay Schnell
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Brittney Griner is free: Updates on WNBA star's release from Russia
Wordle was the most-searched term around the globe in 2022, edging out terms such as World Cup, iPhone 14 and Jeffrey Dahmer. Wordle, a once-a-day online word game, exploded in popularity at the start of the year and peaked in search results in February, according to figures compiled by Google, a division of Alphabet Wordle, which was acquired by the New York Times in January, was the top-searched term both in the U.S. and globally. “India vs England,” a reference to cricket matches between the two nations, was the second-most searched term around the globe in 2022.
The Person of the Year reception included a video message from 2022 Person of the Year Volodymyr Zelensky
Should the law pass, it's not immediately clear whether the state has the power to dictate the reform on the city level. | 2022-12-09T12:36:36Z | sports.yahoo.com | Brittney Griner is free: Latest updates on WNBA star's release in prisoner swap with Russia | https://sports.yahoo.com/brittney-griner-released-part-prisoner-133020326.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/brittney-griner-released-part-prisoner-133020326.html?src=rss |
U.S. President Joe Biden on Thursday announced he’d won the release of American basketball star Brittney Griner, after months in Russian custody.
Biden described Russia’s prosecution of Griner as a "show trial," and said he never waved in his commitment to see her freed.
UPDATE 9-Brittney Griner freed from Russia, swapped for notorious arms dealer
STORY: Griner was traded for Russian citizen Viktor Bout, a former arms dealer. The exchange took place in the United Arab Emirates at Abu Dhabi airport, where the two walked past each other on a tarmac, a U.S. administration official said.Griner, a player of the Women's National Basketball Association's Phoenix Mercury, was arrested on Feb. 17. Talks to secure her release were complicated by Russia's invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24 and the subsequent deep souring of ties between Washington and Moscow.
The brother of an American detained in Russia since 2018 said Thursday that his family fears he will not be released for years, even as they supported the U.S. government's agreement to a prisoner exchange that freed WNBA star Brittney Griner but left Paul Whelan behind. Whelan, a Michigan corporate security executive, has been jailed on espionage charges that his family and the U.S. government have said are baseless. U.S. officials said Russia refused to consider including Whelan in the Griner deal, calling it a “one or none” decision.
Southwest will designate a space in the gate area where families can gather so they can pre-board before the start of the normal boarding process.
Accused ringleader charged in ticket scheme involving street racers
Russia freed WNBA star Brittney Griner on Thursday in a high-profile prisoner exchange with the U.S. But they failed to win freedom for another American, Paul Whelan, who has been jailed for nearly four years. The Washington Post spoke to experts about what Griner’s release may mean for the future of other American hostages. | 2022-12-09T12:36:55Z | sports.yahoo.com | Brittney Griner released in U.S.-Russia prisoner swap | https://sports.yahoo.com/brittney-griner-released-u-russia-162443854.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/brittney-griner-released-u-russia-162443854.html?src=rss |
At the end of almost two minutes of acknowledgements, thank yous and promises to continue advocating, Cherelle Griner touched her hand to her chest and said, "I'm gonna smile right now."
That smile was wide and bright, one of those that pushes your cheeks up so high they squinch your eyes.
In that moment, her joy and her relief were so palpable they came through the screen, warm and so welcomed.
Cherelle's wife, WNBA star Brittney Griner, was headed home to the United States after 294 days as a political prisoner in Russia, the last several weeks of which were spent at a penal colony over 200 miles outside Moscow.
For so many, Thursday was a day to rejoice. To celebrate. To exhale.
BG is free.
Cherelle Griner, wife of WNBA star Brittney Griner, speaks after President Joe Biden announced Brittney Griner's release in a prisoner swap with Russia on Thursday, Dec. 8, 2022, at the White House. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
Her fearless sisters in the WNBA, her brothers in the NBA, former President Barack Obama, her friend and Olympic coach Dawn Staley — in many corners of social media there was joy at the news. It was unexpected for many; Griner was in Vladimir Putin's Russia and being patient when someone you love is imprisoned in a country that has challenging relations with the United States is nearly impossible.
In the early weeks, there was a belief that not saying anything in the media was the right path. Then, once the United States classified her as "wrongfully detained," keeping her name in headlines was the way to go. There were reports trying to explain why Griner's trial played out the way it did, that by pleading guilty and being sentenced then going through the appeals process, as scripted as the result was, would help clear the path toward negotiating her release. It was all illuminating, though not really comforting, especially for those who had no real understanding of how these situations go.
Despite all of that, when Griner was given an excessive-even-by-Russian-standards nine-year sentence for possessing vape cartridges with less than a gram of cannabis oil — a standard paper clip weighs more — and was transported to a remote prison camp in early November, it was impossible to know if she'd serve the entire nine-year sentence there. There was a feeling of helplessness.
But on Thursday just after 8 a.m. on the East Coast came the first report that she'd been freed. A few minutes later, it was made official by President Biden's Twitter account: "Moments ago I spoke to Brittney Griner. She is safe. She is on a plane. She is on her way home."
Griner was wrongfully detained for nearly 10 months, and we may never know the full extent of what she endured while there. A 6-foot-9, Black, queer woman was held captive in a country that recently expanded anti-LGTBQ laws and has a judicial system where virtually every defendant is found guilty, regardless of intent, prior history or evidence.
Thinking often about how scared and alone Griner must have felt, the desperation her wife, family and so many who love her must have felt, was heartbreaking.
Knowing the American government had brokered a deal to bring her home and seeing Cherelle Griner and President Biden on Thursday morning was everything but.
We don't know yet what Griner's physical and mental state are. She has been through an incomprehensible ordeal, and will need time to heal and recover. But the best news is that process can start now.
The joy has certainly been tempered by the sobering fact that Russia was not willing to send retired U.S. Marine Paul Whelan back to the U.S. with Griner in exchange for convicted arms dealer Viktor Bout, which was reportedly the trade the Biden administration was trying to make. But as Whelan's family acknowledged, once it became clear that the only deal to which Russia would agree was Griner for Bout or no deal at all, the administration made the right call: One American home was certainly better than none.
It has also been tempered by the torrent of racist and bigoted hatred for Griner by those whose tweets indicate they'd rather she'd been left in that penal colony if Whelan wasn't going to be freed as well. Or just left there, period.
That is to analyze another day, when the spirit is willing to deal with that anger.
But for now, there is only space for joy.
For the strength and persistence of WNBA players, who have stepped up time and again, though no more fiercely than for their own. They would not let anyone forget their beloved teammate and friend, and did everything they could to help get her home.
For the love shown to Brittney and Cherelle and their families during a fraught and uncertain time.
For the way so many kept Griner's name uplifted, from the WNBA naming her an honorary starter for the 2022 All-Star Game, to Megan Rapinoe having "BG" sewn onto the lapel of the suit she wore to accept her Presidential Medal of Freedom, to Steph Curry using his moment at the Golden State Warriors' ring ceremony to say BG's name, to Staley and others tweeting about her plight daily.
The memory of Cherelle Griner's smile at a White House lectern Thursday morning is everything. The joy is real. The relief is substantial.
A "We Are BG 42" mural supporting Brittney Griner is seen at the Footprint Center in Phoenix. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) | 2022-12-09T12:37:14Z | sports.yahoo.com | Brittney Griner's freedom from Russian custody brings happy ending to long, terrifying ordeal | https://sports.yahoo.com/brittney-griners-freedom-from-russian-custody-brings-happy-ending-to-long-terrifying-ordeal-014337713.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/brittney-griners-freedom-from-russian-custody-brings-happy-ending-to-long-terrifying-ordeal-014337713.html?src=rss |
STORY: Speaking to reporters in a Zoom press conference, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert said that the entire league was relieved.
“I can't tell you… what this means to, I think, the whole WNBA community to have her home safely,” Engelbert said.
Griner would be given medical support but should be given time to reconnect with her family, Englebert said.
The WNBA commissioner said other players in the league were eager to reunite with Griner.
“What they want to do is what we'll try to broker,” she said. “But… let's give Brittney some space and her family. It's been a long ordeal, horrible ordeal.”
Person of the Year has always been an occasion to think about the year through the lens of the people who helped shape it | 2022-12-09T12:37:40Z | sports.yahoo.com | 'I got very choked up' -WNBA commissioner on Griner's release | https://sports.yahoo.com/got-very-choked-wnba-commissioner-194152053.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/got-very-choked-wnba-commissioner-194152053.html?src=rss |
An off-duty FBI agent fatally shot a man after a dispute inside a bustling Washington, D.C., transit station Wednesday evening, police said.
WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Paul Whelan, an ex-U.S. Marine detained in Russia, expressed dismay on Thursday that more had not been done to secure his release and urged President Joe Biden to act fast following a prisoner swap that freed U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner. Griner was released in exchange for arms dealer Viktor Bout, a transaction that may leave the United States with little leverage to negotiate for Whelan, who is serving 16 years on espionage charges which he denies. "I would say that if a message could go to President Biden, that this is a precarious situation that needs to be resolved quickly."
Mortgage rates are slipping but are still high. The 30-year fixed rate mortgage averaged 3.1% this time last year.
Dr. Richard Stoll, a professor from Rice University who specializes in International Relations, explains how prisoner swaps can work between countries in the wake of Brittney Griner being released from Russia in a prisoner swap with notorious Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout.
The White House on Thursday disclosed additional details about how President Joe Biden and administration officials were able to secure WNBA star Brittney Griner's release and return from Russia. White House spokesperson John Kirby told reporters that the deal "really came to fruition in the last week or so." Biden made the call to go ahead with the swap "last week," he said. | 2022-12-09T12:38:05Z | sports.yahoo.com | Lawmakers react to Brittney Griner prisoner swap, more documents found in Trump's possession | https://sports.yahoo.com/lawmakers-react-brittney-griner-prisoner-152500074.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/lawmakers-react-brittney-griner-prisoner-152500074.html?src=rss |
CAMDEN, N.J.–The world received some great news on Thursday when they received word that WNBA star Brittney Griner would be released from a Russian prison after being detained for 294 days for drug smuggling charges at a Moscow airport.
Despite her testimony that she had inadvertently packed the cannabis oil that was found in her luggage, she was sentenced to nine years in prison in early August and was moved to a penal colony in the Mordovia republic in mid-November after losing her appeal.
On Thursday, U.S. officials worked out a 1-for-1 prison swap for Griner as Viktor Bout will be sent to Russia in the deal.
The Philadelphia 76ers, as part of the basketball community, gave their reactions to Griner coming home:
“It was great to hear. I woke up this morning and I saw that and it was a smile to my face. Just because obviously her being in the WNBA and the basketball community and having that situation going on over there and a lot of us here praying for her and also sending well-wishes, there wasn’t much may of us could do and for her to be free and be able to come back home, I know her family’s super excited and happy, that made me feel good this morning waking up and hearing the news.”
Coach Doc Rivers
“Great news. Obviously, great news. I’m just excited. I’m happy. I want all Americans, not just Brittney, but we got people in other countries too who are hostages because they’re American. No other reason. They’re Americans so it was good that we can strike a deal. I don’t know the whole thing. I’m sure we probably let a criminal back out on the streets. I don’t know that, but it’s just great for Brittney. I can’t imagine what she’s gone through over this last year. I just hope she’s healthy, her mental health is strong, and she can get back and just reintegrate herself back into our country.”
Rookie guard TyTy Washington is back with the #Rockets after a stint with Houston’s NBA G League affiliate, and he could prove useful now that Kevin Porter Jr.’s status is in question. | 2022-12-09T12:38:18Z | sports.yahoo.com | Multiple Sixers react to WNBA star Brittney Griner coming home from Russia | https://sports.yahoo.com/multiple-sixers-react-wnba-star-181604576.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/multiple-sixers-react-wnba-star-181604576.html?src=rss |
U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner has been freed by Russia in a dramatic high-level prisoner exchange, with the U.S. releasing notorious Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout from custody. (Charlie Neibergall / Associated Press)
“Negotiations for the release of wrongful detainees are often very difficult, that’s just the reality… immediate results can feel unfair or arbitrary,” said White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, adding, “The president felt a moral obligation to bring Brittney home…we're not going to apologize for that.”
Carly Givens of Phoenix looks at a mural of Brittney Griner in Phoenix on Thursday, hours after it was announced Griner had been freed in a prisoner exchange with Russia. (Rick Scuteri / Associated Press)
"It has been a total team effort," WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert told reporters in discussing Griner's release. "We use that analogy in sports all the time. But we could not have done this without the NBA, without Brittney's agent, lawyers, the whole ecosystem around women's sports.”
That tempers, but does not diminish, the triumph in the homecoming of an American basketball player who, in the words of Biden, just hit the three-pointer of a lifetime. | 2022-12-09T12:38:43Z | sports.yahoo.com | Plaschke: An American is coming home. So why are so many Americans upset Brittney Griner is free? | https://sports.yahoo.com/plaschke-american-coming-home-why-002001789.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/plaschke-american-coming-home-why-002001789.html?src=rss |
There's a singular beautiful moment, which followed so many ugly, terrifying moments in the wrongful detention of Olympian and WNBA star Brittney Griner in Russia. Griner's wife, Cherelle, who tirelessly and heroically worked to free Brittney, was in the Oval Office on Thursday, sitting to the left of President Joe Biden, smiling and speaking on the phone to Brittney, who had been freed from a penal colony.
To Cherelle's left was Vice President Kamala Harris, and a few feet away was Antony Blinken, the secretary of state. It was a fitting moment for Cherelle, seated at the center of power, after using everything in her power to free her wife.
This scene was better than other moments we've witnessed with Brittney, which usually involved her being photographed in cages. Now she's free in large part because of Cherelle.
NEWS: Brittney Griner released from Russian prison as part of prisoner exchange for Viktor Bout
"Today my family is whole," she said at a news conference, flanked by Biden and Harris. "But as you all are aware, there are so many other families who are not whole. BG is not here to say this, but I will gladly speak on her behalf. BG and I will remain committed to the work of getting every American home, including Paul (Whelan), whose family is in our hearts today. ... As we celebrate BG being home we do understand that there are still people out here who are enduring what I endured the last nine months of missing, tremendously, their loved ones."
There are several heroes in this story but none bigger than Cherelle. Her relentlessness is why Griner was released. Her refusal to give up. Her pairing with other strong women, most of them strong Black women, especially from the WNBA, is why she's free.
She attended rallies for Brittney. She kept the media on its toes. When the public's attention spans wavered, she was there to remind us. She never let us forget the racism and homophobia Brittney was facing in Russia.
In many ways, this is a story about pure love, and fighting for your partner, but it's also about persistence, and Cherelle making sure no one ever forgot about Brittney.
“I just keep hearing that, you know, he has the power. She’s a political pawn," she said on the show. “So if they’re holding her because they want you to do something, then I want you to do it.”
“I was grateful for the call; you say she’s top priority, but I wanna see it. And I feel like to see it would be me seeing BG on U.S. soil,” she said. “At this point I don’t even know who I’m getting back when she comes back.”
That happened because of Cherelle constantly pushing the Biden administration.
“I remember asking her once, ‘Well, how do you play so well when you're hurting and exhausted like that?’" Cherelle said. “She told me: ‘Oh, that me? That me just goes, no matter what or how I feel, I get the job done.’
Now Brittney is home, and she is because Cherelle didn't rest. She moved many of us to not forget her wife, and that included moving the president of the United States.
The former WNBA star was traded for the ‘Merchant of Death’ arms dealer | 2022-12-09T12:38:50Z | sports.yahoo.com | The power of love: Why Cherelle Griner is the biggest hero in Brittney Griner's release | https://sports.yahoo.com/power-love-why-cherelle-griner-171604319.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/power-love-why-cherelle-griner-171604319.html?src=rss |
CATHY ENGELBERT: I'm grateful to the administration, the State Department. You know, we've known negotiations were intensifying and a solution was in sight. And I was personally emotional at today's events because you never know until the end. These are geopolitically complex times in the moment. And so I'm overjoyed that BG will be reunited with her parents. Her mom and dad, as a mom myself, I can't imagine the anguish they have been going through. And obviously, you saw Cherelle at the White House this morning as events unfolded. And let's not forget, BG's fellow WNBA players too. They advocated every day for her, and the whole women's basketball ecosystem.
And so yeah, so we're obviously going to respect the privacy of this very critical time in her coming back home. And obviously, I'd love to call her. I'd love to see her. We're going to give her the appropriate space and time for that, and then follow what Brittney and her family want to do about reengaging with the WNBA and our players. So I know our players are very anxious to reunite with Brittney as well.
So we'll follow the players' lead. We're a player-first league, and what they want to do is what we'll try to broker. But let's give Brittney some space and her family. It's been a long ordeal, horrible ordeal, and really look forward to her return and hearing her voice. And I always call her this gentle giant. Really look forward to reuniting myself with her. | 2022-12-09T12:39:34Z | sports.yahoo.com | WNBA commissioner on Brittney Griner’s release: We’ll give her space and time | https://sports.yahoo.com/wnba-commissioner-brittney-griner-release-205035117.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/wnba-commissioner-brittney-griner-release-205035117.html?src=rss |
Ben McAdoo: I’m a big fan of Geno Smith originally appeared on Pro Football Talk
Since the Texans decided to move on from Deshaun Watson before last season, they have had three different starting quarterbacks. Davis Mills has started 21 of the 29 games. He was benched for Kyle Allen the past two weeks, but Allen was worse than Mills. Allen went 46-of-78 for 416 yards, two touchdowns and four [more]
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) Lazar Stefanovic made six of Utah's 16 3-pointers, and the Utes scored the first 19 points of the game and cruised to a 99-58 rout of Jacksonville State on Thursday night for its fourth straight win. Stefanovic finished with 20 points. Branden Carlson added 19 points and Gabe Madsen had 16 for Utah (8-2), and the pair were a combined 7 of 11 from 3-point range.
Anthony Black was quiet offensively in his early games for Arkansas basketball. He found his stride and is now the Razorbacks' leading 3-point shooter. | 2022-12-09T12:57:46Z | sports.yahoo.com | Ben McAdoo: I’m a big fan of Geno Smith | https://sports.yahoo.com/ben-mcadoo-m-big-fan-114905745.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/ben-mcadoo-m-big-fan-114905745.html?src=rss |
Eagles-Giants player matchups to watch in Week 14 originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia
The Eagles (11-1) will travel to North Jersey to face the Giants (7-4-1) at MetLife Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
Giants’ rushing attack vs. Eagles’ run defense
The Giants obviously have a great running back in Saquon Barkley, who is probably going to win Comeback Player of the Year. In 12 games this season, Barkley has already rushed for 1,055 yards at a clip of 4.4 yards per carry. And he’s still doing big things as a receiver too with 40 receptions for 241 yards. He’s a huge part of the Giants’ offense.
But when it comes to the Giants’ run game, it’s about more than just Barkley. Quarterback Daniel Jones has been a huge threat on the ground too. He’s second on the team in rushing with 522 yards on 91 attempts (5.7 per attempt). He’s not quite the runner that Jalen Hurts is but he can pick up chunks and the Eagles have to be aware of that dynamic.
“Yeah, Brian Daboll and Mike Kafka know what they're doing,” Eagles DC Jonathan Gannon said. “Bobby Johnson is the O-line coach. I was with Bobby for a little bit and he knows what he's doing. They know how to use, to maximize their quarterback skill set in a way that makes it very challenging for the defense because it challenges your rules and your structures, and they find their match-ups, their one-on-one match-ups because of the quarterback skill set.
“So, we've got a big-time challenge ahead of us, and we've got to be on it. It's a game where you can't just line up and play your stuff, or you will get gashed. We've got a big-time challenge ahead of us.”
While the Eagles have to deal with Jalen Hurts in training camp, they haven’t really faced many running quarterbacks this year. In the one game they did, Kyler Murray ran 4 times for 42 yards in Week 5.
Darius Slayton vs. Eagles’ nickel cornerback
The Giants don’t have a very good group of receivers this season, but the best of the bunch has been Darius Slayton, who has 33/566/2 in 11 games. He’s been very consistent too, with at least 3 catches for 50+ yards in each of his six games. And he’s coming off one of his better games of the season against the Commanders with 6 for 90.
In his career, Slayton has more catches (20) and more yards (367) against the Eagles than any other team. Obviously, he’s played the Eagles a ton but he’s still done more damage against them than the Cowboys or Commanders in about the same amount of games. What makes Slayton so impressive is his deep threat ability. He’s averaging 17.2 yards per reception this year and is at 15.3 for his career. That’s big play ability and it’s rare out of the slot.
Recently, Slayton has been seeing much more time in the slot, likely a reaction to Sterling Shepard’s season-ending injury. Over the last four games since the bye week, Slayton has been working out of the slot a ton and he’s been playing much more in general.
Here’s a look at the percentage of his slot snaps before and after the bye, via PFF:
Before the bye: 17.7%
Since the bye: 39.4%
In this game, the Eagles will hope to have Avonte Maddox back from a hamstring injury that sent him to IR. Maddox is eligible to return this week after missing the minimum of four games and he’ll have a test immediately if he plays. If Maddox can’t go, then Josiah Scott will be dealing with Slayton.
Jalen Hurts vs. the blitz
Through 13 weeks of the season, the Giants’ defense has been one of the most aggressive in the NFL and they blitz at a higher rate than any other teams. Here’s a look at the top five, according to ProFootballReference:
Giants: 40.8%
Packers: 36.9%
Cardinals: 35.3%
Broncos: 32.7%
Steelers: 32.2%
(If you’re wondering, Gannon’s defense has a blitz rate of 21.9%, which puts them in the middle of the pack.)
“I think with anything you've always got to have a plan for those things,” offensive coordinator Shane Steichen said. “They're one of the highest blitz rates in the league, the Giants are, so we're working through that right now. We have to have answers for everything they do. This is a good defensive front, and we have to be ready.”
The good news is that the Eagles and specifically Jalen Hurts have shown huge growth against the blitz this season. We saw how much blitzing hurt the Eagles last year, especially in the playoff game, but as time has gone on, they’ve created more answers and Hurts looks way more comfortable when there’s extra pressure.
The most blitzing we’ve seen the Eagles deal with this season came from Arizona in Week 5. That Vance Joseph defense is very aggressive. The Eagles’ biggest answer in that game to deal with it was going heavy screen. They could do that again but it appears that since then they’ve found other answers to the blitz.
Here’s a look at Hurts’ numbers against the blitz over the last two seasons, according to ProFootballFocus:
2022: 62.6%, 891 yards, 7 TDs, 1 INT; PFF grade of 76.1
2021: 55.6%, 1,214 yards, 9 TDs, 4 INTs; PFF grade of 64.7
“He's been awesome,” Steichen said. “The more you see, the more you play, the more experiences you have, your accelerated vision is going to pick up, and that's what he's been doing. It's a credit to him and his preparation and the film study that he puts in getting ready for those things each and every week.”
Eagles iOL vs. Dexter Lawrence
The Eagles will have their hands full on Sunday as they face one of the best defensive tackles in the NFL. Former first-round pick Dexter Lawrence hasn’t made a Pro Bowl in his first three years in the NFL but that’s about to change in 2022. Heck, he’s playing at an All-Pro level.
Lawrence, 25, has started all 12 games for the Giants this season and has already tied his career high in tackles with 54 and he’s already set career marks with sacks (6) and QB hits (20). He’s also batted down 2 passes, forced a fumble and has 5 tackles for loss. Lawrence is ranked as the second-best interior defensive lineman in the NFL by PFF. He’s second behind Kansas City’s Chris Jones and just ahead of future Hall of Famer Aaron Donald.
Lawrence plays a couple different positions on the interior of that line and lines up on both sides of the center and is even sometimes head up on the center. But keep a very close eye when Lawrence is matched up against Eagles left guard Landon Dickerson. While Dickerson has been solid for a lot of the season, he has been dealing with some sort of lingering injury that has forced him to miss snaps recently in games. If he’s not 100%, Lawrence is going to give Dickerson all he can handle. And if Dickerson has to leave the game at any point, it’ll be Andre Dillard in there at a relatively new position for him.
Lawrence isn’t the only good player on that line either. We’ll see if Leonard Williams will be able to play as he deals with a neck injury but he’s obviously a talented player. The Giants also have a couple good edge rushers in rookie Kayvan Thibodeaux and Azeez Ojulari, but the Eagles have a great pair of tackles. It’s important to remember that in addition to a pretty good line, the Giants will bring a ton more pressure.
Eagles red zone offense vs. Giants red zone defense
The Giants rank 23rd in overall defense by yards but are 12th in the NFL in points allowed. So … what’s going on here?
Well, the simple answer is that they’re very good when the field shrinks in the red zone. The Giants have the NFL’s No. 5-ranked red zone defense, allowing touchdowns on 48.9% of opponents’ trips inside the 20.
On the flip side, the Eagles have the NFL’s No. 2 ranked red zone offense, scoring touchdowns on 73.8% of their drives inside their opponent’s 20-yard line. A couple weeks ago, Nick Sirianni raved about the most tedious weekly meeting: The deep red zone meeting, which can last several hours on Wednesdays. The Eagles put in the work to be one of the NFL’s best red zone offenses.
So this is a very good matchup between two strengths of these respected teams and could end up deciding the outcome if it ends up being a typical hard-nosed NFC East battle in December.
Eagles receivers vs. banged-up corners
The Giants no longer have James Bradberry, who was released in May, signed with the Eagles and has been playing at a Pro Bowl level. Now their top cornerback Adoree’ Jackson has missed a couple games with a knee injury and is in danger of missing this week again. And, remember, starter Aaron Robinson has been on IR since early in the season.
In addition to those injuries, a couple other recent cornerback starters, Nick McCloud (hamstring) and Darnay Holmes (shoulder), are banged up and were limited to start the week of practice. The Giants’ only healthy starting cornerback is Fabian Moreau, who ranks as the 61st best cornerback in the league, according to PFF.
So as long as the Eagles have the right answers for the blitz, A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith and Quez Watkins should be able to win their 1-on-1s. | 2022-12-09T12:58:16Z | sports.yahoo.com | Eagles-Giants player matchups to watch in Week 14 | https://sports.yahoo.com/eagles-giants-player-matchups-watch-120000750.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/eagles-giants-player-matchups-watch-120000750.html?src=rss |
The Cincinnati Bengals enter Week 14 against the Cleveland Browns favored at home.
It would appear the experts in charge of making picks each week agree with oddsmakers quite a bit on this front.
Over at NFL Pick Watch, which aggregates the picks of 80-plus experts each week, 92 percent of the experts polled take the Bengals in the head-to-head matchup. That’s by far one of the highest percentages of the week.
That number does dip to 67 percent against the spread, but it’s not unreasonable for some pickers to think the Browns might be able to cover within four or five points.
In fact, the Browns have had the Bengals’ number during the Zac Taylor era (Bengals are 1-6), so it’s really not unreasonable to think the 92 percent is a bit high, too.
But if there’s a time the Bengals will finally get over their Browns hump, it’s probably Week 14 now that they’ve won four in a row, the offensive line is playing well, the defense remains stout and Joe Burrow looks like an MVP contender, if not favorite. | 2022-12-09T12:58:22Z | sports.yahoo.com | Here’s how experts pick Browns vs. Bengals in Week 14 | https://sports.yahoo.com/experts-pick-browns-vs-bengals-115555091.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/experts-pick-browns-vs-bengals-115555091.html?src=rss |
The rumors of a potential New York Giants-Odell Beckham Jr. reunion have been a rollercoaster for months now. When it came down to the final teams, the Giants were one of the few that Beckham visited last week.
The Beckham saga took another turn last week when it was reported that an NFL executive had concerns over Beckham’s health. OBJ is, of course, coming off a torn ACL in the Super Bowl.
As Beckham’s decision lingers, it’s leaving Giants fans at the edge of their seat.
OBJ was a guest on Thursday Night Football’s “The Shop” and he shared his thoughts on unfinished business between he and Saquon Barkley.
There were big hopes for the Barkley/Beckham combo but it was short-lived after the Giants traded OBJ to the Cleveland Browns.
Beckham claimed he wanted a multi-year deal with whatever team he ends up signing with, which could play into the Giants’ favor given their needs at wide receiver and the lack of talented expected to be available in free agency. Buffalo and Dallas, by contrast, are in win-now mode.
Beckham may have also hinted at waiting until the postseason to join a team.
For now, the rollercoaster continues. Beckham has yet to make a decision on his future and the Giants play on. | 2022-12-09T12:58:35Z | sports.yahoo.com | Odell Beckham’s comment about Saquon Barkley adds fuel to rumor fire | https://sports.yahoo.com/odell-beckham-saquon-barkley-adds-115537298.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/odell-beckham-saquon-barkley-adds-115537298.html?src=rss |
Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel was named the 2022 American Football Coaches Association’s Region 2 Coach of the Year.
Heupel guided the Vols to a 10-2 (6-2 SEC) regular-season record and a berth in the Capital One Orange Bowl. Tennessee defeated Florida, LSU and Alabama in 2022.
Tennessee’s last Orange Bowl appearance took place in 1998, losing to Nebraska, 42-17. The contest between the Vols and Cornhuskers was Peyton Manning’s final game for the Vols. | 2022-12-09T13:19:42Z | sports.yahoo.com | Josh Heupel named AFCA Coach of the Year | https://sports.yahoo.com/josh-heupel-named-afca-coach-121158032.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/josh-heupel-named-afca-coach-121158032.html?src=rss |
Jamel Howard is a 2023 6-foot-3, 320-pound, three-star, defensive lineman from Chicago where he plays for Marist High School. The RedHawks finished the 2022 season 7-4 with a loss to York in the second round of the playoffs. Howard is currently crystal-balled to Michigan and Wisconsin.
Film Analysis: Howard is a bully at defensive tackle for the RedHawks. He dominates the trenches and disposes of almost every guard that tries to stop him. He would fit in perfectly in LSU’s defense as he would demand a double-team against the running game. With the Tigers losing two defensive linemen commits recently, they could use some more depth.
Crystal balled to Michigan and Wisconsin
Wisconsin is a 99% favorite per On3
Slovakia has approved a new package of security assistance to Ukraine, largely focused on ammunition of various kinds and winter gear, Slovak Foreign Minister Rastislav Káčer said at a press briefing on Dec. 08.
Humor columnist Celia Rivenbark writes about South Carolina becoming the first state to hold its presidential primary. | 2022-12-09T13:20:01Z | sports.yahoo.com | LSU offers three-star defensive lineman from Chicago | https://sports.yahoo.com/lsu-offers-three-star-defensive-120000275.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/lsu-offers-three-star-defensive-120000275.html?src=rss |
It is the end of an era and the changing of the guard at one of the most storied and successful high school football programs in the country, a central locus of elite talent and a source of the foremost football recruits in the United States.
After 34 years as the head coach at Mater Dei, Bruce Rollinson is stepping away from the top high school football program in America.
No one was sure when Mater Dei High School (Santa Ana, Calif.) head coach Bruce Rollinson was going to step away from coaching. Most knew it would be soon, and the high school football world got its answer a few weeks ago when the program’s football account tweeted a message from Rollinson.
“I have recently decided that this year will be my last year as head coach of Mater Dei football. After playing at Mater Dei more than 50 years ago, 47 years coaching at Mater Dei and 34 years as the head coach, making this decision at this time with the entire starting lineup returning next year, should make it easier for the next coach and Mater Dei to continue our winning tradition.”
Rock & Roll, Baby ❤️🤍
|/ pic.twitter.com/G03dFYEO3u
— Mater Dei Football (@MDFootball) November 11, 2022
Rollinson finished his 34th year as head coach, going 341-87-2, leading Mater Dei to three CIF Open Division state titles (2017, 2018, 2021). The school has finished ranked in the MaxPreps Top 25 every year since 2016, excluding 2020 when football was moved to the spring and not included in the national rankings.
Mater Dei has earned six high school national championships under Rollinson’s leadership, and fell one win short of a seventh this season. The Monarchs were ranked No. 1 in the MaxPreps Top 25 as they headed into the CIF Southern Section final. They lost to St. John Bosco, 24-222. The program won 28 games in a row under Rollinson, a streak snapped by Bosco in the championship game.
During his long and successful tenure at Mater Dei, Rollinson has coached multiple Heisman Trophy-winning quarterbacks: former USC QB Matt Leinart and current Alabama QB Bryce Young.
The program has produced hundreds of Division I college football players during his time as head coach, including current Detroit Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Trent McDuffie, and former USC QB Matt Barkley.
We wanted to take a look at the production of former USC Trojans over his 34 years as head coach at Mater Dei. Here’s a look at the top 10 players coached by Bruce Rollinson who played at USC.
10. Khaled Holmes
As a senior offensive lineman at Mater Dei HS in Santa Ana, he was named a Prep Star All American. Trojan teammates Matt Barkley, Victor Blackwell and Max Wittek also prepped at Mater Dei in 2007.
Holmes started his three season as a Trojan at offensive line and in 2012 he was an Academic All-American candidate. After the regular season was named one of six finalists for the Remington Trophy, given annually to college football’s top center.
In the 2013 NFL Draft Holmes was taken in the fourth round, with the 121st overall pick by the Indianapolis Colts.
9. Matt Grootegoed
He attended Mater Dei HS with former Heisman Trophy winner Matt Leinart. The Mater Dei Monarchs team won three (CIF) championships while he was a member of the defense in the late 90’s under Bruce Rollinson.
During his 1999 senior season, he made 138 tackles, six interceptions (including two touchdown returns), seven tackles for losses and two forced fumbles as a free safety, and ran for 945 yards on 116 carries with fourteen touchdowns as a running back.
“Groots” was selected for the USA Today All-USA first-team, Parade All-American, Super Prep All-American, Prep Star All-American, ESPN All-American, Cal-Hi Sports All-State first-team, All-CIF Southern Section first-team.
While Grootegoed played for the Trojans, the team won three straight Pac-10 championships (2002, 2003, 2004) and two consecutive Associated Press (AP) national championships in 2003 and 2004. He was a second-team All-Pac-10 selection in 2003. Following his senior season in 2004, he was a finalist for the Butkus Award, and was recognized as a first-team All-Pac-10 selection and a consensus first-team All-American.
Grootegoed was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers following the 2005 NFL Draft eventually released to their practice squad, and was later picked up by the Detroit Lions. Grootegoed played for the Lions in the final three games of their 2005 season.
8. Lenny Vandermade
Vandermade made the Cal-Hi Sports All-State Sophomore, Junior and Senior first-team and Mater Dei went 14-0, won the CIF Division I title and was named national champion by USA Today his senior season.
He earned at least a 90% blocking grade in all of his games as a junior and senior. He also posted 78 career tackles (7 were sacks). A 3-year starter, Mater Dei went 40-2 during that time. Fellow Trojans Matt Grootegoed, Matt Leinart and Will Collins also prepped at Mater Dei during that time.
He was a 4-year (2000-03) starter on the offensive line (guard, center) at USC, including on the Trojans’ 2003 national championship team. In 2000, he was a Freshman All-American first teamer.
He spent 2004 on the practice squad with the Pittsburgh Steelers and was on the Steeler’s injured reserve in 2005. He played for the Steelers’ NFL Europe affiliate, Hamburg Sea Devils, in 2005.
7. Raleek Brown
Raleek Brown had 143 carries for 1,123 yards (7.9 avg) with 15 TDs and caught 12 passes for 107 yards (8.9 avg) as a senior running back at Mater Dei High in Santa Ana (Calif.). Mater Dei went 12-0 and won the 2021 national, state Open Division and CIF Southern Section Division I titles.
So far as a true freshman at USC, Brown has 4 touchdowns on 48 touches and 318 all purpose yards in back duty behind Travis Dye and Austin Jones.
6. Domani Jackson
Despite missing most of his senior season as a cornerback at Mater Dei High in Santa Ana (Calif.) due to a knee injury suffered in the season opener Domani Jackson was one of the most dominate members of Mater Dei’s run from 2018-2021.
Jackson was a five star cornerback at Mater Dei and recorded 75 career tackles, 4 tackles, and 9 deflections.
Most times quarterback just didn’t throw his way, the 6’1 192 defensive back was a lock down corner who shut down most top WR every week.
Jackson also ran track at Mater Dei and tied the state record in the 100 meters (first set in 1985) with a 10.25 clocking while winning the unofficial 2021 California state meet (it was the second fastest time in the nation in 2021); he also anchored the 400-meter relay team to a second place finish. He won the 2021 CIF Division 2 100 meters title in 10.48 and anchored the runner-up 400-meter relay squad.
Jackson, who enrolled at USC in the spring of 2022 after graduating a semester early from high school, will compete for playing time at defensive back as a true freshman in 2022.
5. Amon Ra-St. Brown
St. Brown attended Servite in Anaheim, California as a freshman before transferring to Mater Dei to play for coach Rollinson. In his breakout senior season in 2017, he had 72 receptions for 1,320 yards and 20 touchdowns. A five-star recruit, St. Brown committed to USC to play college football. He played with future USC teammates JT. Daniels and Bru McCoy at Mater Dei.
In three years as a starter at USC St. Brown had 178 receptions for 2,270 yards and 16 touchdowns.
St. Brown was drafted in the fourth round, 112th overall, by the Detroit Lions in the 2021 NFL Draft.
4. Bru McCoy
Bru McCoy logged in 152 receptions, 2,605 receiving yards and 35 touchdowns on offense. McCoy was the top wide out in the nation and the No.12 player in his class according to 247Sports Composite for the Class of 2019.
McCoy also started at outside linebacker and was one of the best defensive players in the state of California. Listed as an athlete (ATH) Bru recorded 47 tackles and 9 sacks in his three year career as well at Mater Dei.
In his career McCoy was named 2018 Maxwell Football Club Offensive National High School Player of the Year, Max Preps National Player of the Year, USA Today All-USA first team, PrepStar Dream Team, Max Preps All-American first team in 2017 and 2018.
Bru McCoy caught 21 passes for 236 yards and two touchdowns before transferring to Tennessee in 2022.
3. J.T Daniels
Coached by Bruce Rollinson, J.T Daniels graduated a full year early in order to enroll at USC with head coach Clay Helton
In three seasons at Mater Dei, he completed 751 of 1,101 passes (68.2%) for 12,014 yards with 152 TD’s winning the 2017 Gatorade National Player of the Year, Max Preps National Player of the Year, National High School Coaches Association Player of the Year and USA Today Player of The Year.
Daniels started 12 games at USC but battled a torn acl and transffered out to UGA in the spring after two years in a Trojan uniform.
JT helped lead the Bulldogs to an 15-2 record, including a Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl win over Cincinnati in his two years at Georgia. Daniels passed for 2,031 yards and 17 TDs before transferring again to West Virginia.
2. Matt Barkley
In 2005, Matt Barkley became the first freshman quarterback to start at Mater Dei since Todd Marinovich.
In four season as Mater Dei’s quarterback Barkley threw for 8,679 passing yards, 67 touchdowns completing 63 percent of his passes with nine interceptions.
Barkley was named 2007 football Gatorade National Player of The Year, California state player of the year and then the 2007 Gatorade national male athlete of the year, becoming the first non-senior to win three awards.
Barkley also won the 2007 Glenn Davis Award, given to the best high school football player in Southern California, and the inaugural Joe Montana Award as the nation’s top high school quarterback.
At USC as a four year starter Barkley battled sanctions from the previous year and injuries but still managed to have a top five QB career.
Barkley passed for 12,327 passing yards, 63.8 completion %, 116 touchdowns and 48 interceptions.
The Philadelphia Eagles selected Matt Barkley in the fourth round with the 98th overall pick of the 2013 NFL Draft.
Barkley is still currently in the NFL on his second stint with the Buffalo Bills.
1. Matt Leinart
The “Golden Boy” Matthew Stephen Leinart” is with out a doubt the best USC quarterback ever and the greatest player to ever play at Mater Dei til’ this day.
Leinart’s record at USC was 37-2, making him the winningest player in the history of the program.
Leinart led USC during one of the program’s greatest eras. He took the Trojans to an AP national title in 2003, a BCS championship in 2004 and an appearance in the national championship in 2005.
As a junior, he led his team to a California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) Division I co-championship and was named the Serra League’s Offensive Most Valuable Player. Wearing number 7, he was chosen as the Gatorade California high school football player of the year.
The 2004 Heisman Trophy winner ranks second on the school’s all-time passing list with 10,963 yards and tops the all-time touchdown lists with 99.
In 2005, Leinart had the most productive offensive season of any USC player in school history when he threw for 3,851 yards and accounted for 38 total touchdowns.
His list of accomplishments, which include being named to the Pac-10 first team three times and winning the Walter Camp Award (best player), Johnny Unitas Award (top senior quarterback) and Heisman Trophy and was on the ballot three years in a row.
Selected 10th overall by the Arizona Cardinals in the 2006 NFL Draft. Leinart primarily served as Kurt Warner’s backup for four seasons. He spent his final three seasons in a backup role for the Houston Texans and Oakland Radiers. Leinart was inducted to the College Football Hall of Fame in 2017. | 2022-12-09T13:20:15Z | sports.yahoo.com | Top 10 USC players coached by Mater Dei legend Bruce Rollinson | https://sports.yahoo.com/top-10-usc-players-coached-112436839.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/top-10-usc-players-coached-112436839.html?src=rss |
By now you’ve probably heard that Baker Mayfield wasn’t on the Rams very long before leading his new team to a dramatic win over the Raiders on Thursday night. He got to L.A. on Tuesday night and was a hero some 50 hours later.
“Yeah, we spent a lot of – there’s a lot of concept carry over with things that he’s done and you should see his notebook and how quickly he got himself up to speed,” McVay said. “But it was one practice. We had two 10-play periods, whatever it would be on a Friday, on Wednesday, so yesterday. Made some throws and was able to do some different things. I just can’t say enough about how impressed I am with just the command, the comfort, even just the operation. (Baker) being able to just call the plays within the 40-second play clock or even 25 seconds out of a clock stoppage or it. I’m still kind of like, what the hell’s going on right now?”
Mayfield told Amazon’s postgame show that he’s glad the Rams were able to practice their two-minute situation with him a little bit before the game because that’s what it all came down to. He had to go 98 yards in 1:45 with no timeouts for the win and somehow pulled it off.
Fortunately for Mayfield, he now has 11 days before his next game, another prime-time battle on Monday Night Football with Aaron Rodgers and the Packers. | 2022-12-09T14:29:08Z | sports.yahoo.com | Baker Mayfield got a whole 20 plays of practice in before leading Rams over Raiders | https://sports.yahoo.com/baker-mayfield-got-whole-20-135838844.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/baker-mayfield-got-whole-20-135838844.html?src=rss |
Following his two-interception performance against the Baltimore Ravens last week, Denver Broncos safety Justin Simmons has now totaled 24 interceptions in his career.
After grabbing interception No. 24 on Sunday, Simmons is now tied with Steve Atwater for ninth place on the team’s all-time interceptions list. Simmons was asked about tying Atwater’s total during his media availability on Wednesday.
“That’s pretty cool,” Simmons said. “I didn’t notice that. It means a lot. I think anytime you’re in the same sentence as a hall of famer like Steve, there is obviously high praise there. That’s really cool. I know I’ve always shared every time I’ve talked about Steve, but he’s meant so much to me and my growth, not only as a player, but just as a man, as a professional, as a husband.
“Just the little tidbits he gives me every time we’re walking off the field, or I see him after the game — after a win, or even after loss. He’s been such a pillar in my life since I’ve stepped in here and I got drafted. I can’t be more thankful for him. Just to be in the same realm when we are talking about interceptions and obviously tying him with that — it’s just a tremendous blessing. That’s exactly what it is.”
Simmons needs two more interceptions to tie former cornerback Louis Wright for eighth place on the team’s all-time list. Simmons has recorded three interceptions so far this year and he totaled at least four interceptions in each of the three years leading up to the 2022 season. | 2022-12-09T14:29:12Z | sports.yahoo.com | Broncos safety Justin Simmons thankful for Steve Atwater’s mentorship | https://sports.yahoo.com/broncos-safety-justin-simmons-thankful-140014611.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/broncos-safety-justin-simmons-thankful-140014611.html?src=rss |
The Kansas City Chiefs (9-2) will face the Denver Broncos (3-9) in Week 14 of the 2022 NFL season at Empower Field at Mile High Stadium in Denver, Colorado on Sunday, Dec. 4 at 3:05 p.m. CT. The game will be shown on CBS and in-market fans can stream the game on Fubo.TV (free 7-day trial).
For the first time this season, the Chiefs didn’t draw a No. 1 broadcast crew. In the broadcast booth and on the sidelines, Chiefs Kingdom will get Ian Eagle, Charles Davis and Evan Washburn on the call. It’s the first time since Week 14 last season that this group called a game for Kansas City.
For most of the season, the Chiefs have achieved near-national broadcasts every week, but things are different against the Broncos in Week 14. The bulk of the midwest, southwest and northwestern United States will get this week’s broadcast, but it’s not quite as plentiful as it has been in previous weeks. It’s not a big surprise given the quality of their opponent. They’re also competing with a ton of AFC divisional grudge matches with Jets-Bills, Ravens-Steelers, Bengals-Browns and Jaguars-Titans on CBS. | 2022-12-09T14:29:27Z | sports.yahoo.com | Chiefs vs. Broncos broadcast map: Will you be able to watch on TV? | https://sports.yahoo.com/chiefs-vs-broncos-broadcast-map-124554922.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/chiefs-vs-broncos-broadcast-map-124554922.html?src=rss |
The New York Giants (7-4-1) will host the Philadelphia Eagles (11-1) at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Sunday afternoon.
Opening the week, the Giants were listed as 6.5-point home underdogs and that spread has only worsened throughout the week. As of this writing, Big Blue is +7.
Frankly, we’re surprised anyone picked the Giants to win, so kudos to Laura Rutledge for going out on a ledge with her prediction. Ba dum tis. We’ll be here all week, folks.
The range in score predictions is also interesting. Some believe it will be a close game, while others are expecting a total blowout. It speaks to the unpredictable nature of the Giants this season.
Experts around the league are also heavily favoring the Eagles in this one. 93% of all NFL insiders have Philadelphia winning, according to NFL Pickswatch. Fans are even more one-sided with 95% predicting an Eagles victory.
Three key Cowboys defenders were back at work Thursday; the Texans are down 2 WRs; the Dallas/Houston rivalry trophy has gone missing. | From @ToddBrock24f7 | 2022-12-09T14:29:46Z | sports.yahoo.com | Giants vs. Eagles: NFL experts make Week 14 picks | https://sports.yahoo.com/giants-vs-eagles-nfl-experts-125505651.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/giants-vs-eagles-nfl-experts-125505651.html?src=rss |
Trevor Lawrence’s chances of playing Sunday in a divisional matchup against the Tennessee Titans are in question after the Jacksonville Jaguars’ second-year quarterback missed practices both Wednesday and Thursday.
Earlier this week, Lawrence said he’ll play Sunday if he can, but he’s at the mercy of the pace that his toe heals from a sprain suffered in a Week 13 loss to the Detroit Lions. On Thursday, offensive coordinator Press Taylor said that Lawrence’s availability this weekend won’t have anything to do with pain tolerance.
“There’s never been a question of his toughness and his availability for the team, I don’t think,” Taylor said of Lawrence. “I think everybody feels very confident that if Trevor is going to play if Trevor has the ability to. There’s times when it’s our decision to protect players from themselves. Same thing with Travis [Etienne]. There was a possibility of Travis playing against Baltimore, and we decided to pull the plug on that just to protect him from himself.”
Etienne had only two touches in a Week 12 game against the Baltimore Ravens before suffering a foot injury and sitting out the rest of the day. After the game, Jaguars coach Doug Pederson told reporters that Etienne was cleared to return, but the team kept him out of action out of an abundance of caution.
Last week, the Jaguars followed a similar playbook when they decided to designate Andre Cisco as inactive, despite Pederson telling reporters a day later that “he was good” and kept out just to be safe.
The Jaguars will likely try to avoid doing the same with Lawrence if they can. While the coaching staff (and Lawrence even) have expressed confidence in backup C.J. Beathard, the reality is that the team’s chances at beating the Titans would be significantly hurt if Lawrence isn’t able to play.
Through 12 games this season, Lawrence has 17 touchdowns with six interceptions and a 92.8 passer rating, 12th best in the NFL among starting quarterbacks. Lawrence hasn’t missed a game yet in his NFL career.
The Jacksonville Jaguars are looking to get back on track defensively against the Tennessee Titans this week after a poor showing against Detroit. | 2022-12-09T14:29:52Z | sports.yahoo.com | Jaguars OC Press Taylor: Trevor Lawrence’s toughness is ‘no question’ | https://sports.yahoo.com/jaguars-oc-press-taylor-trevor-124523235.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/jaguars-oc-press-taylor-trevor-124523235.html?src=rss |
Shortly after the New York Giants and Washington Commanders played to a tie in Week 13, linebacker Tae Crowder hit Twitter with a curious tweet.
“Free me,” he wrote.
It stemmed from apparent frustration over his lacking role. The former starting inside linebacker played zero defensive snaps in the tie and has seen his role decrease significantly in recent weeks.
“I’m more of a TikTok guy,” defensive coordinator Wink Martindale said when asked about Crowder’s tweet. “TikTok has good golf tips on there, scare cam’s one of my favorite things to see, and a lot of comedians.
“It was taken care of internally, and like I said I’m not on Twitter, so I didn’t really see it.”
After the tweet created a stir, Crowder apologized to his coaches and teammates following a private meeting with head coach Brian Daboll.
“I really wasn’t thinking much of it,” Crowder told the New York Post. “I’ve seen a lot of fans talking about a release or whatever, but I’m all for my team. I just want to do anything I can to help the team win.
“I apologized to all my teammates just because I never want to cause anything to the program. I never want to be that guy to be a distraction. All my teammates know I’m not that type of guy.”
Although Crowder offered an apology, he acknowledged a frustration with his diminished role.
“I’m a guy who loves to compete and I just haven’t been on the field like I used to be,” he added. “Once you can’t go out and help your team — whether you win or lose — it’s frustrating.”
Cornerback Rodarius Williams also expressed frustration with his role in Week 13 but it’s unclear if he also offered up an apology over his tweets. | 2022-12-09T14:29:59Z | sports.yahoo.com | Tae Crowder apologizes to Giants teammates, coaches for ‘free me’ tweet | https://sports.yahoo.com/tae-crowder-apologizes-giants-teammates-134626712.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/tae-crowder-apologizes-giants-teammates-134626712.html?src=rss |
Raptors guard Fred VanVleet had to address the elephant in the room on Wednesday. (Getty)
“Just trying to fight the algorithms, man.” he said exasperatedly. “I'm checking my page, and it's like all s**t that I don't follow.”
“So stupid me. Let's unfollow everybody and see if it helped. It didn't help. Somebody caught wind of that and said, oh, I unfollowed all my teammates. I unfollowed my mom too. They didn't care about that part.” Vanvleet said, chuckling.
“I know people are very interested in my personal life now, which is new for me. And I've got to be more aware of that. But I just take everything in stride. I'm a real person. And that was it, really. nothing more, nothing less.”
Fred VanVleet with a deep 3 vs the Los Angeles Lakers
Fred VanVleet (Toronto Raptors) with a deep 3 vs the Los Angeles Lakers, 12/07/2022
Game Recap: Raptors 126, Lakers 113
The Raptors defeated the Lakers, 126-113. Pascal Siakam recorded 25 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists for the Raptors, while Fred VanVleet (25 points, four rebounds, seven assists) and Scottie Barnes (13 points, 17 rebounds, four assists) added a combined 38 points in the victory. Russell Westbrook tallied 16 points, nine rebounds, and three assists for the Lakers in the losing effort. The Raptors improve to 13-12 on the season, while the Lakers fall to 10-14.
The Chicago White Sox were honored for their Amateur City Elite program at MLBs Winter Meetings on Wednesday.
Sharks have formed bad habits since days of Joe Pavelski, Joe Thornton era
It's been nearly four years of disaster for the Sharks, who still are in search of answers with their new core of players. | 2022-12-09T14:55:33Z | sports.yahoo.com | Raptors' VanVleet on why he unfollowed teammates on social media | https://sports.yahoo.com/nba-raptors-vanvleet-explains-why-he-unfollowed-toronto-teammates-instagram-twitter-173022444.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/nba-raptors-vanvleet-explains-why-he-unfollowed-toronto-teammates-instagram-twitter-173022444.html?src=rss |
SAN DIEGO -- There was a time, maybe four or five days ago, when the Mets did not want to exceed a $300 million payroll by much.
Then Cohen and the Mets watched their rivals spend. And spend. And spend. The National League East rival Phillies agreed to pay Trea Turner $300 million. The Yankees waved $360 million at Aaron Judge, who turned down more than $400 million from the Padres -- who moved on to sign Xander Bogaerts for $280 million.
Cohen might not have been pleased by this development, but he wasn’t about to allow the Mets to concede first and second place next year in their own division, either. So, a little after 8 p.m. ET on Thursday, the Mets sighed, said “screw it,” and offered Brandon Nimmo an eight-year, $162 million contract -- more years and dollars than most in the industry predicted Nimmo would receive, despite widespread interest in him.
Credit him for doing so. It’s surely a fun time to be a Mets fan -- and it could be even more fun when we’re talking about Ohtani this time next year.
The school announced the news on Thursday after students launched a petition.View Entire Post › | 2022-12-09T14:55:39Z | sports.yahoo.com | What’s next? Mets want Kodai Senga now, await Shohei Ohtani’s free agency in a year | https://sports.yahoo.com/next-mets-want-kodai-senga-061014325.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/next-mets-want-kodai-senga-061014325.html?src=rss |
Chase Elliott wins fifth straight Most Popular Driver Award
For the fifth year in a row, Chase Elliott is the man of the people as he is the winner of the 2022 National Motorsports Press Association (NMPA) Most Popular Driver Award in the NASCAR Cup Series.
The 2020 Cup champion becomes just the fifth driver to win the award five or more times in NASCAR‘s premier series, joining the likes of Richard Petty (8x), Bobby Allison (8x), Dale Earnhardt Jr. (15x) and Chase‘s father, Bill (16x).
It‘s the seventh time Elliott has been awarded the Most Popular Driver as he won the Xfinity honor twice.
“For me, obviously, I came into a very fortunate situation,” Elliott said after a moment of recognition on the NASCAR Awards stage as a member of this year’s Championship 4. “Dad had a great connection with the fans, and beyond him, I look at the connection as really an extension of his career and my uncles and my grandfather and just kind of the path and the work ethic that they had to be able to get to where they did and to achieve the goals they did.
“And I think a lot of people really connected with them because of their approach and how they went about things and they were a little different than the rest, and I think that was very easily recognizable to the fans. And for me, look, I get it, right? I completely understand that a lot of the folks that supported them and my family over the years have migrated to support me. I’m grateful for it, grateful for the other side of the fence as well, and grateful for the new fans that I feel like I’ve made along the way, too.”
RELATED: Elliott through the years | 2023 Cup Series schedule
Elliott also said that he enjoyed the tongue-in-check attack ads on social media from close friend Ryan Blaney, who ramped up the competition for the annual award.
“It was a complete surprise to me,” said Elliott, who denied that he eats his chicken wings with a fork and knife in some playful back-and-forth with Blaney during Thursday’s awards program. “I had no idea that he was doing anything, but I thought it was funny. I got a pretty good laugh out of it. The second one was my favorite one. I can’t remember what it was, but I think he put out three, whichever one was in the middle. I told him I was like, ‘all right, that was pretty good.’ So it was fun, but I gave him a hard time out there about it. And I don’t know, we might try to come up with something fun to get him back with, I’m sure at some point down the road. Now I know, it’s fair game.”
After a historic season with eight wins — matching Sam Ard‘s four-race consecutive victories record and owning one of the most colorful personalities in the sport — Noah Gragson won Most Popular Driver in the Xfinity Series. It‘s the first time he‘s earned the honor at the Xfinity level, beating out Justin Allgaier, who won the award the last three years.
Gragson won the Truck Series Most Popular Driver award in 2018.
Hailie Deegan took home this year‘s Most Popular Driver award in the Truck Series. It‘s the second time in a row she‘s earned the honor after becoming the first woman in the series to earn the award last season, along with being just the second woman all-time to win Most Popular Driver. | 2022-12-09T15:27:44Z | sports.yahoo.com | Chase Elliott wins fifth straight Most Popular Driver Award | https://sports.yahoo.com/chase-elliott-wins-fifth-straight-190221687.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/chase-elliott-wins-fifth-straight-190221687.html?src=rss |
Grala to race Xfinity full-time for Sam Hunt Racing in 2023, team expands to two cars
CONCORD, N.C. — Sam Hunt Racing and Kaz Grala have plenty in common. Both have been piecemealing seasons together, impressing with their potential but waiting for the right opportunities.
Their opportunities are here and happen to be one and the same.
Grala will pilot Sam Hunt Racing‘s No. 26 Toyota GR Supra full-time in the 2023 NASCAR Xfinity Series season, the team announced Thursday at Charlotte Motor Speedway, with Grala set to become the team‘s first full-time driver in its three-year history.
The program will also field the No. 24 Toyota full-time in 2023, anchored by driver Connor Mosack, who will pilot the car for 20 races beginning at Phoenix Raceway in March. This marks the first time the organization will field two cars full-time.
Kris Bowen, who crew chiefed the No. 02 Chevrolet at Our Motorsports in 2022, pivots to Sam Hunt Racing and will lead the No. 24 Toyota in 2023.
RELATED: 2023 Xfinity Series schedule | Nemechek full-time at JGR in 2023
Grala, a journeyman driver across NASCAR‘s three national series since 2016, made his debut for the team in the 2022 season finale at Phoenix Raceway, his 10th start of the season. The upcoming year marks his first full-time NASCAR ride since a Truck Series campaign in 2017 that produced his first national victory at Daytona International Speedway.
Eight years after running against Hunt in what is now the ARCA Menards Series East, Grala was beaming Thursday, relishing the moment in front of hi
3D render of the Nos. 24 and 26 Toyota GR Supras for Sam Hunt Racing
“I‘ve thought about this for years, and each year, wanted this to fall in place for me and it finally has,” Grala told NASCAR.com. “I feel like the trials and tribulations over the last few years have really made me appreciate this sport, how difficult it is and how important it is to me — how passionate I am about it.
“And that all makes this exact situation that much sweeter, you know? Sam Hunt Racing is such a great place to me. Great environment. They‘ve got really talented people. Great support from Toyota. I feel like I‘m in a really good place here to have a great opportunity next year.”
Hunt, who finds himself the owner of a two-car Xfinity Series team at age 29, stood in awe of the moment Thursday as his team continues to grow. In May, Hunt employed just 12 full-time workers. He said he‘ll end up with “20-plus” heading into 2023, with people eager to come work for his company.
“It‘s massive. It‘s a huge moment for the team,” Hunt told NASCAR.com. “I think having a guy like Kaz, who has really had to fight and claw for opportunities the last couple years […] I think he‘s a guy who‘s gonna give every ounce of his effort because like me, our opportunities when we do get them, we‘ve got to execute.
“And he‘s an experienced guy, which is good. He can be a good leader for our team.”
Grala will be paired with crew chief Allen Hart, who enters his second season atop the pit box after eight years as an engineer at JR Motorsports. In his rookie season as the top shot-caller, Hart had to navigate the personalities and preferences of 10 different drivers.
“As an engineer, I don‘t know that I had 10 different drivers my whole career,” said Hart, whose more than 15-year involvement in NASCAR involved working with Dave and Ryan Blaney at Tommy Baldwin Racing before teaming with Justin Allgaier and Regan Smith at JRM. “I grew a lot (in 2022). I think it helped me understand and (spotter Chris) Lambert and I, we grew a lot as a team and as friends over the season. It really made you lean on your core group and your core setup and all those things that make your group better.”
Now Hart and Co. can zero in on Grala, whose resume includes a Cup Series top-10 in the No. 3 Chevrolet for Richard Childress Racing in his debut on the Daytona International Speedway road course and a Craftsman Truck Series victory on Daytona‘s superspeedway layout in 2019.
“Having a full-time guy is going to be amazing,” Hart said. “It‘s going to let us know where we are as a group and as a team and as an organization, I think. Kaz coming in with all his road-course experience is going to be valuable for us to evaluate our program. I‘m looking forward to it — and my interior guys are looking forward to it too. One seat the rest of the year.”
Joining the team for over 60% of the 2023 schedule is Mosack. In addition to two Truck Series starts, Mosack made his inaugural two Xfinity starts in 2022 — one in Joe Gibbs Racing‘s No. 18 Toyota and one in Hunt‘s No. 26 Toyota — at Portland International Raceway and Watkins Glen International, respectively. Mosack also made eight starts in the ARCA Menards Series in 2022, scoring four top fives and seven top 10s.
The 23-year-old Charlotte, North Carolina native only began racing at age 18 and is best known for his abilities on road courses. The 2020 CARS Tour Rookie of the Year was notable in the Pirelli TransAm TA2 series, competing full-time in 2022 as he netted a Watkins Glen win, six pole positions and five podium finishes.
Hunt was quick to shower the rookie driver with praise on Thursday and offer his full support, noting the duo were introduced by Coy Gibbs, the late vice chairman and chief operating officer of Joe Gibbs Racing who died Nov. 6 after his son, Ty Gibbs, won the Xfinity Series championship.
“I met Connor last year actually through Coy and met Connor and his mom and his family,” Hunt recalled Thursday, “and I remember going home to my wife, Noelle, and just saying, ‘These are the kind of people we want in our lives.‘ Connor has every attribute that we could want in a person and in a driver.”
Mosack said he got to know Coy Gibbs as a family friend at the end of 2020, a friendship that led to Mosack‘s series debut at Portland in the JGR No. 18 in June. Now, Mosack sits prepared for a 20-race slate in the NASCAR Xfinity Series with Sam Hunt Racing, which believes in Mosack enough to be the primary driver of the No. 24 Toyota.
“That means a lot to me,” Mosack said. “I‘ve had some ups and downs in my career and had some good runs and struggled in some cars. So, to have someone support me like Sam and the guys on the team means a lot to me and it‘s obviously a good confidence booster, and that means a lot going into a new car and new team.”
Sam Hunt Racing debuted in the 2019 Xfinity season finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway with driver Colin Garrett behind the wheel. The team immediately impressed with a 15th-place qualifying effort en route to a 21st-place finish. Nemechek has scored each of the team‘s three top-five finishes — a third-place result at Richmond Raceway in 2021 remaining Sam Hunt Racing‘s best finish yet.
“Timing and patience have been pivotal components of our growth process at SHR,” Hunt said in a release. “Expanding to two full-time teams in 2023 brings an excitement level only matched by the responsibility and expectation to compete at a high level every week. It goes without saying that having a full-time driver in the No. 26 for the first time is a blessing to our organization and an important component of our growth. Kaz is a highly talented and experienced driver and has strived for an opportunity like this for a long time.
“Having Connor anchor the No. 24 team is something we are also really looking forward to. He is a very talented young man and has every trait and characteristic I look for in a young driver. We‘re heading into 2023 with confidence in both teams and drivers, and I‘m excited to continue to build this program with each of them.”
Toxic political advertising is not the way to get voters engaged in the electoral process. Main Street Agenda town halls showed dissatisfaction with status quo.
Columbus Blue Jackets vs. Buffalo Sabres - Game Highlights
Watch the Game Highlights from Columbus Blue Jackets vs. Buffalo Sabres, 12/07/2022 | 2022-12-09T15:27:56Z | sports.yahoo.com | Grala to race Xfinity full-time for Sam Hunt Racing in 2023, team expands to two cars | https://sports.yahoo.com/grala-race-xfinity-full-time-103400757.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/grala-race-xfinity-full-time-103400757.html?src=rss |
Joe Gibbs Racing taps Nemechek for full-time Xfinity seat in 2023
CONCORD, N.C. — Joe Gibbs Racing supplemented its driver lineup for the NASCAR Xfinity Series on Thursday, moving John Hunter Nemechek into a full-time role in 2023.
Nemechek is set to drive the No. 20 Toyota next season, with Ben Beshore serving as the team’s crew chief. He joins new teammate Sammy Smith, who was named Tuesday as the driver of JGR’s No. 18 GR Supra.
The addition of Nemechek was announced ahead of a formal introduction later Thursday at Charlotte Motor Speedway, where Toyota’s other affiliated Xfinity Series team — Sam Hunt Racing — also unveiled its plans for 2023.
Nemechek, who raced part-time for both JGR and Sam Hunt Racing in 2021 and 2022, competed for championships in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series over the past two seasons, piloting the No. 4 Toyota for Kyle Busch Motorsports. The move was an admitted gamble by the now 25-year-old, who chose to head to trucks after competing full-time in the premier NASCAR Cup Series in 2020 with Front Row Motorsports.
Standing outside the Paddock Club at Charlotte Motor Speedway, Nemechek reflected on the bet he made on himself that leads him to the No. 20 Toyota GR Supra — the team that enters the 2023 Xfinity Series season as defending champions as the No. 54 team previously headed by driver Ty Gibbs and crew chief Chris Gayle now renumbers.
“I think I‘ve grown a lot, that I‘m OK with taking risks at times to try and better myself,” Nemechek told NASCAR.com. “But I think the biggest thing is to continue to learn every single day and try and be better every single day. You want to push yourself as hard as you can to learn and continue learning every day to set yourself up for a better spot in the future and try to make yourself a better person off the race track as well as on the race track and just overall a better race car driver.
“I think that there‘s a lot to be said about taking a gamble at times but believing in yourself as well.”
Nemechek competed in JGR’s No. 18 Toyota in three Xfinity races last season and drove for Sam Hunt Racing in eight other events. In the Truck Series, he scored two wins, seven pole positions and placed fifth in the final standings for Kyle Busch Motorsports.
The initial move back to the Truck Series puzzled some but Nemechek saw an opportunity to regularly compete for wins and championships, hoping a possible path to the Cup Series could some day present itself. Nemechek, now a husband to wife Taylor and father to daughter Aspen, is conscious of his future but centering on the tasks at hand first.
“I don‘t know where my future lies,” said Nemechek, who made one Cup start for 23XI Racing at Homestead-Miami Speedway in 2022. “I‘m excited about this opportunity, focusing on 2023. I feel like being able to go and win races and prove myself will help set me up for a future, but I don‘t know what that future may be. So all in all, it‘s focusing on the present, focusing on the opportunity at hand to try and go win a lot of races for Toyota, TRD, all of our great partners as well as everyone at Joe Gibbs Racing.”
JGR also announced that Mobil 1 would be the primary sponsor of the No. 20 Toyota. Nemechek’s entry will also be backed by partners Berry’s Bullets, Pye Barker Fire and Safety and Romco Equipment.
Nemechek has won twice in the Xfinity Series, and his most recent victory came with Joe Gibbs Racing at Texas Motor Speedway in 2021. He is a 13-time winner in the Truck Series, with seven of those wins arriving under the KBM banner the last two seasons.
His only full-time season in the Xfinity Series came in 2019, when he scored six top fives and 19 top 10s en route to a playoff berth and seventh-place finish in points. Running one-third of the schedule in 2022 helped keep Nemechek fresh, but he admitted room for improvement heading into a new campaign.
“I don‘t want to give too much away, but I feel like I need to do better at figuring out this playoff format,” Nemechek said. “I didn‘t execute very well over the past couple years in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series and the opportunity that I had at hand to win two championships, so there‘s definitely some focus on that for me.
“Just trying to get myself better to go out and win a championship. That‘s one thing that I haven‘t done yet. So just focusing on trying to win races, trying to better on and off the race track, putting in different processes, but overall just trusting in the process and pushing as hard as I can.”
Despite entering the year with the title-defending team, the only pressure Nemechek concerns himself with is self-applied, noting he‘s his own worst critic.
“I put the most pressure on myself from anyone that‘s around me,” Nemechek said. “I know in situations where I may mess up or I may make a mistake, and I‘m hard on myself for that. But at the same time, that‘s how I learn. So for me, it‘s all about pushing to be better every single time that you hit the race track and learning every single time that you‘re on the race track and off the race track. Just excited.”
Beshore returns to JGR’s Xfinity Series effort after working the last two seasons in the Cup Series as crew chief to Kyle Busch on the No. 18 Toyota. Beshore scored three Cup victories together with Busch and is an eight-time winner in Xfinity competition — notching four wins each with Busch and Harrison Burton.
JGR brings the No. 20 back to the Xfinity Series after one year out of its car number rotation. The number was last campaigned by Burton in 2021.
Both of JGR’s full-time drivers from last season will be racing in different surroundings next year. Ty Gibbs, who claimed the Xfinity Series championship on Nov. 5, will race for his grandfather’s team in the Cup Series in 2023. Brandon Jones will be back for his eighth full season in Xfinity, but will shift to the JR Motorsports No. 9 Chevrolet next year.
Joe Gibbs Racing went back-to-back in the drivers’ championship hunt the last two Xfinity Series seasons, winning with Daniel Hemric in 2021 and Ty Gibbs this year. | 2022-12-09T15:28:09Z | sports.yahoo.com | Joe Gibbs Racing taps Nemechek for full-time Xfinity seat in 2023 | https://sports.yahoo.com/joe-gibbs-racing-taps-nemechek-080343502.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/joe-gibbs-racing-taps-nemechek-080343502.html?src=rss |
John Hunter Nemecheck will drive the No. 20 car for Joe Gibbs Racing in the Xfinity Series, the team announced Friday morning.
RCR reveals sponsors for Kyle Busch’s No. 8 car in 2023 Milestones in reach for NASCAR Cup drivers in 2023 Sammy Smith to run full Xfinity season for Joe Gibbs Racing in 2023
John Hunter Nemechek to drive for JGR in Xfinity in 2023 originally appeared on NBCSports.com | 2022-12-09T15:28:15Z | sports.yahoo.com | John Hunter Nemechek to drive for JGR in Xfinity in 2023 | https://sports.yahoo.com/john-hunter-nemechek-drive-jgr-141315309.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/john-hunter-nemechek-drive-jgr-141315309.html?src=rss |
NASCAR community celebrates life of Coy Gibbs at JGR service
HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. — The NASCAR community gathered at Joe Gibbs Racing on Wednesday afternoon to celebrate the life of Coy Gibbs.
Gibbs, the 49-year-old vice chairman and chief operating officer of his father‘s company, died Nov. 6 just hours after his son, Ty Gibbs, claimed the NASCAR Xfinity Series championship at Phoenix Raceway.
JGR, owned by NASCAR Hall of Famer and Pro Football Hall of Famer Joe Gibbs, hosted the celebration of life for Coy Gibbs at the family’s race shop. Established across the sports world, Gibbs was highly revered through multiple avenues, whether through NASCAR, motocross, football or business.
Among the several hundreds in attendance for Wednesday‘s service were current JGR drivers Christopher Bell, Martin Truex Jr. and Denny Hamlin as well as former drivers Kyle Busch, Joey Logano, Aric Almirola, Carl Edwards and Daniel Hemric. Rick Hendrick and Jeff Gordon, owner and vice chairman of Hendrick Motorsports respectively, also attended to offer condolences.
In his opening remarks, Joe Gibbs shared stories about his son that drew both laughs and tears from the crowd. Tales from Coy Gibbs‘ family members and childhood friends centered on his merciless sarcasm, tough exterior but tenderhearted and generous nature.
At the 2022 NASCAR Awards held Dec. 1 in Nashville, Tennessee, Ty Gibbs was honored with a standing ovation ahead of his championship speech. Gibbs, who will move to the Cup Series full-time in 2023, shared a video on Dec. 5 of him celebrating his title with his father in a candid moment on pit road at Phoenix.
“I love you Dad,” Gibbs wrote in the Instagram caption. “God blessed me with you in my life. I am thankful for every second I got to spend with you. Thank you for always loving me and having my back through every situation. I am so excited to see you again!”
Hamlin, a Joe Gibbs Racing driver in NASCAR‘s national series since 2004, has had close ties to the Gibbs family for years. His No. 11 stems from J.D. Gibbs, Joe Gibbs‘ eldest son who died in 2019 at age 49 after battling a degenerative neurological disease and with whom Hamlin was particularly close.
Hamlin, now a co-owner of 23XI Racing, noted Joe Gibbs is back to work but that the family is still hurting.
“Joe is just, he’s a workaholic. And it’s hard to get him to just stop and publicly be vulnerable and emotional because he is just a workhorse,” Hamlin said in Nashville. “And so, I think he took some time to grieve and then he went back to work, and that’s just kind of his M.O., and it’s kind of the way that he did with J.D. as well.
“So I think, it’s a tough time for the family, no doubt about it. I mean, I couldn’t imagine me having two kids, and just … I can’t imagine what they go through. But I’ve certainly felt like I’ve tried to lend as much help as I can. I know that they’re working on some reorganizational stuff there that I’ll be a part of. It’s just, it’s a tough time, but they’ll get through it like they always have.”
Logano, the 2022 NASCAR Cup Series champion and now a two-time title winner, started his NASCAR career with JGR and remains close with people inside the race shop. He reassured Ty Gibbs that help is nearby if wanted or needed.
“I spoke with Ty after the race, and then I got to spend some time with him last night at the champions dinner,” Logano said in Nashville. “Yeah, you don’t know how much to bring it up or not, right, because you don’t want to dwell on it or take away from his championship, either. So you just kind of put your arm around him and say, ‘Hey, we’re here for you. You need something, reach out.’”
According to Gibbs‘ obituary, in lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to:
Fidelity Charitable
Memo: Account #1194015
Coy Gibbs Memorial
Cincinnati, OH 45277-0053 | 2022-12-09T15:28:42Z | sports.yahoo.com | NASCAR community celebrates life of Coy Gibbs at JGR service | https://sports.yahoo.com/nascar-community-celebrates-life-coy-130507000.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/nascar-community-celebrates-life-coy-130507000.html?src=rss |
The 2022 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour season featured 16 races, 67 drivers and more than 2,750 laps completed from February through October.
Below are the special award winners for the 2022 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour season.
Mayhew Tools Dominator Pole Award: Justin Bonsignore
Justin Bonsignore, driver of the #51 Phoenix Communications, Inc., poses for a pole award photo during the Eddie Partridge 256 for the Whelen Modified Tour at Riverhead Raceway on September 17, 2022 in Riverhead, New York. (Mike Lawrence/NASCAR)
For the second straight year, Holtsville, New York, native Justin Bonsignore earned more No. 1 starting positions than any other driver.
The driver of the No. 51 Modified for team owner Ken Massa secured four Mayhew Tools Dominator Pole Awards, one fewer than his total last season when he won the same season-long award.
He was able to turn three of those four pole positions into victories, beginning with Richmond Raceway on April 1. He followed that up with poles and victories at Monadnock Speedway in Winchester, New Hampshire, on June 18 and New York’s Riverhead Raceway on Sept. 18.
His other pole came at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, where he finished 12th after leading the first two laps.
Mayhew Tools, founded in 1856, is the oldest punch and chisel manufacturer in the United States, growing their extensive professional grade, American made product line to include pry bars, pneumatics, cable ties and more. In 2020, the company extended its product line to a complete line of dual drive and socket bits and sets.
Serving the industrial, automotive, hardware and construction industries, Mayhew‘s premium hand tools are sold globally through an extensive distributor network. Mayhew Tools started sponsoring the Whelen Modified Tour pole award in 2019 and has continued the partnership ever since. Mayhew also sponsors six-time NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour champion Doug Coby.
In addition to Bonsignore, others to secure poles during the 2022 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour season included Matt Hirschman (three), Ron Silk (two), Jake Johnson (two), Coby (one), Timmy Solomito (one), Jimmy Blewett (one), Ronnie Williams (one) and Tyler Rypkema (one).
Doug Coby, driver of the #7 John Blewett Inc. Modified races during the CheckeredFlag.com 150 for the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour at Larry King Law\
Phil Kurze Mid-Race Leader presented by Josten‘s: Doug Coby
While he didn’t compete in every NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour race this season, Doug Coby still earned a pair of special awards.
The first of those awards is the Phil Kurze Mid-Race Leader presented by Josten‘s, named in honor of former Whelen Engineering vice president of motorsports Phil Kurze and awarded to the driver who is the leader at the halfway mark in the most races throughout the year.
The late Kurze, who was honored last year at the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, North Carolina, with a plaque in the Whelen Hall of Champions, was a strong advocate for short-track racing. He helped elevate the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour prior to his passing in 2018.
In the 12 races that Coby competed in this season, he was the leader at the halfway mark in four of them. That’s two better than both Ron Silk and Jon McKennedy, who were each the leader at halfway in two events this season.
Josten‘s, the official provider of the NASCAR Cup Series championship trophy, the Daytona 500 championship ring, the Indy 500 championship ring and more, coins itself as the Most Trusted Partner in Celebrating Moments That Matter and is a proud supporter of the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour.
Sunoco Rookie of the Year Award: Austin Beers
Austin Beers, driver of #64 Lumiere Electrical, Dell Electric, Andrew James Interior, AP Marquadt & Sons Modified gets into his car during the Phoenix Communications 150 for the Whelen Modified Tour at Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park on October 9, 2022 in Thompson, Connecticut. (Rachel O‘Driscoll/NASCAR)
The first year on the road with the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour was full of learning experiences for Northampton, Pennsylvania’s Austin Beers, but it was well worth the effort and paid off with the Sunoco Rookie of the Year Award.
Beers, who competed in four races in 2021 in preparation for his first full season with the Tour in 2022, competed in all 16 races and finished the year ranked fifth in the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour standings.
Driving for team owner Mike Murphy, Beers collected one top-five and seven top-10 finishes against the best Modified drivers in the United States. His best race of the season came at Langley Speedway in Hampton, Virginia, where he earned a third-place finish.
Sunoco, the racing fuel of choice for all of NASCAR’s racing divisions, has been involved in motorsports since the 1960s and continues to be involved today as the Official Fuel of NASCAR and the sponsor of the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour Sunoco Rookie of the Year Award.
Hoosier Tire Lap Leader Award: Doug Coby (Owner: Tommy Baldwin Jr.)
NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour tire supplier, Hoosier Tire, is the sponsor of a trio of special awards each year. They include the Hoosier Tire Lap Leader Award, which goes to the car owner of the driver who leads the most laps in a race the most times during the season.
This year the award goes to Doug Coby, who led the most laps three times during the 2022 season. Matt Hirschman also led the most laps three times during the season, but Coby got the nod thanks to his higher finishing position in the final NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour standings.
In all, Coby led a whopping 573 laps during the 2022 season despite missing four races. Hirschman, who himself only competed in seven races, led the second most laps at 384.
Justin Bonsignore, who won a season-high four races during the 2022 campaign, was third on the laps led list at 377. They were the only three drivers who led more than 300 laps during the season.
Justin Bonsignore, driver of the #51 Phoenix Communications, Inc., adds a decal to his car during the Eddie Partridge 256 for the Whelen Modified Tour at Riverhead Raceway on September 17, 2022 in Riverhead, New York. (Mike Lawrence/NASCAR)
Whelen Engineering Winner of the Race Award: Justin Bonsignore
While Bonsignore fell short of his fourth NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour championship in 2022, he still managed to win the most races throughout the year to secure the Whelen Engineering Winner of the Race Award for the 2022 season.
Bonsignore captured four wins during the 16-race season, starting with his first victory at Richmond Raceway on April 1. He collected his second triumph of the season at Monadnock Speedway in Winchester, New Hampshire, on June 18.
He didn’t win his third race of the year until September 3, when he conquered New York’s Oswego Speedway. He claimed his fourth and final triumph of the 2022 season at New York’s Riverhead Raceway on September 17 with his victory during the Eddie Partridge 256.
The Whelen Engineering Winner of the Race Award goes to the driver with the most NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour wins throughout the season. The award is sponsored by series title sponsor Whelen Engineering.
Bonsignore was one of only two drivers to win multiple races during the 2022 season, with the other being Coby, who scored three victories this year. Other race winners in 2022 included champion Jon McKennedy, Eric Goodale, Corey LaJoie, Anthony Nocella, Craig Lutz, Jimmy Blewett, Mike Christopher Jr., Matt Hirschman and Kyle Soper.
Hoosier Tire Hard Charger Award and Hoosier Tire Most Improved Award: Ron Silk
Ron Silk, driver of the No. 16 Blue Mountain Machine and Future Homes Modified, during practice for the Virginia is for Racing Lovers 200 at Martinsville Speedway on Oct. 27, 2022. (Adam Fenwick/NASCAR)
While Ron Silk fell six points shy of his second NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour championship, he did still manage to collect a pair of special awards during the 2022 season.
Silk collected the Hoosier Tire Hard Charger Award as well as the Hoosier Tire Most Improved Award during the 2022 season.
The Hard Charger award is given to the driver who advances the most positions during a race. The postseason award is given to the driver who earns the award in the most races compared to his competitors throughout the season.
Three drivers – Silk, Andrew Krause and Austin Beers – each earned two Hoosier Tire Hard Charger Awards this year. Silk was awarded the season-long award based on his higher finishing position in the final NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour standings.
The Hoosier Tire Most Improved Award goes to the eligible new team/organization whose driver improves the most positions during the course of each race. Silk secured the award for his team owners Tyler Haydt and Joe Yannone, who were in their first season as team owners on the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour.
In the team’s first year, Silk was able to earn eight top-five and 12 top-10 finishes as well as two pole positions.
Chris Akhavan will take on the new role of Chief Gaming Officer to build the marketplace’s Web3 gaming strategy following its expansion to the Polygon network.
Rekor Finalizes Sale of Non-Core Business Unit
Rekor Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:REKR) ("Rekor" or the "Company"), a global AI technology company with a mission to provide insights that build safer, smarter, and greener cities through intelligent infrastructure, announced today the closing of the sale of the Company's Automated Traffic Safety Enforcement ("ATSE") business to Altumint, an industry-leading provider of automated traffic law enforcement, traffic monitoring, and forensic investigations. | 2022-12-09T15:28:48Z | sports.yahoo.com | NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour 2022 special award winners | https://sports.yahoo.com/nascar-whelen-modified-tour-2022-102415421.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/nascar-whelen-modified-tour-2022-102415421.html?src=rss |
John Hunter Nemechek to drive for JGR in Xfinity in 2023 RCR reveals sponsors for Kyle Busch’s No. 8 car in 2023 Milestones in reach for NASCAR Cup drivers in 2023
Ryan Truex to drive six races for JGR Xfinity team in 2023 originally appeared on NBCSports.com
NEAR BAKHMUT, Ukraine (Reuters) -Russian forces have shelled the entire front line in the Donetsk region in eastern Ukraine, Ukrainian officials said, part of what appears to be the Kremlin's scaled-back ambition to secure only the bulk of territory it has claimed. Five civilians were killed and two wounded in Ukrainian-controlled parts of Donetsk over the previous day, he said early on Friday. "The entire front line is being shelled," he said, adding that Russian troops were also trying to advance near Lyman, which was recaptured by Ukrainian forces in November, one of a number of battlefield setbacks suffered by Russia in the past few months. | 2022-12-09T15:29:01Z | sports.yahoo.com | Ryan Truex to drive six races for JGR Xfinity team in 2023 | https://sports.yahoo.com/ryan-truex-drive-six-races-151349198.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/ryan-truex-drive-six-races-151349198.html?src=rss |
Ryan Truex rejoins JGR for six-race Xfinity schedule next season
Joe Gibbs Racing made another key addition to its Xfinity Series driver roster Thursday, bringing back Ryan Truex for a partial schedule in 2023.
Truex is scheduled for six races as the driver of the No. 19 Toyota. Veteran Jason Ratcliff returns to the organization as the team’s crew chief. The organization indicated that the rest of the No. 19’s driver list, plus the specific races on Truex’s schedule next year, would both be announced at a later date.
Truex is the latest piece added to the driver lineup at JGR, which announced full-time entries for John Hunter Nemechek and Sammy Smith earlier this week. All three are scheduled to be part of a Toyota presentation outlining its Xfinity Series efforts later Thursday at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
Truex returned to the Xfinity Series in a five-race slate for Joe Gibbs Racing last year, notching a best result of third place in the No. 18 Supra in July at Atlanta Motor Speedway. He also added a one-off start last season for Sam Hunt Racing, a Toyota affiliate on the Xfinity tour.
The 30-year-old younger brother to current Cup Series driver Martin Truex Jr. is a veteran of 183 starts across all three NASCAR national series. His last full-time ride was with Niece Motorsports in the Craftsman Truck Series in 2021.
Ratcliff has an expansive, successful record dating back to his start with Joe Gibbs Racing in 2005. He has been the crew chief for 15 Cup Series wins and 54 victories in the Xfinity Series. Ratcliff also teamed with Kyle Busch in an Xfinity championship campaign in 2009.
BlackRock Gets More Backlash on ESG. What It Means for the Stock.
A London-based activist investor asked the asset manager to initiate a strategic review of its stance on environmental, social, and governance investing. | 2022-12-09T15:29:07Z | sports.yahoo.com | Ryan Truex rejoins JGR for six-race Xfinity schedule next season | https://sports.yahoo.com/ryan-truex-rejoins-jgr-six-091617361.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/ryan-truex-rejoins-jgr-six-091617361.html?src=rss |
Sammy Smith to race full Xfinity schedule for Joe Gibbs Racing in 2023
Team Release
Joe Gibbs Racing made a key addition to its driver lineup for the NASCAR Xfinity Series on Tuesday, moving Sammy Smith into a full-time role in 2023.
Smith is set to drive the No. 18 Toyota in all 33 Xfinity races next season, with veteran Jeff Meendering serving as the team’s crew chief. Pilot Flying J will return as primary sponsor, joining partners Allstate Peterbilt, Renda Group, Sinclair Tractor, and Mobil 1 in backing Smith’s efforts.
RELATED: 2023 Xfinity Series schedule
The news comes two days ahead of a press conference scheduled Thursday at Charlotte Motor Speedway, where Toyota is scheduled to announce the full driver lineup for its two Xfinity Series organizations — Joe Gibbs Racing and Sam Hunt Racing.
Smith enters the national-series ranks full-time after netting back-to-back championships in the ARCA Menards Series East. He won six times last year in the overall ARCA Menards Series, joining that circuit after his 18th birthday on June 4. Smith also made his Xfinity Series debut last summer, competing in a nine-race slate and recording a best finish of third place at Watkins Glen.
“Sammy is a fantastic addition to our 2023 Xfinity lineup. He proved to have the passion and the talent necessary to compete for wins in the races he ran for us in 2022,” said Steve DeSouza, Executive Vice President of Xfinity Series and Driver Development, in a news release provided by the team. “We are excited to get him in the No. 18 full-time and know he will be competitive from the jump.”
Meendering returns for his fifth season with Joe Gibbs Racing’s Xfinity Series operation. He has worked the last four years with Brandon Jones and the No. 19 Toyota team, collecting five of his seven career wins during that span. Meendering also won twice with Cole Custer during their time together at Stewart-Haas Racing. | 2022-12-09T15:29:13Z | sports.yahoo.com | Sammy Smith to race full Xfinity schedule for Joe Gibbs Racing in 2023 | https://sports.yahoo.com/sammy-smith-race-full-xfinity-164514344.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/sammy-smith-race-full-xfinity-164514344.html?src=rss |
Alabama head coach Nick Saban has seen a number of his former assistants hired to become head coaches elsewhere. On Thursday, Western Michigan announced that the program hired Lance Taylor to be the next head coach of the program.
Taylor was a graduate assistant during his time at Alabama. Before that, he was a walk-on wide receiver for the Tide. He played under former head coach Mike Shula from 1999-2003.
Several years later, Taylor began his coaching career as a graduate assistant. He served on Saban’s staff from 2007-2008 before being hired as the wide receivers coach at Appalachian State.
Since his coaching career began, Taylor has had several larger coaching roles. He was Stanford’s running backs coach for three years. Notre Dame hired him to be the team’s running backs coach and run game coordinator. Most recently, he was the offensive coordinator at Louisville.
Now, he will be heading to Kalamazoo to lead the Broncos. This season, the team finished with a 5-7 record. Taylor and his staff will look to change that next season as he looks to build an identity for his program.
Roll Tide Wire will continue to follow Alabama football news.
Florida State offensive lineman Dillan Gibbons is the winner of the 2022 Wuerffel Trophy, it was announced Thursday evening.
Steelers offensive coordinator Matt Canada has heard a lot of criticism this season, but things have been a bit quieter for him in recent weeks. The Steelers were 2-6 when they returned from their bye, but they’ve won three of four games while averaging 23.3 points, 351 yards, and 161.3 rushing yards per game. Canada [more] | 2022-12-09T15:29:33Z | sports.yahoo.com | Former Alabama graduate assistant hired as Western Michigan’s new head coach | https://sports.yahoo.com/former-alabama-graduate-assistant-hired-141516846.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/former-alabama-graduate-assistant-hired-141516846.html?src=rss |
As college football’s award season continued, a trio of Penn State players was named to the Walter Camp All-American team on Thursday night by the Walter Camp Football Foundation, continuing to add to Penn State’s list of all-time all-American players in program history.
Offensive lineman Olu Fashanu, cornerback Kalen King, and cornerback Joey Porter Jr. were all named to the Walter Camp All-American second-team list for the 2022 season. The three are the first Penn State players to be recognized on a postseason All-American list this season. In total, Penn State now has 184 all-time All-American selections by an NCAA-recognized media outlet.
Fashanu was a rising draft prospect with his solid blocking this season, although he was banged up at the end of the year and his status for the Rose Bowl is still in question.
Porter Jr. came into the season highly regarded as Penn State’s top NFL draft prospect after he decided to return for another season in Happy Valley. Porter will not play in the Rose Bowl after announcing he was opting out for the bowl season to focus on his NFL future.
King took another big stride in his sophomore season as he stepped into a larger role in the defense this fall, and he showed why Penn State was so high on him coming out of his recruiting cycle. | 2022-12-09T15:29:52Z | sports.yahoo.com | Three Penn State players named Walter Camp All-Americans | https://sports.yahoo.com/three-penn-state-players-named-140141820.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/three-penn-state-players-named-140141820.html?src=rss |
It’s transfer portal season, and that means that each and every day for the next month, a good portion of your news feed will be filled with players announcing that they are getting set to leave their current situations in search of greener pastures and more playing time.
Earlier in the week, we looked at some of the major needs that Oregon has for their roster this offseason, which includes quarterback, to wide receiver, to offensive line on the offensive side of the ball, and cornerback, safety, and defensive line on the other side of the ball.
While that’s a lot to tackle, we want to try and break things down at a more specific level. Here are some wide receivers who have entered the portal so far this year that the Ducks might look to go after:
This list will be updated as more players enter the transfer portal over the coming weeks.
Dorian Singer (Arizona Wildcats)
College Stats: 17 Games | 84 catches, 1,406 yards, 6 TD
Oregon Offer: Yes
Explanation: It used to be the case that you rarely saw players move within the conference via the transfer portal in search of a new team, but that has changed in the past year or two. I think that it could be the case with Dorian Singer, who was the leading receiver for the Arizona Wildcats this past year, tallying four games with over 100 yards. Dan Lanning and the Ducks have a good idea of what Singer can bring to the table, and they were quick to make an offer once the portal opened.
Drae McCray (Austin Peay)
College Stats: 22 Games | 127 catches, 1,893 yards, 17 TD
Explanation: Drae McCray is certainly an intriguing option, and the Ducks made it clear early on that they were interested in acquiring him, extending an offer to him as early as they could once the FCS portal opened up. At just 5-foot-9, 175 pounds, McCray acts as a speed threat on the outside and could be a huge piece of the Oregon offense should he come out to Eugene.
Traeshon Holden (Alabama Crimson Tide)
College Stats: 21 Games | 46 catches, 570 yards, 7 TD
Oregon Offer: No
Explanation: It was a bit of a shock to a lot of college football fans when Traeshon Holden entered his name in the transfer portal this offseason, After an impressive 2022 season with the Crimson Tide — Holden had 25 catches for 331 yards and 6 TD — he will be one of the more coveted receivers available on the open market. Things heated up on Thursday night when Holden posted on his Twitter account that he was in Eugene for a visit with the Ducks.
Warren Thompson (Arkansas Razorbacks)
College Stats: 27 Games | 42 catches, 677 yards, 5 TD (Florida State, Arkansas)
Explanation: Warren Thompson may be an under-the-radar option, and one that may be more unlikely than others, but he is a solid player with connections to the Ducks. As a 4-star recruit back in 2017, Thompson originally committed to the Ducks, but decided to reverse course and flip to the Florida State Seminoles, following head coach Willie Taggart. Since then, he’s struggled to find a sizeable role, playing two seasons at Florida State before transferring to the Arkansas Razorbacks. I’m not saying that he is high on Dan Lanning’s list of options, but we do know that he has liked Oregon in the past.
Theo Wease (Oklahoma Sooners)
Oklahoma’s Theo Wease (10) runs to the end zone past Kansas State’s Khalid Duke (29) after a
College Stats: 29 Games | 64 catches, 1,044 yards, 10 TD
Explanation: This is another intriguing name to me simply for the potential that he brings. In four years with the Oklahoma Sooner, this former 5-star recruit — Wease was the No. 3 WR and No. 21 overall player in the 2019 recruiting class — seems like a great option to replace the role that Dont’e Thornton left behind. Standing at 6-foot-3, 200 pounds, Wease is coming off a year where he had 19 catches for 378 yards and 4 TD. I have not been told that Oregon has made contact just yet, but I will be keeping an eye on this one. | 2022-12-09T15:30:05Z | sports.yahoo.com | Transfer Portal Targets: WRs that the Oregon Ducks could target this offseason | https://sports.yahoo.com/transfer-portal-targets-wrs-oregon-135719809.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/transfer-portal-targets-wrs-oregon-135719809.html?src=rss |
Penn State men’s basketball hasn’t been on the best stretch in recent memory but expectations were mildly high, for once, in the second year of coach Micah Shrewsberry.
This year however there has been a solid start to the season including notable wins over schools such as Butler and Loyola (MD). They have won six of their first nine games and one of their three losses was in double overtime at Clemson which easily could have been a win. Their most recent loss came in their Big Ten opener against Michigan State but it came with a moral victory.
Michigan State coach and Basketball Hall of Famer Tom Izzo spoke after their game and heaped praise on the current team and coach Shrewsberry.
Izzo stated “For you Penn State people (media) — that’s a good basketball team. They’re experienced, they have shooters and an excellent coach.”
It is one thing for Penn State media, fans, and players to notice and feel a difference with this team but when a hall of fame coach throws that type of praise around it means something.
This year alone the team is outperforming last year to start the year. Scoring is up 10 points on the year with the defense staying tough as it did last. Jalen Pickett is on his way to an All-Big Ten season starting out averaging 15 ppg, 7 rpg, and 7 apg.
The team faces a tough challenge against Illinois who is currently ranked 17th in the country. A win or even a strong showing for them could make or break the way this basketball season is going to go. Regardless, Shrewsberry is going to have the team ready for Saturday. | 2022-12-09T15:38:59Z | sports.yahoo.com | Tom Izzo offers high praise for Penn State men’s basketball | https://sports.yahoo.com/tom-izzo-offers-high-praise-134108194.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/tom-izzo-offers-high-praise-134108194.html?src=rss |
Sitting at 3-10, the Bears’ season is all but over. They’ve already been eliminated from postseason contention, but there is still a reason to be invested in the final month of the 2022 season.
Chicago is poised to land a top-three pick in the 2023 NFL draft, which could help them land a generational talent on defense or perhaps allow them to acquire additional draft capital by trading back with a QB-needy team.
Heading into the bye week, the Bears were sitting at No. 2 overall, behind only the 1-10-1 Texans. But the Rams and Broncos were sitting behind Chicago at 3-9, having played one less game.
Thanks to Baker Mayfield, the Bears retain possession of the second overall pick after the Rams’ improbable comeback against the Raiders on Thursday Night Football.
Now, all eyes shift to the Broncos, where Denver is set to host an impressive Chiefs team on Sunday. If the Broncos lose that game, it would drop them to 3-10 (and tie them with Chicago). Denver would possess the No. 2 overall pick, given their strength of schedule, and drop the Bears to third overall.
But Chicago has a good chance to lock down that second overall pick given they have the toughest remaining strength of schedule. They’ll face three of the top teams in the NFL (Eagles, Bills and Vikings) along with a surging Lions team. | 2022-12-09T16:00:35Z | sports.yahoo.com | Bears maintain No. 2 draft pick with Rams’ comeback win vs. Raiders | https://sports.yahoo.com/bears-maintain-no-2-draft-144035294.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/bears-maintain-no-2-draft-144035294.html?src=rss |
Jordan Phillips will not suit up for the Buffalo Bills (9-3) in Week 14 against the New York Jets.
On Friday, head coach Sean McDermott ruled Phillips out for the matchup. He made the announcement during his weekly Friday segment on the team’s radio affiliate, WGR-550.
Phillips played in most of the game last week against the New England Patriots, however, he was injured on a very late play when he took a dive at quarterback Mac Jones. He sustained a shoulder injury on the play.
Despite Phillips saying he was “fine” after the contest, Phillips will not play this week.
Throughout practices in recent days, Phillips had not worked out at all.
The Bills will release their full final injury report and designation for Sunday’s game later on Friday. Bills Wire will provide that information when it is made available. | 2022-12-09T16:00:59Z | sports.yahoo.com | Buffalo Bills rule Jordan Phillips out vs. New York Jets | https://sports.yahoo.com/buffalo-bills-rule-jordan-phillips-154437130.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/buffalo-bills-rule-jordan-phillips-154437130.html?src=rss |
What are the chances that Kansas City Chiefs practice squad RB Melvin Gordon is elevated for Sunday’s game against his former team? Don’t get your hopes up, Denver Broncos fans. Gordon, who was released by Denver after a rash of fumbles this season, remains on Kansas City’s practice squad.
It’s unlikely that he’s signed to the 53-man roster as the team no longer has any open spots. Asked about Gordon’s status for Week 14, Reid didn’t rule out the possibility of a standard elevation from the practice squad, but he did posit the health of the position group as playing a factor in the decision.
“Yeah, there’s that chance,” Reid said. “We’re fairly healthy there, but I’m glad we have him here. You know he does a nice job for us.”
While the Chiefs have two running backs on the injury report this week, both players have been full participants in practice. With injuries at other positions such as linebacker and receiver, it’s possible that Gordon remains on the practice squad this week.
Should something change between now and Sunday, the team has a great deal of confidence in Gordon. Chiefs OC Eric Bieniemy spoke to the media about what he’s learned about the veteran running back after spending some time with him in the meeting rooms and at practice.
“Just watching him, he’s the ultimate professional,” Bieniemy said. “It’s the reason why he’s had the success that he’s had. Obviously, he’s had a tough year this year and sometimes that happens. Sometimes without any bad luck, you wouldn’t have any good luck at all. He’s happy to be here and I’m glad that he’s here. He’s had an opportunity to watch our guys work. He has a great deal of respect for what we’re doing and how we’re doing it. And he’s just making the most of every opportunity. He’s not complaining about anything, he just wants to know what he can do. The thing we talked about on day one, is just making sure that he’s busting his tail when he’s out there and he’s doing a great job of it. He’s a professional.” | 2022-12-09T16:01:05Z | sports.yahoo.com | Will Chiefs RB Melvin Gordon be elevated from practice squad for Week 14? | https://sports.yahoo.com/chiefs-rb-melvin-gordon-elevated-144503044.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/chiefs-rb-melvin-gordon-elevated-144503044.html?src=rss |
Maybe Britain Covey is pretty good at returning punts after all originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia
Britain Covey understands why people were starting to doubt him as the weeks went by and he still hadn't managed a punt return longer than 15 yards.
"I totally understand it," he said. "I know there were questions, but they weren't my own questions or my teammates' questions."
Eleven games into his rookie season, Covey had a modest 6.8 punt return average, which ranked 22nd out of 26 returners averaging at least one return per game. That was well under the league average of 9.1.
After a record-setting collegiate career, the longest return Covey had to show for his first 11 games was a 15-yarder in Arizona.
"I was frustrated but not because of the lack of productivity but because we just weren't getting that many opportunities," he said at his locker Thursday.
"Since Week 5, we averaged less than one punt return per game. I guess that's what happens when your defense leads the league in turnovers. They don't punt that much. And that's great. But it does make it tough.
"When you're literally getting less than one return per week it can be tough to get a rhythm going, not just as a returner but as a unit."
Covey is right. During the six games from Dallas through Green Bay, he had just five returns along with five fair catches.
The opportunities just weren't there.
Then came the Titans.
Covey's first return went 11 yards, but early in the second quarter he fielded a long Ryan Stonehouse kick and scrambled a career-long 20 yards to give the Eagles possession at their own 43.
For the first time since he got here, he heard cheers as he trotted off the field.
He added a 16-yarder later in the second quarter, then recorded another lifetime-best 27-yarder out to midfield early in the third quarter to set up Jalen Hurts' TD pass to A.J. Brown. Moments later, he added a 25-yarder.
The Eagles won 35-10, and Covey had not only recorded the three-longest punt returns of his life, he had increased his average from 6.8 to 9.4 -- now above the NFL average.
His 105 total punt return yards were the second-most in the NFL this year, four yards fewer than Marcus Jones of the Patriots had in a win over the Jets in November.
And Covey became the first Eagle in 17 years with three 20-yard returns in a game. On Dec. 5, 2005, Reno Mahe had returns of 21, 30 and 44 yards in a 42-0 loss to the Seahawks at the Linc.
"It was huge for me, for the unit, for special teams in general," he said. "It was nice to get a few more opportunities with some space, and I think more than anything it proves what we're capable of as a unit.
"It's not like we went out there and played out of our heads. We just made that one extra block to spring it. Definitely confidence-building."
The Eagles have been searching for a capable punt returner since Darren Sproles was here, and Covey's college resume is incredible. He ranked second in the BCS in punt return average the last two years at 15.0 per pop -- behind Houston's Marcus Jones, oddly -- and his 29.6 kick return was sixth-highest in the BCS in 2020 and 2021. He had five return TDs in his collegiate career.
He was a coveted undrafted rookie, and the Eagles landed him with a $137,500 guarantee.
"I've always believed in myself, I've never doubted, and I show it to myself and my teammates day in and day out at practice," he said. "Sometimes it's difficult. Even this last game, if I only got one opportunity, I would have only gotten 11 yards, and I'm sure people would still be frustrated.
"But this year has been a blast. I love being here. We're 11-1, we have a great team. Rookie year can be difficult and sometimes you don't feel like there's that much grace in terms of room to grow, so you've got to give it to yourself a little bit."
Kevin Durant with a dunk vs the Charlotte Hornets
Kevin Durant (Brooklyn Nets) with a dunk vs the Charlotte Hornets, 12/07/2022 | 2022-12-09T16:01:38Z | sports.yahoo.com | Maybe Eagles' Britain Covey is pretty good at returning punts after all | https://sports.yahoo.com/maybe-eagles-britain-covey-pretty-150200492.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/maybe-eagles-britain-covey-pretty-150200492.html?src=rss |
The Raiders looked incredible in the first three drives of the game, scoring points on each possession. While they settled for too many field goals, they did take a 13-3 lead after the first three possessions.
But the game changed when Derek Carr threw a red-zone interception right before halftime. Instead of just taking a sack on third down, Carr tried to hit Davante Adams in the back of the end zone while being hit. That resulted in an interception and the Raiders failing to take a commanding 16-3 lead going into halftime.
Carr was awful in the second half, throwing for just 11 yards. Three of their next four drives in the second half were three and outs as Carr just couldn’t get the offense going at all.
The offense struggled badly in the second half and it’s ultimately the reason why they lost this game. Despite strong performances from Josh Jacobs and Davante Adams, it was their quarterback who let them down.
Carr finished the game with a passer rating of 36.9, which is the worst that he’s had in several seasons. It’s worth mentioning that just spiking the ball into the ground on every play would net Carr a passer rating of 39.6. That’s how poorly he played on Thursday.
Here is a look at his passing chart via the NFL’s Next Gen Stats. As you will see, Carr had very little success throwing the ball over the middle of the field on Thursday.
Here is #Raiders QB Derek Carr's passing chart from Week 14 via the NFL's Next Gen Stats: pic.twitter.com/gpPPCI5t1H
The Raiders sit at 5-8 and are likely out of the playoff picture in the AFC. If they want to have any hope of making the tournament, they’ll need to win out and get some help along the way.
But with the way they played on Thursday, there is nothing to suggest this is even close to a borderline playoff team. Especially if Carr continues to play this way.
NASCAR 75: No. 2 in a series of 75 stories that helped define the first 75 years of the NASCAR, as Autoweek races to the 2023 Daytona 500. | 2022-12-09T16:02:25Z | sports.yahoo.com | Raiders QB Derek Carr struggles in epic loss to Rams | https://sports.yahoo.com/raiders-qb-derek-carr-struggles-144614089.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/raiders-qb-derek-carr-struggles-144614089.html?src=rss |
The Rams were not supposed to win that game. The went into Thursday’s matchup with the Raiders as 6.5-point home underdogs, not knowing who would start or finish the game at quarterback.
John Wolford started but it was Baker Mayfield who ended the night with one of the craziest comeback wins you’ll ever see. Having been a Ram for all but 48 hours, Mayfield pulled his team all the way back from a 16-3 deficit late in the fourth quarter with two touchdown drives, the second of which went 98 yards with less than 2 minutes to play and no timeouts.
How improbable was the win? At two points, the Rams had less than a 2% chance of beating the Raiders. And not until the final touchdown did they have better than a 23.3% chance to win, according to ESPN.
Just look at the win probability chart, which showed the Raiders in complete control all game.
Well that escalated quickly… pic.twitter.com/h7zSiyPhOA
When Mayfield hit Malcolm Brown for a 3-yard gain on third-and-4 to bring up fourth down with 4:39 to play, the Rams had a 1.2% chance of winning. The next play, Cam Akers caught a 2-yard pass for the first down, then punched it into the end zone for a touchdown the following play.
When the Rams started their game-winning drive with an incomplete pass to Tutu Atwell on first down, their win probability sat at 1.6%. A couple of penalties helped them get down the field in a hurry, but just before the game-winner to Van Jefferson, the Raiders still had a 79.6% chance to win.
Their odds then sank to 2.3% after Jefferson scored, and eventually 0% when Derek Carr was picked by Taylor Rapp.
It doesn’t get much wilder than that. | 2022-12-09T16:02:32Z | sports.yahoo.com | Rams-Raiders win probability chart shows how miraculous LA’s win was | https://sports.yahoo.com/rams-raiders-win-probability-chart-142335437.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/rams-raiders-win-probability-chart-142335437.html?src=rss |
In a hallway beneath TD Garden, following a recent win over the Miami Heat, Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum raced his son Deuce from one end to the other, letting the 5-year-old beat him to the locker room, where the boy received more of a hero's welcome than the father who just scored a season-high 49 points.
"That was the biggest year of my life, right?" Tatum said between games in the NBA Finals this past June. "Starting this new chapter in my career, I just had a child. My mindset was not to sacrifice either. I was going to be the best father I could, as well as the best basketball player. There was no guideline or exact way to do it. It was all about what was natural. ... I'm around him every day. Being able to go through this journey together, because I was 19 when I got drafted, it's like we're growing up together. As he's gotten older, I'm going through my career, sharing these moments, experiencing this together as we grow up."
We should've known nine days later, when Tatum took the podium at the lowest moment of his professional career, that a season-ending Game 6 loss to the Golden State Warriors would fuel that growth, not inhibit it.
"It's hard," Tatum, as dejected as we had seen him in five NBA seasons, said at the time. "It's hard getting to this point. It's even harder getting over the hump and winning it. It's been a long journey, a long process. That's what I took from it: It's tough. You've got to take it up another level to do what we want to do."
Those traits do not wilt in the face of defeat. They thrive. We should have never questioned how Tatum's Celtics would respond to their championship shortfall. He is the embodiment of the Kaizen growth mindset and sandcastle metaphor respectively preached by executive Brad Stevens and head coach Joe Mazzulla.
There are two ways a team can respond when their coach shows his players a picture of a sandcastle and asks them how they're going to build theirs each day before the tide forces them to rebuild anew tomorrow. This is straight dad stuff, and you're more likely to embrace the lesson when your best player lives it daily.
As Deuce prepares to enter kindergarten, his father is spreading his wings as a superstar. Tatum was a first-team All-NBA selection last season and returned a bona fide MVP candidate this season. Critics called for him to attack the basket and play through contact more often, and he has responded with a career-high 8.2 free-throw attempts per game. Tatum's 30.5 points per game and 62.3% true shooting are a direct result.
It helps that the Celtics have surrounded Tatum with teammates equally invested in their growth together. Jaylen Brown has entered the All-NBA chat. Their backcourt is so deep that Payton Pritchard rarely ever plays. Bouncy All-Defensive center Robert Williams III has yet to make his season debut, and it hasn't prevented their ascent one bit, because five-time All-Star Al Horford mans the middle, six-time All-Star Blake Griffin spells him on the second night of back-to-backs, and Luke Kornet backs up both admirably.
Tatum and Brown are the league's best duo, and it's not close. They are averaging 57.2 points per game combined, same as Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant on the vaunted 2000-01 Los Angeles Lakers. When Tatum rested against the Washington Wizards, Brown dropped a game-high 36 points. In the two games Brown has missed this season, Tatum scored a total of 78 points. Beyond statistics, they have achieved the sort of understanding necessary to coexist like few teammates ever can — at a championship-worthy level.
Their investment in each other's success has permeated every corner of the locker room. Tatum is setting more screens than any other star wing, and Brown has nearly doubled the number of screens per game he set last season. Teammates have followed suit, orchestrating a symphony of screens around them, and the Celtics are producing a league-best 1.121 points per chance on 54.1 off-ball screens per 100 possessions.
The space created by the attention paid to the two stars has Malcolm Brogdon, Grant Williams, Horford, Sam Hauser and Derrick White shooting a combined 46% on 20.5 attempts from 3-point range per game. All five rank in the top 16 among players who have attempted at least 80 3-pointers this season, and it feels sustainable, as NBA tracking data registers 94% of their 483 3-point attempts as either open or wide open.
In turn, the two star wings operate in the space Boston's shooting provides, and the result has been 119.9 points per 100 possessions, an offensive rating that would obliterate the NBA record by almost a full point.
After a slow start that was expected in the absence of Robert Williams, whose return is imminent, Boston's defense has climbed into the top five in non-garbage minutes (and top three in recent weeks), according to Cleaning the Glass. The defense with Williams led the NBA in 2021-22 and was nearly four points better than the next-best unit once they leveraged his roaming rim-protector role in the second half of last season.
If the execution on that end approaches the heights they have reached offensively, the 66-win pace they are currently tracking could approach 70, so long as they stay healthy and don't release their foot from the gas. Their master class was already in session for a road victory on Wednesday, when the Celtics took a 94-89 lead midway through the third quarter against the Phoenix Suns, then the Western Conference's top seed.
The New Orleans Pelicans are the only team within four points of Boston's net rating in meaningful possessions (+10.5), and the Celtics had them beat with 15 minutes left at the Smoothie King Center.
Giannis Antetokounmpo's Milwaukee Bucks (+5.9) are next closest and clearly the greatest threat to Boston's title chances. The argument that Khris Middleton's presence would have flipped last season's seven-game Eastern Conference semifinals series is a sound one. It also ignores the continued rise of Tatum and Brown, the addition of Brogdon and how diminished Robert Williams was in that same series.
He is firmly on that next level he referenced in his exit interview from the Finals. Tatum has risen from precocious prospect to All-Star, fringe All-NBA performer, superstar and MVP favorite. His team has fallen in line behind, taking the necessary steps towards a championship in three conference finals appearances since his arrival in 2017. You can start etching Tatum's Hall of Fame plaque now, and all he has left are the accolades he adds to the bio below his name. A first championship isn't just on his horizon. It's in full view.
We are witnessing a growing legend script the legacy he will leave to his son, who, after the recent win over rival Miami, bounded out of Boston's locker room, bolting to his grandmother, as his dad got back to work.
Tatum spoke during the Celtics' pregame media availability before they played the West's top team Phoenix Suns (16-8) on Wednesday.
Karrion Kross knows a match against Roman Reigns in the […] The post Karrion Kross: A Match With Roman Reigns Is Always On My Radar appeared first on Wrestlezone.
Good News: Baby elephant interrupts news report in the best way
Reporter Alvin Kaunda was filming a segment about orphaned elephants at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Nairobi, Kenya, when the elephants took over.
National Guardsman who doubles as a school principal surprises students after deployment
Iowa Air National Guard, First Sergeant Drew Wagner, returns from deployment to Fort Calhoun Elementary School in Nebraska, where he's the principal. | 2022-12-09T16:26:44Z | sports.yahoo.com | NBA Fact or Fiction: Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics best in show | https://sports.yahoo.com/nba-fact-or-fiction-jayson-tatum-boston-celtics-staking-claims-as-league-best-154053498.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/nba-fact-or-fiction-jayson-tatum-boston-celtics-staking-claims-as-league-best-154053498.html?src=rss |
The AU salary for 2022 was an average of $20,000 with bonuses that can move it up to $50,000 for a six-week season.
Doc Rivers and the Philadelphia 76ers discuss their goals for both James Harden and the team during this seven-game homestand.
Brittney Griner returned to the United States early Friday, nearly 10 months after the basketball star’s detention in Russia made her the most high-profile American jailed abroad and set off a political firestorm. Griner's status as an openly gay Black woman, her prominence in women's basketball and her imprisonment in a country where authorities have been hostile to the LGBTQ community heightened concerns for her and brought tremendous attention to the case. Russia's invasion of Ukraine after her arrest complicated matters further. | 2022-12-09T16:27:08Z | sports.yahoo.com | What the WNBA is doing to incentivize its players to stay home instead of going overseas | https://sports.yahoo.com/what-the-wnba-is-doing-to-incentivize-its-players-to-stay-home-instead-of-going-overseas-033221494.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/what-the-wnba-is-doing-to-incentivize-its-players-to-stay-home-instead-of-going-overseas-033221494.html?src=rss |
The Thursday before the Heisman Trophy ceremony is a night for college football’s various end-of-season awards: Outland, Bednarik, Biletnikoff, Rimington, Davey O’Brien, Nagurski, and all the rest. Caleb Williams of USC didn’t win everything on Thursday — TCU quarterback Max Duggan won the Davey O’Brien Award for best quarterback, which should not cause too much concern about the Heisman Trophy.
Keep in mind that Davey O’Brien went to TCU. He was TCU’s first Heisman Trophy winner in 1938. The chance to give the Davey O’Brien Award to a TCU player was too good to pass up. It was and is a lovely gesture and a real feel-good moment for Duggan, a chance to give him a piece of hardware and make sure he didn’t get shut out.
If Duggan did not get the O’Brien, he wouldn’t have won the Maxwell or Walter Camp Awards.
Caleb Williams — already the Pac-12 Offensive Player of the Year and a Pac-12 First-Team All-American — earned the Maxwell and Camp Awards on a night when he added to his collection of hardware.
The Heisman is next.
Williams’ capture of the Maxwell Award makes him USC’s first Maxwell winner since Marcus Allen in 1981.
You might be wondering: Didn’t USC have three subsequent Heisman winners? Yes. Carson Palmer, Matt Leinart, and Reggie Bush did not win the Maxwell in their Heisman seasons. Larry Johnson beat Palmer in 2002. Jason White won the Maxwell over Leinart in 2004. Vince Young won in 2005.
Caleb Williams snapped USC’s 41-year Maxwell Award drought.
Now, all eyes turn to Saturday night for the big one at the Downtown Athletic Club in New York. | 2022-12-09T17:27:58Z | sports.yahoo.com | Caleb Williams becomes USC’s first Maxwell Award winner since Marcus Allen in 1981 | https://sports.yahoo.com/caleb-williams-becomes-usc-first-163006663.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/caleb-williams-becomes-usc-first-163006663.html?src=rss |
Since news broke in late January that coach Jim Harbaugh would interview for the Minnesota Vikings job, the Wolverines have created constant commotion. The season has been one big, long, unending news update. If you set up your phone for alerts about this team, you’ve probably gone through one or two batteries by now and melted your case.
Even when it seemed like there was nothing more of significance that could happen after Michigan’s victory in the Big Ten championship game, a day later tight end Erick All announced he would be leaving the team. And he didn’t mind scorching those maize-and-blue bridges on his way out of Ann Arbor.
Michigan Wolverines quarterbacks J.J. McCarthy (9) and Cade McNamara (12) on the sidelines during action against the Colorado State Rams, Saturday, Sept. 3, 2022 at Michigan Stadium.
Three days before that, quarterback Cade McNamara announced he would enter the transfer portal, which eventually spit him out into Iowa City, where of course he will lead the Hawkeyes to next season’s Big Ten West title and a matchup with Michigan in the conference championship game.
Michigan has been such a lightning rod for commotion that even an inanimate object like the stadium tunnel caused a stir with an incident that involved Penn State on Oct. 15 and then two weeks later with the infamous fight after the Michigan State game that resulted in a $100,000 fine against the Spartans. The tunnel fight with MSU will forever be a landmark moment, albeit an ugly one, in the rivalry.
Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh watches replay as referees review a play during the first half of the Big Ten championship game on Saturday, Dec. 3, 2022, in Indianapolis.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Michigan football's 2022 is almost too crazy to believe | 2022-12-09T17:28:11Z | sports.yahoo.com | From Harbaugh rumors to a perfect fall, Michigan football's 2022 is almost too crazy to believe | https://sports.yahoo.com/harbaugh-rumors-perfect-fall-michigan-164847042.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/harbaugh-rumors-perfect-fall-michigan-164847042.html?src=rss |
The Ducks are in need of some reinforcements on the offensive line after losing four of their five starters from 2022. Cornelius is among the most coveted players in the transfer portal so far, receiving offers from at least 24 schools since entering the portal on November 29.
The Colorado State men's basketball team was unable to match the energy of Colorado as the Buffs blasted the Rams in Boulder. | 2022-12-09T17:28:31Z | sports.yahoo.com | Report: Coveted transfer portal OL Ajani Cornelius to take official visit to Oregon | https://sports.yahoo.com/report-coveted-transfer-portal-ol-161404720.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/report-coveted-transfer-portal-ol-161404720.html?src=rss |
How Purdy played key role in shaping 49ers' dominant defense originally appeared on NBC Sports Bayarea
Another season, another dominant 49ers defense.
But this year might be the unit's best yet, sitting atop nearly every defensive category in the NFL as San Francisco rides its current five-game winning streak.
The team will look to continue that success Sunday as they welcome the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to Levi's Stadium with rookie quarterback Brock Purdy under center, who, it turns out, played a key role in shaping the 49ers' dominant defense before taking over for an injured Jimmy Garoppolo in Week 13.
"Brock, he's been great at giving us looks all year. I think he's part of the reason our guys have played really well, because he is challenging," 49ers defensive coordinator DeMeco Ryans said Thursday of San Francisco's former scout-team quarterback. "He's not just out there just throwing picks to our guys. He's trying to actually fit the ball in and challenging our guys to really break on the ball and make plays.
"Brock has done that all year. He's not just out there just making it easy on the defense. I'm happy where we are defensively, because of Brock. He's helped us out all year."
Long before Purdy became starter thanks to a pair of injuries to both Garoppolo and second-year pro Trey Lance, "Mr. Irrelevant" was known for taking his job as the 49ers' scout team signal-caller very seriously.
He prepared for each week as if he were starting, which is how the 22-year-old was able to fit seamlessly into the offense against the Miami Dolphins and help San Francisco earn a 33-17 victory.
"I think Brock, he's the same every day. He brings it," Ryans said. "He's a competitor every day. That's the cool part about Brock -- he's always competing, whether it is scout team or what he's doing now. He's a true competitor, and he always wants to win.
"He's always looking to win the rep, and I think that's what you saw from him Sunday."
That demeanor in practice has kept the 49ers' defense on its toes throughout the first three months of the 2022 NFL season, Ryans noted, with teammates like veteran safety Jimmie Ward even applauding the rookie for the way he approaches each practice rep.
"... He feels the rush in the pocket. He's able to escape," Ryans said. "One thing I liked about Brock is he's athletic, he can move out of the pocket and still try to create on the run. And we played a lot of moving, athletic quarterbacks this year, and Brock did a really good job of giving us some looks of extending plays and creating, throwing the ball downfield, throwing no-look passes when we needed him to.
"Like he's done everything we've asked him to do. He's a true team player."
As Purdy takes on the task of starting at quarterback for the 49ers, he'll now rely on that same defense he used to go up against in practice to have his back..
His mission is simple: Get the ball to one of San Francisco's countless playmakers and control what he can, while the defense handles their business on the other side of things.
"He just has to go out and play his game," Ryans said. "And our guys just continue to do what they're doing defensively, and everybody around him, collectively, doing their job, playing their best.
"I think we'll be fine."
RELATED: Why Warner won't share his favorite Brady moment with Shanahan
As the 49ers look to clinch a spot in the NFL playoffs, they'll need to put their best foot forward week in and week out over the next five games.
And with a clearly diligent -- and talented -- Purdy now at the helm, their odds might just be as good as they have been all year. | 2022-12-09T17:32:32Z | sports.yahoo.com | How Brock Purdy played key role in shaping 49ers' top defense on scout team | https://sports.yahoo.com/brock-purdy-played-key-role-160944716.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/brock-purdy-played-key-role-160944716.html?src=rss |
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