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By DFA'ing Hosmer, the Red Sox are showing their confidence in rookie first baseman Triston Casas. The organization's No. 2 ranked prospect slashed .197/.358/.408 with five homers and 12 RBI through 27 games played with the big-league club in 2022.
As of Friday, Bobby Dalbec would serve as the team's backup first baseman. | 2022-12-16T22:44:09Z | sports.yahoo.com | Red Sox acquire RHP Wyatt Mills from Royals, DFA Eric Hosmer | https://sports.yahoo.com/red-sox-acquire-rhp-wyatt-221700422.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/red-sox-acquire-rhp-wyatt-221700422.html?src=rss |
SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) The switch to a third-string rookie quarterback has done nothing to slow down the surging San Francisco 49ers.
''This isn't our final goal by any means,'' Shanahan said. ''I'm very proud of our team, what we accomplished throughout the year to get to this. Our goal is to get in the tournament. We accomplished that. Now it's all trying to set that up to be the best situation we can.''
''He's definitely the most poised rookie I've ever had,'' Shanahan said. ''He's been like that since he's gotten here.''
''It's special and everything,'' he said. ''Honestly I'm just like another component. I'm another piece of this team in terms of a guy coming in, doing what he's asked. I'm the quarterback. I have to make decisions. I trust in how the coaches teach me throughout the week. I just try to get the ball out to the guys on time.''
The Iowa DNR said Friday that hazardous materials are leaking from the factory into the Iowa River and ordered it to "cease operations." | 2022-12-16T22:52:32Z | sports.yahoo.com | 49ers surging into playoffs behind rookie QB Brock Purdy | https://sports.yahoo.com/49ers-surging-playoffs-behind-rookie-220219847.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/49ers-surging-playoffs-behind-rookie-220219847.html?src=rss |
The Los Angeles Rams waived former Alabama linebacker Terrell Lewis on Thursday. Lewis spent three seasons with the organization.
Lewis was drafted in the third round of the 2020 NFL draft by the Rams. In three seasons with the team, Lewis tallied 40 tackles and six sacks. He played in 30 games primarily as a reserve outside linebacker.
His role had increased last season before the team traded for Pro Bowl edge rusher Von Miller. This season, he started in three games while recording 13 tackles and one sack.
Now, he will have the opportunity to be claimed off of waivers by any NFL team that desires to place a waiver claim for him. If he is not picked up, he will then become a free agent.
Rams Waived OLB Terrell Lewis https://t.co/dQ9bPG35vh #Rams pic.twitter.com/YLOHywAWQo
Roll Tide Wire will continue to follow Terrell Lewis’ professional career as well as other former Alabama players in the NFL. | 2022-12-16T22:54:19Z | sports.yahoo.com | Los Angeles Rams part ways with former Alabama OLB Terrell Lewis | https://sports.yahoo.com/los-angeles-rams-part-ways-215827546.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/los-angeles-rams-part-ways-215827546.html?src=rss |
NFL Week 15 picks: Expert predictions for Patriots vs. Raiders game originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston
The New England Patriots face another must-win game in Sunday's Week 15 matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium.
Technically, the Patriots won't be mathematically eliminated from the AFC playoff race if they lose. But a defeat would make the path back to the postseason very narrow for New England.
The Patriots, who occupy the third and final wild card spot in the AFC as the No. 7 seed, have won six consecutive games against the Raiders, with their last loss coming in 2002.
If the Patriots are going to extend that streak, they'll need to take advantage of a Las Vegas defense that's given up the ninth-most yards per game, the eighth-most points per game and has the seventh-worst third-down percentage. The Raiders also are the fifth-most penalized team at 6.6 per game.
New England has plenty of its own problems, though. Damien Harris (thigh), Rhamondre Stevenson (ankle), DeVante Parker (concussion), Isaiah Wynn (foot) and Jakobi Meyers (concussion) are among the Patriots players battling injury.
The Patriots offense hasn't looked good in recent weeks, to say the least. This unit scored only one offensive touchdown in a Week 13 loss to the Buffalo Bills and two offensive touchdowns in a Week 14 win over the Arizona Cardinals. The Patriots also rank among the 10 most penalized teams, and they committed eight penalties for 80 yards versus the Cardinals.
Which way are experts leaning in this Patriots-Raiders matchup? Here's a roundup of Week 15 picks.
Albert Breer, Sports Illustrated: Raiders
Gregg Rosenthal, NFL.com: 22-20 Raiders
Jeremy Fowler, ESPN: Patriots
David Hill, New York Times: Raiders -1
Sheil Kapadia, The Ringer: Patriots +1
FiveThirtyEight's model: Raiders have 51 percent chance to win | 2022-12-16T22:54:25Z | sports.yahoo.com | NFL Week 15 picks: Roundup of expert predictions for Patriots vs. Raiders | https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-week-15-picks-roundup-211259377.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-week-15-picks-roundup-211259377.html?src=rss |
The Green Bay Packers need to win out – which means going 4-0 over the final four weeks – to have a reasonable shot at the postseason. While the Packers offense has come to life recently behind the efforts of an improving offensive line and rookie sensation Christian Watson, the play of Joe Barry’s struggling defense will likely determine whether or not an unbeaten streak of games is possible for Matt LaFleur’s team.
The offense’s arrow is certainly pointed in the right direction. Between Weeks 10-13, the Packers scored the fifth-most points in the NFL. Three times out of the four games, the Packers scored at least 28 points. Watson scored eight touchdowns.
However, during that same stretch of games, the Packers gave up the fourth-most points, including 27 to Ryan Tannehill and the Titans and 40 to the powerhouse Eagles in Philadelphia.
Over the final four games of 2022, the Packers will play three teams currently ranked in the top 10 of scoring offenses this season. Monday night’s visit from the Rams might be the easiest test of the season, but playing the Dolphins in Miami and the Vikings and Lions at Lambeau Field in consecutive weeks will provide a big test for a defense that has played far below expectations this season.
So far, the Packers are 1-4 in games against teams ranked in the top 10 in scoring this season, and the lone win came in a comeback victory over the Cowboys in which Mike McCarthy’s team scored 28 points and was up by 14 in the second half.
By DVOA, both the Dolphins (third) and Lions (seventh) are top-10 offenses. Miami is the No. 1 passing offense. The Packers rank 23rd overall on defense and are trending in the wrong direction.
In many ways, it would be fitting if the defense faltered during this final stretch and eliminated the Packers from playoff contention early.
Since losing Rashan Gary in Detroit, the Packers have allowed over 400 total yards in all four games.
And the upcoming tests are about to get tough.
The Dolphins rank eighth in the NFL in points per game and second in yards per play, and both Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle are already over 1,000 receiving yards.
The Vikings rank 10th in scoring and feature the most productive receiver in football in Justin Jefferson, who needs 500 receiving yards over the final four games to get to 2,000.
The Lions rank fifth in points per game, sixth in yards per play and fifth in percentage of drives ending in a score. Jared Goff is fifth in touchdown passes and seventh in passer rating, Jamaal Williams has scored 14 rushing touchdowns and no team has been better in the red zone (75 percent).
Can the Packers defense step up and give this team a chance to go on a run? The answer will determine whether or not Green Bay can realistically go 4-0 to finish 2022.
A Wisconsin officer was shot and a female shooter was killed during a gunfire exchange inside a home, police said. | 2022-12-16T22:54:32Z | sports.yahoo.com | Packers defense must step up to challenge down the stretch of 2022 | https://sports.yahoo.com/packers-defense-must-step-challenge-200734714.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/packers-defense-must-step-challenge-200734714.html?src=rss |
The Los Angeles Rams hit the field on Friday for their second practice of the week as they prepare to face the Green Bay Packers on Monday night and there wasn’t much change on the injury report. Brian Allen returned to practice after sitting out Thursday, but he was still a limited participant.
Everything else remained the same on the injury report, with Aaron Donald, David Long Jr. and John Wolford all remaining sidelined by injuries. Donald is dealing with an ankle injury which has caused him to miss the last two games, while Long has a groin injury that forced him to miss last week’s win.
Marquise Copeland and Travin Howard missed practice for the second straight day, too, with Ernest Jones and Robert Rochell being limited again.
On the Packers’ side, there wasn’t much of a change, either. Elgton Jenkins was upgraded from DNP to limited, and Marcedes Lewis got the day off for rest. | 2022-12-16T22:54:51Z | sports.yahoo.com | Rams injury report: Aaron Donald still out Friday, Brian Allen limited | https://sports.yahoo.com/rams-injury-report-aaron-donald-222714470.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/rams-injury-report-aaron-donald-222714470.html?src=rss |
UCLA quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson says it's "still being determined" whether he will play against Pittsburgh in the Sun Bowl. (Mark J. Terrill / Associated Press)
The Bruins (9-3) could equal the school record for wins in a season with a victory in UCLA's first postseason appearance since 2017. The chance to make history has “been on my mind heavy,” Thompson-Robinson said, especially after last year’s Holiday Bowl was canceled because of a coronavirus outbreak on the UCLA team.
Pittsburgh quarterback Kedon Slovis is not expected to play in the Sun Bowl against UCLA after announcing his intentions to transfer. (Keith Srakocic / Associated Press) | 2022-12-16T22:55:42Z | sports.yahoo.com | UCLA's Dorian Thompson-Robinson stays mum on status for Sun Bowl | https://sports.yahoo.com/uclas-dorian-thompson-robinson-stays-221639545.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/uclas-dorian-thompson-robinson-stays-221639545.html?src=rss |
It might be the most famous ankle injury in the history of the state of Oregon.
A collective gulp could be heard inside Autzen Stadium when Duck quarterback Bo Nix had to be helped off the field toward the end of the game against the Washington Huskies.
Nix made an heroic effort to come back into the game and he tried to lead the Ducks to a late victory, but the injury was just too much to overcome.
It was an issue the following week against Utah as the offensive game plan was tooled to Nix’s immobility. Although Oregon won the game 20-17, Nix wasn’t near 100 percent.
Now nearly a month later, Nix is still doing his best to get that ankle as healthy as possible. Oregon faces North Carolina in the Holiday Bowl Dec. 28. It’ll be 32 days in between games.
“It’s getting better,” Nix said when asked on Friday. “Trainers are still doing a really good job. I’m in there a lot for treatment. It’s doing a lot better than it was.”
The Ducks will need Nix to be somewhat close to what he was when he was close to being a Heisman candidate. Although the Tar Heels will be without some key personnel in the secondary due to transfers and opt-outs, the Ducks’ offense needs to be as dynamic as possible to come out victorious inside Petco Park in San Diego. | 2022-12-16T23:49:14Z | sports.yahoo.com | Bo Nix gives injury update ahead of Holiday Bowl vs. North Carolina | https://sports.yahoo.com/bo-nix-gives-injury-ahead-232701687.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/bo-nix-gives-injury-ahead-232701687.html?src=rss |
When you go through the best helmets in college football there is no doubt that Notre Dame’s is one of the first mentioned in most discussions. Is that because it’s a great helmet though? Or is it because it’s iconic?
We’ve been holding the College Football Helmet bracket on the College Wire sites the last couple of weeks and have reached the Sweet 16. That’s where Notre Dame is right now but they’re at serious risk of falling to Florida State.
As I post this early Friday evening, the Florida State lid is leading Notre Dame’s by nearly 2%. If you think Notre Dame has a better bonnet than Florida State then you need to go vote for the Irish (and since I’m from Chicago I’ll encourage you to hit reload after voting and then go and vote again).
All you have to do is simply click this link and vote for who you think has the better helmet in the eight matchups. The voting will conclude at 8 a.m. ET on Monday, December 19th so if you’d like the Irish to advance then you know what to do.
For what it’s worth, this is a ridiculous draw in the Sweet 16 for Notre Dame. When I look at both of these helmets they’d both be in my top five overall. That said, the shiny gold with nothing else would get the nod.
Notre Dame football helmets through the years | 2022-12-16T23:49:21Z | sports.yahoo.com | College football’s best helmet: Notre Dame not among 8 best? | https://sports.yahoo.com/college-football-best-helmet-notre-223202201.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/college-football-best-helmet-notre-223202201.html?src=rss |
The Florida Gators hosted four-star tight end Jaden Platt over the weekend and the team met with him one final time Thursday before the dead period goes into effect, according to Gators Online
Florida tight ends coach William Peagler has visited four-star tight end Jaden Platt’s area each week of the current contact period, so he was of course the man to stop by on Thursday. Platt is a Stanford commit but coaching changes might have him backing off that pledge in the near future. It’s not just the recent attention that’s drawing him to Florida either.
“People talk about having the visit high or coming off a visit and you really like a school, but they’ve really had my interest before everything went down with Stanford,” Platt said to Gators Online. “I’ve kept them in the back of my head if something were to happen.”
Platt understands that he’s a priority target for Florida, a team that has yet to land a tight end in the 2023 recruiting cycle. Peagler leaving the team during bowl preparation reinforced the seriousness of Florida’s attempts, too.
Playing time could be easy to come by and his parents enjoyed the trip to the Swamp, so all that’s left is for Platt to pull the trigger and flip his commitment. That’s easier said than done though with Texas A&M also hot on his trail and a new Stanford staff that’s desperately trying to retain him.
Florida vs Oregon State: Friday betting odds for Las Vegas Bowl
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner-Coroner has confirmed that Stephen Boss, better known as the DJ and dancer tWitch, died by suicide from a gunshot wound to the head. The cause of death was widely speculated upon Wednesday when news of Boss’ December 13 death was confirmed by his wife, the dancer and TV host […] | 2022-12-16T23:49:27Z | sports.yahoo.com | Florida still pushing for this 4-star Stanford tight end commit | https://sports.yahoo.com/florida-still-pushing-4-star-221709760.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/florida-still-pushing-4-star-221709760.html?src=rss |
Michigan State football offered a legacy player this week, extending a PWO offer to Jaxson Wilson, the son of Travis Wilson, who played fullback for the Spartans in 1999 and 2000.
Jaxson played defensive line and tight end for Hartland and is in the 2023 recruiting class. He stands at 6’5″ and is 240 pounds and has offers from Davenport, Hastings, Saginaw Valley and Wayne State. | 2022-12-16T23:49:52Z | sports.yahoo.com | Michigan State football extends PWO offer to legacy DL/TE Jaxson Wilson, son of MSU | https://sports.yahoo.com/michigan-state-football-extends-pwo-233302467.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/michigan-state-football-extends-pwo-233302467.html?src=rss |
Question: Have you made a decision about where you will be for the 2023 season?
Nix: “Yeah, I wanna know too. Still trying to figure that out myself and we’ll decide later.”
Question: What are some of the factors that go into that decision?
Nix: “There’s a few things that are on both sides you got to look at. But as I’m putting that together, I’m just trying to get ready for this bowl game and get ready for North Carolina and just do well at practice and continue to get better myself.”
Question: Has the past year changed your decision at all?
Nix: “I had no idea what was going to happen when I first got here. If I had gone back a year from today and looked at my situation, I’ve come a long way. Just that in general, the whole situation has changed and I’ve put myself in a good situation that I’ve got a lot of different things to choose from.”
Question: How is your ankle doing?
Nix: “It’s getting better. Trainers are still doing a really good job, I’m in there a lot for treatment. It’s doing a lot better than what it was.”
Question: What went into your decision to play in the bowl game?
Nix: “That was kind of easy for me. I just really enjoy playing football, I enjoy playing for Oregon, and I enjoy playing for Coach Lanning. So anytime I have that opportunity, I’m going to make the most of it.”
Question: Did the way the season ended have an impact on your decision to play in the bowl game?
Nix: “That had something to do with it. Part of it was wanting to get out there and play full speed again.”
Question: What’s the process of changing offensive coordinators been like?
Nix: “It’s been different. But, you know, our playbook is the same. Coach Mehringer has done a really good job. He’s called plays in the past, and he’s very smart football mind. So he’s gonna put us in good situations, Coach Adams still got those receivers going. And then coach Summerville stepped up in the quarterback role and has done a really good job of just teaching us and continue to make strides and put us through drills and watch our practice performance and continue to make us better.”
Question: What are your thoughts on Will Stein after getting to know him?
Nix: “I like him, I like the stuff I’ve heard about him. I like being able to talk to him. Like what I’ve heard from him from an offensive standpoint, and I think he’s gonna do a really good job with what his background is. He’s very multiple. And he’s done a lot of different things. I think that’ll help the team.”
Question: Do you guys talk about what the offense would look like if you were to come back next year?
Nix: “Yeah, I think you kind of have to have those conversations because that’s part of the decision making process.”
Question: Do you know when you’ll have more of an idea on your decision?
Nix: “I’m hope it’s as soon as possible. Like you guys, I’m ready to know my decision. It’s not an easy process, it’s one of the toughest things I’ve had to do but it’s rewarding regardless of what happens.”
Question: What are your early thoughts on Drake Maye?
Nix: “He’s a really good player. I think he moves around a lot better than people expect. He’s a very athletic guy. Obviously, he’s got a big arm. And he’s gonna make a lot of really good throws. He just can kind of do it all. And I think that’s what makes him so versatile and so good.”
Question: How does potential NIL money impact your NFL decision?
Nix: “I think it’s tough because in my situation is you can hear all different, like all sorts of things from where you could get drafted. And I think that’s what kind of makes it not confusing, but it makes you have a lot of decisions because you don’t know when you’re going to be drafted. And so then you got to compare your situation to college. And you know, the value in the two decisions and there’s value in both. I don’t think I can make a bad decision.”
Question: Do you feel an obligation to still recruit players with your decision having such an impact on other guys?
Nix: “You always want to leave somewhere better than you found it. So if I can help Oregon, where I’m at right this second, if I can help them sign a guy for next year, regardless if I’m here or not, that’s a really important thing. And you know if that kids coming because I’m gonna be here and then they’re still gonna be here when I leave regardless next year, so they can’t just come because I’m gonna be here there’s a lot of other things a part of the decision. They gotta come because they feel like they’re a fit to Oregon. But at the same time, you know, if I’m, if I’m here going through bulk prep, and I’m still part of this team, I’m gonna help the team as best as I can.”
Oregon State added a big piece to their 2023 recruiting class on Friday in JUCO defensive end Nikko Taylor. | 2022-12-16T23:50:05Z | sports.yahoo.com | Notable quotes from Bo Nix as he breaks down NFL decision, potential return to Eugene | https://sports.yahoo.com/notable-quotes-bo-nix-breaks-224454049.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/notable-quotes-bo-nix-breaks-224454049.html?src=rss |
Emma Raducanu training with fifth coach in 18 months - AP
Raducanu’s many admirers should be encouraged on two counts. First, that she has filled the vacancy left by Dmitry Tursunov two months ago and will not be negotiating the early part of next year on her own. Secondly, that she moved smoothly and struck the ball sweetly on her way to a narrow defeat against Jabeur.
Sachs comes highly recommended by his former associates. A 30-year-old German, he has worked with a number of top players including former world No 1 Victoria Azarenka. He spent much of the past two seasons supervising the reigning Olympic champion Belinda Bencic, who announced in October that she was joining forces with Tursunov. In effect, these two women have swapped mentors this winter.
Emma Raducanu of Great Britain in a practice session with coach Dmitry Tursunov of Russia during previews for the 2022 US Open tennis at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center on August 27, 2022 in the Flushing neighborhood of the Queens borough of New York City. - Julian Finney/Getty Images
Raducanu’s father Ian is known for taking a sceptical view of coaches in general, feeling that many have only limited expertise in certain areas rather than a true, all-encompassing mastery of the game. There is also a pattern that the Raducanus have tended not to hire coaches whose fees are in the highest bracket.
One such coach, who is not working with a player at the moment, is the Belgian Wim FFissette – a man who has delivered significant achievements with a variety of players from Kim Clijsters to Britain’s own Johanna Konta. However, Fissette is thought to be one of the more expensive coaches on the WTA Tour.
Raducanu’s preparations for 2023 have not been helped by a lingering wrist injury that ruled her out of last month’s Billie Jean King Cup Finals in Glasgow. As with the bout of Covid that she contracted a year ago, this has limited her court time.
Nevertheless, Raducanu made a decent fist of Friday’s exhibition, which was part of the Mubadala World Championship in Abu Dhabi. She clinched the opening set with a run of four straight games, capped off with an ace, and then pushed Jabeur all the way to the line before going down on the super tie-break: 5-7, 6-3, 1-0 (10-8).
“I’m so glad this year I was able to make it out of the hotel room,” Raducanu said in reference to her illness last year.
“Last year I had a bit of a shocker. Amazing to play here in front of all of you, this is Ons’s house, so thank you for having me. I had to cut my season short because of a wrist injury, so I’ve just been building in the gym, started getting back on court recently in the last two weeks, so I’m glad to be making some progressions and looking forward to 2023.”
Raducanu’s first official tennis in 2023 is to come in Auckland, New Zealand, from Jan 2. She begins the year ranked at No 76 after a moderate 2022 in which she won 16 matches on the tour and lost 18.
As well as Sachs, she will be supported in her next chapter by the advice of Jez Green – the British physical trainer who made his name working with Andy Murray. The priority for the coming year will be to adjust to the physical rigours of the tour. The fact that Raducanu retired from four matches last season, and called the trainer in many others, only served to underline the need for greater resilience.
Himself a former Futures player, Sachs should be able to plot the next stage of Raducanu’s development while also covering the duties of a hitting partner. Now that her ranking has dropped back to a more representative level, she can aim for a year of incremental gains.
COLLEGE SPORTS ROUNDUP: Lady Buff's basketball beat Northern New Mexico 100-58
Damion Thorton is named LSC Player of the Week and men are ranked 24th in the nation.
British Airways and Virgin Atlantic have stopped selling tickets for inbound flights as strikes cause travel chaos over Christmas. The two airlines halted sales at the request of Heathrow, which has capped arrivals at 80pc of pre-pandemic levels. | 2022-12-17T00:15:15Z | sports.yahoo.com | Emma Raducanu training with fifth coach in 18 months | https://sports.yahoo.com/emma-raducanu-training-fifth-coach-140008942.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/emma-raducanu-training-fifth-coach-140008942.html?src=rss |
The 23-year-old turned heads last season when Curry went down for the final two weeks of the regular season. Poole did the heavy lifting offensively with Curry out and exhibited loads of confidence. That's what Curry wants to see out of his teammate more than anything.
"Be Jordan Poole, be himself," Curry said Friday when asked what the key is for Poole as the veteran rehabs his injury. "That stretch that he had, he played efficient basketball. He was very in control of what he was doing. That's why people know who he is now, and that translated into him being a huge factor in us winning a championship last year.
"I know he holds himself to a high standard, we talk about it all the time. He wants to be more efficient, more consistent on a nightly basis. Nobody needs to tell him that, other than himself. It'll be a great opportunity for him to reignite who he really is and who we know him to be and to help us win games."
Including the game that ended Curry's regular season, Poole averaged 26.0 points over the final 13 games of the Warriors' 2021-22 campaign. In that stretch, Poole also dished 5.9 assists and grabbed 4.8 rebounds per game, while shooting 38.2 percent from 3-point range. For the month of March, he led the NBA in 3-pointers made with 56 treys on a 44.4-percent clip from long range.
Poole also started in place of Curry for the Warriors' first five playoff games, with Curry coming off the bench as he rounded into shape. He scored 30 points in his playoff debut and followed that up with 29 points in Game 2 and 27 points in Game 3. Poole found himself in the history books, becoming the 16th player in NBA history to score at least 25 points in each of his first three playoff games, and the second Warrior to do so, along with Wilt Chamberlain.
That stretch late in the regular season, plus his many impressive playoff performances, are a major reason why the Warriors handed Poole a contract extension worth up to $140 million this offseason. Once seen as a rough draft pick, Poole worked himself into a franchise cornerstone for the present and future. The start to the season hasn't gone as expected, though.
While the Warriors have struggled to a 14-15 record and 2-13 on the road, Poole's efficiency and consistency have taken a step back from last season. He is averaging a career-high 4.6 assists per game.
But in navigating his role as the Warriors' Sixth Man, Poole's 17.9 points are down from his 18.5 a season ago, and his shooting numbers are his worst since his ugly rookie year. Poole shot 44.8 percent from the field and 36.4 percent beyond the arc last season.
This season, he's at 42.4 percent overall and 31.9 percent on 3-pointers. He led the league in free-throw percentage last season, shooting 92.5 percent from the line. That number also is down. Though he's taking a career-best 3.7 free throws per game, his percentage has dropped to 86.1 percent.
"The biggest thing with Jordan that we've been trying to work on with him is just to slow down," Steve Kerr said after Wednesday night's loss. "He just gets in a rush. He has so much ability, I think sometimes it's the guys with the most ability when they're young who make the most mistakes, because they're trying to learn what they can and can't do. He's so gifted, he's so fast and shifty that he frequently is getting himself into trouble just by being in a rush.
"We're trying to slow him down and it's all going to come with experience. He's still a very young player."
RELATED: Steph reacts to shoulder injury, relieved surgery isn't needed
The good news is, Poole's scoring and numbers look to be on the rise. In six of the Warriors' last seven games, he has scored 20 or more points. The one game he didn't, he gave Golden State 18 points.
Control and playing the game at the right pace for Poole will be huge for him and the Warriors going forward. There's no solution for having Steph stuck to the sidelines.
They've been here before, though, and Poole masterfully stepped up in an impossible situation. Curry and Kerr are confident he can do so again, as long as he doesn't try to be anybody else. Be Jordan Poole, one game at a time.
Gunn and Peter Safran have spoken to Ben Affleck about directing a DC film.
Injury Report: Warriors’ Andrew Wiggins (adductor) cleared to return to practice, out vs. Sixers on Friday
The Warriors will be without Andrew Wiggins due to his adductor injury on Friday against the Sixers.
NBA fines Mike Brown $25K for heated exchange with refs in Kings-Raptors game
After giving NBA officials a piece of his mind in Wednesday's win over the Toronto Raptors, Kings coach Mike Brown has been fined $25,000 for the heated exchange, the league announced Friday.
Celtics head coach offered a xx update on Robert Williams prior to his return to action Friday night. | 2022-12-17T00:15:34Z | sports.yahoo.com | Steph Curry, Steve Kerr's advice to Jordan Poole with all eyes on him | https://sports.yahoo.com/steph-curry-steve-kerrs-advice-213830896.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/steph-curry-steve-kerrs-advice-213830896.html?src=rss |
"I didn't want it to be about me," Paul told Andscape’s Marc J. Spears after the ceremony. "I was trying to make it as normal as possible. You know, all these students here have fought their butts off for a while to get their degree. And I wanted to make sure that in no way I was trying to show them up on their special day. They had a lot of family, loved ones that's here to support them and to see them. And I just wanted to be a graduate just like that."
Chris Paul earned his bachelor's degree in mass communications on Friday, nearly two decades after he first enrolled at Wake Forest. (Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
Mikal Bridges scored 27 points, Chris Paul added 15 points and 13 assists and the Phoenix Suns snapped a five-game losing streak with a 111-95 victory over the depleted Los Angeles Clippers on Thursday night. Devin Booker scored 14 points in his return from a two-game absence with a hamstring injury for the Suns, whose longest skid in three years ended with a blowout of a Clippers lineup missing most of its important players. Phoenix took a 27-point lead in the first half and maintained a comfortable double-digit margin while closing out just its second win in eight games in December. | 2022-12-17T00:15:40Z | sports.yahoo.com | Suns star Chris Paul officially graduates from Winston-Salem State, gifts classmates $2,500 each | https://sports.yahoo.com/suns-star-chris-paul-officially-graduates-from-winston-salem-state-gifts-classmates-2500-each-224046034.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/suns-star-chris-paul-officially-graduates-from-winston-salem-state-gifts-classmates-2500-each-224046034.html?src=rss |
That was one of a handful of injury updates from Thursday’s game in Seattle. Shanahan also said wide receiver Danny Gray (hamstring) and cornerback Ambry Thomas (ankle) are day-to-day after leaving the game early.
Shanahan’s decision to not put Ward back in the game could’ve saved him from a more severe injury. Ward will be in concussion protocol which means he’s unable to practice or play until he’s cleared. There’s no set recovery time on head injuries, but with no game until December 24, Ward will have more than a week to get through the steps required to return to action.
Four-time NBA champion Stephen Curry said Friday he was relieved that he won't need surgery on his partially dislocated left shoulder, but had no timetable for his return.
Notre Dame Football: Transfer Portal Tracker for 2022-23
Who do you most want to see Notre Dame bring in via the portal? | 2022-12-17T00:24:04Z | sports.yahoo.com | 49ers injury updates: CB Charvarius Ward in concussion protocol | https://sports.yahoo.com/49ers-injury-updates-cb-charvarius-235733562.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/49ers-injury-updates-cb-charvarius-235733562.html?src=rss |
ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP) Denver Broncos wide receiver Jerry Jeudy has been fined more than $36,000 by the NFL for his blowout with an official prior to catching a career-best three touchdown passes against the Kansas City Chiefs last weekend.
Jeudy spoke about his blowout after the game and earlier this week, saying he needs to keep his cool in such situations. As for a fine, he said, ''I know they're going to fine me. It is what it is. I know the consequences of the situation. I'm just going to learn from it.'' | 2022-12-17T00:24:10Z | sports.yahoo.com | AP source: Jeudy fined $36K for blowup with game official | https://sports.yahoo.com/ap-source-jeudy-fined-36k-231825655.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/ap-source-jeudy-fined-36k-231825655.html?src=rss |
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) Tennessee's injury issues continue to worsen with Titans being declared out, including a trio of defensive starters, for Sunday's game at the Los Angeles Chargers.
''We will keep working with Dillon,'' Vrabel said. ''He did some good stuff. He's played a couple of different positions for us. We will try to expand where he is at. We will see kind of where things lead on Sunday and there is a pretty good chance that he'll probably play multiple positions.'' | 2022-12-17T00:25:52Z | sports.yahoo.com | Titans' injury woes worsen with 7 declared out vs. Chargers | https://sports.yahoo.com/titans-injury-woes-worsen-7-221441635.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/titans-injury-woes-worsen-7-221441635.html?src=rss |
The USC Trojans are a couple of weeks away from playing in the Cotton Bowl against Tulane.
However, decisions are being made regarding those players who are eligible to go pro. One impending decision was linebacker Shane Lee, who had a good season for USC after transferring from Alabama. His season might have been even better if he had been able to stay healthy, but that’s part of the point: Getting a healthy Lee for 13 games could make a real difference for USC next season.
Guess what? USC will have Lee next season.
The Trojans got good news when Lee announced he will return in 2023, according to Ryan Kartje of The Los Angeles Times.
After three seasons with the Crimson Tide, Lee became a major impact player for the Trojans’ defense in 2022. He finished with 71 total tackles, 2.5 sacks, and a pair of interceptions on the year.
Lee’s return is a massive boost for Alex Grinch’s defense, and the hope is that more impact players come via the transfer portal. One player taking a visit to USC is Coastal Carolina transfer LB Josaiah Stewart.
Lee began the year in terrific fashion with a pick-6 against Rice.
The Trojans’ defensive issues came to light toward the end of the season, so Lee returning next year is great news. Now they wait on the decision of All-America DL Tuli Tuipulotu, who hasn’t decided but did announce he will play in the Cotton Bowl.
If the Trojans can have Tuipulotu and Lee back in 2023, plus a new wave of portal players and recruits, their defense will be much improved in 2023. | 2022-12-17T01:20:42Z | sports.yahoo.com | Linebacker Shane Lee will return to USC in 2023 — huge lift for the Trojans’ defense | https://sports.yahoo.com/linebacker-shane-lee-return-usc-005226797.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/linebacker-shane-lee-return-usc-005226797.html?src=rss |
Zach Wilson is ready to go. After getting a chance to reset himself and work on his fundamentals since his benching after Week 11, the former No. 2 overall pick now is back in the saddle for the New York Jets. Certainly, not the way he expected to be back, but he is excited nonetheless.
Wilson didn’t even know until Friday that he was going to return to the starting lineup after doctors would not medically clear Mike White to play against the Detroit Lions in Week 15 due to fractured ribs. As a result, it’s a “cool opportunity” as Wilson put it Friday.
Wilson has spent the last three weeks working on himself and getting his fundamentals back to where they should be. After losing his starting job to Mike White after the Patriots game in Week 11, Wilson was dropped to the No. 3 position on the depth chart. Wilson was elevated to the No. 2 role this week and head coach Robert Saleh did so with the thought that there was a possibility Wilson was going to play because of the uncertainty of White.
“When he was elevated to the number two quarterback, it was with the understanding that there’s a strong possibility that he was going to play and to prepare accordingly,” Saleh said. “He’s gotten vast majority of the first team reps, he’ll get all the reps today, he’ll get all the reps tomorrow, and so, we feel very comfortable about Zach’s preparation as the first-string quarterback and that he’s gotten his normal work load as a starting quarterback would normally get with the limitations that were placed on Mike, but love Mike, love how hard he’s worked to try to get back for his team, but at the end of the day, it’s just one of those deals where we’ve got to protect the player from the player.”
Wilson was always preparing himself as if he was the guy, even during the time he was inactive as the No. 3 quarterback.
“For me, going into this week it was let me prepare like I’m the guy and that’s what I did the last couple of weeks when I was inactive,” Wilson said. “So, taking the day as if I was the guy. We had no idea what it was going to be, and it’s not up to me, right? I don’t make that call if I’m playing or not, so it was just controlling what I can.”
He’ll now have the chance to control what he can in the game Sunday and he knows he has to be better at making decisions on the field, especially with the Jets fighting for a playoff spot.
“I’ve got to make the best decision for the guys in this locker room, and sometimes maybe it’s taking a sack, throwing it away, make the best decision for this team. So, that’s got to be the mindset going into that game, and I’m excited to try and show what I’ve been working on these past three weeks or whatever it is.”
Can his issues be fixed in such a short time? Who knows? Saleh at least is speaking out confidence in that potential, saying “I don’t think it’s impossible. He’s done a really nice job. I thought he’s had two of his best throwing days in practice.”
As for Wilson, he’s just focusing on enjoying football again, after he told reporters earlier in the week that he had to “find the fun in football again.”
“I’ve really just focused on enjoying football again, going back to the basics, the fundamentals of just being an efficient quarterback, and having those scout team reps I think were beneficial for me, and just being able to just decisively try and get the ball out of my hands, and be accurate, and get the ball to play makers.”
Now Wilson can go out and have fun, especially since, in his words, “the worst has already happened.” Wilson added: “I’m going to go out there and just have fun, and whatever happens, happens and I’m going to go out there and lay it out there and I’m going to do whatever is best for this team and that’s not my control if they want to make that change down the road or whatever. I’m going to go out there and play the best that I can and put this team in the position that I feel like is best for the team.”
Wilson also said, “I would play this game for free, and I think I said that the other day, it’s just you know you don’t go into this game thinking I’m doing this at eight years old trying to make a living like this.”
While Wilson can now seemingly have fun again, the hopes of the playoffs for the Jets seem to rest squarely on his shoulders, as he may end up starting in Week 16 as well, with the Jets on a short week against the Jaguars. From there, it’s anybody’s guess. For now, it’s just one game, one play at a time for Wilson.
Mike LaFleur talks Zach Wilson: 'He's in a good place in terms of that mental reset' | Jets News Conference
In this Jets news conference, offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur says QB Zach Wilson took the right approach after his benching three weeks ago, attacking the issues that led to his demotion.
Aaron Donald was still missing from practice Friday, but Brian Allen returned as a limited participant
Amazon (AMZN) closed at $87.86 in the latest trading session, marking a -0.67% move from the prior day. | 2022-12-17T01:55:38Z | sports.yahoo.com | Having a chance to reset since his benching, Zach Wilson ready for his ‘cool opportunity’ Sunday | https://sports.yahoo.com/having-chance-reset-since-benching-005654893.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/having-chance-reset-since-benching-005654893.html?src=rss |
How Jimmy G, Purdy made NFL history in 49ers' win streak originally appeared on NBC Sports Bayarea
The 49ers have come a long way since they were 3-4 and at a crossroads midway through the 2022 NFL season.
Since then, they've put together a seven-game winning streak, with the latest a 21-13 victory over the Seattle Seahawks on Thursday night at Lumen Field.
While the 49ers' defense will earn most of the praise for San Francisco's impressive run, another aspect is that Brock Purdy and Jimmy Garoppolo haven't turned over the football.
OptaSTATS noted that, during the win streak, the 49ers' starting quarterbacks have zero fumbles and zero interceptions. It's a cliché, but taking care of the football has helped the 49ers ensure they won't beat themselves.
Furthermore, the 49ers are the first team in NFL history to go undefeated with no interceptions or fumbles by their starting quarterbacks over a seven-game span.
Now, Purdy did throw an interception during the 49ers' 33-17 win over the Miami Dolphins in Week 13, but the 22-year-old came in relief of Garoppolo, who suffered a broken foot, in that game.
But since taking over the starting job from the veteran quarterback, Purdy hasn't put San Francisco's defense in difficult situations by turning over the football, as the former Iowa State signal-caller is playing with poise under center.
RELATED: Purdy cracks awesome Kittle one-liner after 49ers' win
Should the 49ers continue to play good defense and take care of the football, any opponent will find it challenging to grab a win over San Francisco. | 2022-12-17T01:55:45Z | sports.yahoo.com | How Jimmy Garoppolo, Brock Purdy made NFL history in 49ers' win streak | https://sports.yahoo.com/jimmy-garoppolo-brock-purdy-made-231407456.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/jimmy-garoppolo-brock-purdy-made-231407456.html?src=rss |
The offense for the Raiders runs through Josh Jacobs. Not only is he leading the NFL in rushing yards, but he is also the leader in yards from scrimmage. If the Raiders want to win on Sunday, Jacobs will need to be a big reason why.
They’ll face the New England Patriots and Bill Belichick in Week 15, who are notorious for taking away an opponent’s best player. Needless to say, you can expect the Patriots to load the box and try to stop Jacobs.
In a recent article by ESPN, senior NFL writer Mike Reiss believes the Patriots will be able to hold down Jacobs. Here are his thoughts on what the Raiders will try to do on Sunday afternoon:
“Raiders RB Josh Jacobs, the NFL’s leading rusher, will be held to fewer than 100 yards as Belichick will devote extra defensive resources to slowing him down. The challenge for the Patriots, however, will be that it leaves them vulnerable in other areas — such as against WR Davante Adams. Thus, the game could come down to whether QB Derek Carr can deliver with the game in his hands.”
If the Patriots do devote extra resources to stopping Jacobs, this should be a game in which Davante Adams goes wild. And with the possibility of Darren Waller and Hunter Renfrow returning to the lineup, could this finally be the week the offense takes off for Las Vegas? | 2022-12-17T01:55:57Z | sports.yahoo.com | Will the Patriots be able to stop Raiders RB Josh Jacobs? | https://sports.yahoo.com/patriots-able-stop-raiders-rb-014143761.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/patriots-able-stop-raiders-rb-014143761.html?src=rss |
New England Patriots quarterback Mac Jones understands the importance of Sunday’s game against the Las Vegas Raiders, and he’s trying to make sure the rest of the team understands it as well.
Jones and the Patriots will be looking to start a two-game winning streak, as they come back from Arizona following a 27-13 win over the Cardinals. The second-year quarterback passed for 235 yards on Monday, as the offense continued to find its footing.
Now, they’ll turn their attention towards a Raiders team that suffered a narrow loss at the hands of the Los Angeles Rams in Week 14.
Sunday’s game carries heavy playoff implications for both teams, which has led to an extra vocal Jones standing up and stressing the importance of taking care of business on the road. It’s pretty obvious his teammates are receiving that message loud and clear.
“I’m not going to lie to you, obviously we’re chasing a result this week,” special teams captain Matthew Slater said, via NESN’s Zack Cox. “You ask what’s going to make this a successful week, it’s going to be winning the game. But I think in order to do that, it’s going to be about preparation, and Mac said it (Wednesday) — trying to keep our routine as close to normal as possible. Whether it’s on the practice field, in the meeting room, recovering.
These next couple of weeks will be anything but a vacation.
The Patriots launched themselves back into the playoff race as a result of Monday night’s win. Now, they look to secure a victory over Las Vegas and get closer to cementing themselves firmly in the playoff picture. | 2022-12-17T01:56:04Z | sports.yahoo.com | Patriots QB Mac Jones has important message as playoff race heats up | https://sports.yahoo.com/patriots-qb-mac-jones-important-013300857.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/patriots-qb-mac-jones-important-013300857.html?src=rss |
Alabama fans received some exciting news on Friday afternoon with the shocking discovery that both Bryce Young and Will Anderson Jr. would not be opting out of the Allstate Sugar Bowl but would indeed be practicing with their teammates as they prepare for Kansas State.
Friday also happened to be the day that Nick Saban and the Crimson Tide would hit the practice field for the first time leading up to the bowl game on Dec. 31.
Following Alabama’s practice, coach Saban would address the media and along with other things, discussed the importance of the Tide not having any opt-outs this year.
Here is everything coach Saban had to say on Friday:
On if Young or Anderson gave a reason for deciding to play
On if Young and Anderson consulted with him before making a decision
On how it’s been trying to plan around opt-outs and players entering the transfer portal
On the benefit of the early enrollees being able to practice
On his early thoughts on Kansas State
On building depth and sustaining it when players want instant playing time
“Look. Players leave. You have the opportunity to recruit other players, so you have two sources of getting players. You can get players out of the portal if you find somebody that you think is going to be a positive addition to your team. Or you recruit young players that you think are going to develop and be a positive addition to your team. I think being able to do this now, you can’t replace anybody now, so you’ve just got to play with what you’ve got. There are quite a few teams that are playing bowl games that have a significant number of guys that have gotten in the portal. We’re working hard to help these guys that are here with us to develop the future and create value for their future regardless of what their circumstance is.
On the impact of Young and Anderson Jr. playing has on college football
“Well, I think it sets a great example for guys that respect their teammates, want to be a part of their team, know the impact they can make, the value they can create for themselves by playing well against good competition. I’m extremely proud of these guys. We’re going to support them in every way we can. As an institution, we’ve minimized the risk of them playing in the game by ensuring them the best we possibly can so that they’re not taking a big risk by playing— as much as you can, taking the risk out of it for them. I can’t tell you how much I respect them as competitors, guys that have been great leaders on this team, the leadership they have given and shown, and I think the leadership they continue to show by playing in this game.”
On how bowl practice differs from the regular season
“Well, I think football is football. But I think because you have a significant amount of time off, you have to go back to square one and try to start out almost like you’re starting camp. And then once you get through three or four of those practices, then you can start practicing more like you’re getting ready for a game. That’s the only significant difference.
On the current state of the offensive line
“I think you guys know who’s on the team. I mean, we don’t have any secret admirers that snuck in like in the middle of the night. It is what it is. We’re going to coach the guys that we have. It’ll be an opportunity for some other players to get a lot of playing time, certainly get a lot of practice time, a lot of repetitions, and hopefully, that enhances their chances of being successful in the future.” | 2022-12-17T02:52:00Z | sports.yahoo.com | Everything Nick Saban said following Alabama’s first bowl practice | https://sports.yahoo.com/everything-nick-saban-said-following-013133306.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/everything-nick-saban-said-following-013133306.html?src=rss |
And so the Twins' shortstop on Opening Day next March 31 in Kansas City will be the same one it has been for the past couple of decades: TBD. This is a franchise, after all, that has used 14 different starting shortstops over the past 19 Opening Days, more than any other team, and only twice in that time the same one in two consecutive seasons. That's the state of affairs, and not an ...
Valoe Corporation Stock Exchange Release 16 December 2022 at 16.00 Finnish time The subscription period of the Convertible Bond 2/2022 issued by Valoe Corporation (“Company”) ended on 15 December 2022. The Convertible Bond 2/2022 was subscribed for a total of EUR 1.7 million. Out of the approved subscriptions, EUR0.8 million are new cash investments, and EUR0.9 million was paid by setting the subscription price off against the subscribers’ indisputable receivables from the company. The receivabl | 2022-12-17T03:18:38Z | sports.yahoo.com | PGA Tour vs. LIV clash continues over reported meeting at The Match | https://sports.yahoo.com/pga-tour-vs-liv-clash-153303990.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/pga-tour-vs-liv-clash-153303990.html?src=rss |
Reigning World Cup champion France will defend its title against Argentina in the final match on Sunday
The final will feature a showdown between two of the world’s best players and PSG teammates Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé
En route to the Championship match, France beat Morocco 2-0 in the semifinals, putting an end to Morocco’s magical Cinderella tournament run
Western Kentucky vs. South Alabama in New Orleans Bowl: Prediction, players to watch
This looks to be an unstoppable force against an immovable object as WKU will try to impose its offensive might on South Alabama’s stingy defense. | 2022-12-17T03:18:44Z | sports.yahoo.com | Superstars and PSG teammates Messi, Mbappe to meet in Cup final I The Rush | https://sports.yahoo.com/superstars-and-psg-teammates-messi-mbappe-to-meet-in-cup-final-i-the-rush-041851324.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/superstars-and-psg-teammates-messi-mbappe-to-meet-in-cup-final-i-the-rush-041851324.html?src=rss |
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The General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces is assessing the probability of a repeat of Russian attack from the territory of Belarus as low. Source: Brigadier General Oleksii Hromov, Deputy Chief of the Main Operational Directorate of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, during a briefing at the Military Media Centre on 15 December Quote: "Taking into account the available data, it can be inferred that at this moment, that the probability of the enemy launching an offensive operatio
Meghan Markle went from a working actress to a royal to a producer for Netflix — here's a complete timeline of her career
From starring in a Tostitos commercial to becoming a New York Times-bestselling author, Meghan Markle's career continues to evolve. | 2022-12-17T03:27:08Z | sports.yahoo.com | Behind Enemy Lines: Previewing the Texans’ Week 15 with Chiefs Wire | https://sports.yahoo.com/behind-enemy-lines-previewing-texans-023506737.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/behind-enemy-lines-previewing-texans-023506737.html?src=rss |
The search for the remaining 12 campers caught in Friday's deadly landslide at an unlicensed campsite in Malaysia continued for a second day after an overnight halt due to bad weather, officials said. At least 21 people, including five children, were killed after a landslide in Batang Kali, a popular hilly area about 50 km (30 miles) north of Kuala Lumpur, tore down while people slept in their tents. There were 94 people caught in the landslide but 61 were safe, with 12 still missing, according to the Malaysia National Disaster Management Agency. | 2022-12-17T03:27:35Z | sports.yahoo.com | Ron Rivera, Jason Wright sign letter to the bosses of fans for excused time on Monday | https://sports.yahoo.com/ron-rivera-jason-wright-sign-024102389.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/ron-rivera-jason-wright-sign-024102389.html?src=rss |
'One of a kind': Jake Dickert, Jeff Tedford reflect on Mike Leach's impact on college football
Ahead of the Jimmy Kimmel LA Bowl, Washington State head coach Jake Dickert and Fresno State head coach Jeff Tedford, who was the Cal head coach from 2002 to 2012, reflect on Mike Leach's widespread impact on college football.
On LA Bowl eve, Fresno State’s Tedford looks forward and back. ‘I’ll never forget our team.’
Robert Kuwada gets you ready for the Bulldogs’ matchup vs. Washington State with insights and video.
ATLANTA (Dec. 16, 2022) – Officials from the Bobby Dodd Coach of the Year Foundation and Peach Bowl, Inc….
Police have expanded their investigation into the murder of those four university of Idaho students in Moscow. Investigators say they’re looking outside Moscow for leads. | 2022-12-17T04:23:31Z | sports.yahoo.com | 'One of a kind': Jake Dickert, Jeff Tedford reflect on Mike Leach's impact on college football | https://sports.yahoo.com/one-kind-jake-dickert-jeff-032243801.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/one-kind-jake-dickert-jeff-032243801.html?src=rss |
Kyrie Irving hit a game-winning 3-pointer at the buzzer and the Brooklyn Nets rallied to beat the Toronto Raptors 119-116 on Friday night, extending their winning streak to a season-high five. Irving scored 15 of his 32 points in the fourth quarter, eluding Toronto’s Fred VanVleet to connect on the decisive basket — the first game-winning buzzer-beater of his NBA career. “Honestly, I was thinking basket,” Irving said.
NBA admits refs missed Raptors foul on De'Aaron Fox late in Kings' win
The NBA announced that the refs did miss a Raptors foul on Kings guard De'Aaron Fox late in the fourth quarter of Wednesday night's game in Toronto. | 2022-12-17T04:49:38Z | sports.yahoo.com | Kyrie Irving hits buzzer-beater over Fred VanVleet to lift Nets past Raptors | https://sports.yahoo.com/kyrie-irving-hits-buzzer-beater-over-fred-van-vleet-to-lift-nets-past-raptors-032530755.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/kyrie-irving-hits-buzzer-beater-over-fred-van-vleet-to-lift-nets-past-raptors-032530755.html?src=rss |
Stanford stymies Green Bay in most dominant win since 2019
Stanford men's basketball controlled the game from start to finish in its 85-40 win over Green Bay. The Cardinal had 13 different players score in the win. Stanford improves to 4-6 on the season.
RJ Barrett scored 27 points and the New York Knicks again used 3-point shooting to beat the Chicago Bulls, 114-91 on Friday night to sweep the two-game set and run their winning streak to six. Jalen Brunson and Quentin Grimes each added 22 points to help the Knicks follow their 128-120 overtime victory over the Bulls on Wednesday night. New York, which entered 26th in the NBA in 3-point shooting, was 17 for 44 on 3s after going 18 of 34 two nights earlier. | 2022-12-17T05:29:20Z | sports.yahoo.com | Stanford stymies Green Bay in most dominant win since 2019 | https://sports.yahoo.com/stanford-stymies-green-bay-most-032703416.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/stanford-stymies-green-bay-most-032703416.html?src=rss |
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) Ethan Greenfield, Luke Lehnen and DeAngelo Hardy delivered the big plays and North Central (Ill.) beat Mount Union 28-21 on Friday night at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium to win the Amos Alonzo Stagg Bowl and claim the NCAA Division III championship.
''It's unbelievable,'' said Spencer. ''I'm so proud of my staff and players. I just didn't want to mess it up as a first-year coach.''
''We're trying to be the best,'' he stated. ''And in order to get there you have to beat the best. Beating Mount Union is a step in that direction.'' | 2022-12-17T05:54:49Z | sports.yahoo.com | North Central holds off Mount Union 28-21 for D-III title | https://sports.yahoo.com/north-central-holds-off-mount-042748714.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/north-central-holds-off-mount-042748714.html?src=rss |
Boston got out to a 10-point lead before going cold late in the first quarter. Orlando went on a run to go up 19 in the third quarter and while the C's were able to cut the deficit to seven, they couldn't complete the comeback in the fourth.
Within his first four minutes, Williams committed three personal fouls. We'll chalk that up to the 25-year-old being a bit too excited to be back on the court. All in all, it was an encouraging return as he finished 4-for-4 (all dunks) with nine points and five rebounds in 18 minutes. The most important thing of all, he moved well and looked to be at full strength.
Brown's 26-point outing was overshadowed by his seven turnovers. He turned the ball over four times in Tuesday's overtime win over the Los Angeles Lakers. The Celtics will hope its an anomaly as Brown had only five turnovers in his previous five games combined.
Top plays from Boston Celtics vs. Orlando Magic
Top plays from Boston Celtics vs. Orlando Magic, 12/16/2022 | 2022-12-17T09:06:19Z | sports.yahoo.com | Celtics vs. Magic takeaways: Orlando spoils Robert Williams' return | https://sports.yahoo.com/celtics-vs-magic-takeaways-orlando-032800947.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/celtics-vs-magic-takeaways-orlando-032800947.html?src=rss |
Led by Donovan Mitchell's 41 points (28 in the 2nd half), the Cavaliers defeated the Pacers, 118-112. Darius Garland added 20 points, six rebounds, and 10 assists for the Cavaliers in the victory, while Tyrese Haliburton tallied 17 points and 14 assists for the Pacers in the losing effort. The Cavaliers improve to 19-11 on the season, while the Pacers fall to 15-15. | 2022-12-17T12:26:33Z | sports.yahoo.com | Cavs' Donovan Mitchell takes over yet again: 'You don't poke the bear, and they poked him' | https://sports.yahoo.com/cavs-donovan-mitchell-takes-over-103023275.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/cavs-donovan-mitchell-takes-over-103023275.html?src=rss |
The eyes of the NFL world will be watching FedEx Field Sunday night in one of the top games of the weekend.
The Washington Commanders and New York Giants enter Week 15 with identical 7-5-1 records. The Commanders hold the No. 6 spot in the NFC playoff race, with the Giants right behind them hanging onto the final spot.
Sunday’s game has major playoff implications, particularly after their first meeting in Week 13 ended in a 20-20 tie. According to Football Outsiders, the winner of Sunday’s NFC East battle has around a 90% chance of making the postseason.
To get us better prepared for Sunday’s game, we spoke with Giants Wire managing editor Dan Benton for a preview of the rematch.
What do the Giants need to do on offense against the Commanders this time around?
Dan Benton: Pass protection is a big key. Game film over the past several weeks has shown the potential for big plays but the limited time Daniel Jones has received in the pocket has prevented the Giants from connecting. Not only that, it has put the underneath targets at risk and against the Eagles, we saw that actually lead to an injury. One way to help combat that is to get the ground game working again, but the interior line has fallen apart and rookie Evan Neal isn’t getting the job done at right tackle. Saquon Barkley and the other backs have been getting hit at the point of the handoff, leading to more negative plays. It’s a vicious cycle at the moment.
The Commanders seemed to have stopped New York’s running game in the second half two weeks ago. Is Daniel Jones the key to the running game vs. Washington?
DB: Fair or unfair, Daniel Jones is the key to everything right now. Very few are getting the job done around him, so the onus falls squarely on his shoulders. And that’s not an exaggeration. He’s their leading passer, leading rusher, and second-highest graded run blocker over the past month. The only thing he’s not doing is throwing the ball to himself. So on Sunday night against Washington, he’s going to have to find a way to win by any means necessary. If that means calling his own number 20 times, so be it
Taylor Heinicke had success against New York’s pass defense. Is that a concern heading into Sunday?
DB: The Giants are so thin in the secondary it’s become a constant concern. Adoree Jackson and Xavier McKinney are still out, Aaron Robinson is on IR, Nick McCloud has an illness and Julian Love is burning out due to overuse. They’ve resorted to playing guys out of position and relying on practice squad elevations just to fill out depth. The pass rush really has to create organic pressure in order to lighten the load on the back end.
How healthy are the Giants this time around?
DB: In what has become an unexplainable trend, the Giants are once again one of the NFL’s most-injured teams. For 10 years they’ve finished in the bottom-5 in terms of health and are on pace to do so again. They will be without at least three starters on Sunday night (not including McKinney or others on IR) and could be without five more depending on how things progress over the weekend. They will most definitely be limping into the Week 15 game.
What did the Giants do well in last week’s loss to the Eagles?
DB: Nothing. Literally, nothing. It was the ugliest performance of the entire season and felt a lot like the Joe Judge era. They were committing penalties, dropping passes, failing in their protections, missing tackles and assignments, the coaches failed to adjust, the clock management was suspect and the only real success came in desperation moments and garbage time.
DB: If the Giants had come into this game with any level of health, I’d feel a lot more optimistic about their chances. But since they’ve gone in the opposite direction on the injury report, it’s hard to believe they’re going to be able to overcome all of that on the road. And while Daniel Jones has typically played very well at FedEx Field, he’s also 0-9 in his career in primetime. As a team, the Giants haven’t won in primetime in 11 straight contests. Even with their playoff lives on the line, I don’t think they get it done. Washington also has the advantage based on the scheduling quirk. Commanders 27, Giants 23
What's your score prediction for the Broncos' game against the Cardinals? | 2022-12-17T12:35:28Z | sports.yahoo.com | Commanders vs. Giants: Behind Enemy Lines with Giants Wire | https://sports.yahoo.com/commanders-vs-giants-behind-enemy-105755435.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/commanders-vs-giants-behind-enemy-105755435.html?src=rss |
The Denver Broncos are set to host the Arizona Cardinals in Week 15 of the 2022 NFL season on Sunday. Check out NFL.com’s preview of the game in the above video.
After playing the Cardinals on Sunday, the Broncos will go on the road for a Christmas Day showdown with the Los Angeles Rams next week.
Marquise Brown, Antonio Hamilton added to injury report Thursday | 2022-12-17T12:35:53Z | sports.yahoo.com | WATCH: NFL.com previews the Broncos-Cardinals game | https://sports.yahoo.com/watch-nfl-com-previews-broncos-110006229.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/watch-nfl-com-previews-broncos-110006229.html?src=rss |
Former Penn State head coach Joe Paterno continues to hold the record for the most coaching victories in a college football game with 24, and that record appears to be safe for a few more years. It goes without saying then that current Penn State head coach James Franklin has a long way to go to catch up to Paterno.
Entering the 2022-23 bowl season, Franklin has been on the winning side of a bowl game as often as he has been on the losing end. Franklin’s career bowl record of 5-5 is highlighted by a pair of New Years Six bowl game victories in the Fiesta Bowl and Cotton Bowl, and he has taken Penn State to two Rose Bowls since arriving from Vanderbilt. Franklin was 2-1 in bowl games at Vanderbilt, a remarkable feat on its own given Vanderbilt is just 4-4-1 all-time in bowl games.
Franklin coached in Penn State’s first bowl game since being relieved of NCAA sanctions in his first season on the job with a trip to the Pinstripe Bowl in 2014. But Franklin is 0-3 in bowl games against his former foes from the SEC with losses to Georgia, Kentucky, and Arkansas.
Here is a look back at each bowl game coached by Franklin heading into the 2023 Rose Bowl against Pac-12 champion Utah.
2011: Liberty Bowl vs. Cincinnati
November 5, 2011; Gainesville FL, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores head coach James Franklin (left) talks with the referees during the second half against the Florida Gators at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Florida Gators defeated the Vanderbilt Commodores 26-21. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Cincinnati 31, Vanderbilt 24
2012: Music City Bowl vs. North Carolina State
Vanderbilt coach James Franklin, left, congratulates running back Zac Stacy after he was named MVP of the Music City Bowl at LP Field Dec. 31, 2012. Vanderbilt defeated North Carolina 38-24 before 55,801 fans.
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Vanderbilt 38, North Carolina State 24
2013: BBVA Compass Bowl vs. Houston
BIRMINGHAM, AL – JANUARY 04: Head coach of the Vanderbilt Commodores James Franklin (center) celebrates with his team following a victory over the Houston Cougars in the BBVA Compass Bowl at Legion Field on January 4, 2014 in Birmingham, Alabama. Vanderbilt won the game 41-24. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
Vanderbilt 41, Houston 24
Dec 27, 2014; Bronx, NY, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions head coach James Franklin celebrates with players after overtime of the 2014 Pinstripe Bowl against the Boston College Eagles at Yankee Stadium. Penn State won 31-30 in overtime Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Penn State 31, Boston College 30
JACKSONVILLE, FL – JANUARY 02: Head coaches Bryan McClendon of the Georgia Bulldogs and James Franklin of the Penn State Nittany Lions shake hands after the TaxSlayer Bowl game at EverBank Field between the Georgia Bulldogs and the Penn State Nittany Lions on January 2, 2016 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Rob Foldy/Getty Images)
Georgia 24, Penn State 17
Jan 2, 2017; Pasadena, CA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions head coach James Franklin talks with running back Saquon Barkley (26) before the game between the Penn State Nittany Lions and the USC Trojans at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
USC 52, Penn State 49
Dec 30, 2017; Glendale, AZ, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions head coach James Franklin walks onto the field with wide receiver DaeSean Hamilton (5), safety Marcus Allen (2) and linebacker Jason Cabinda (40) prior to the game against the Washington Huskies in the 2017 Fiesta Bowl at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Penn State 35, Washington 28
Jan 1, 2019; Orlando, FL, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions head coach James Franklin yells from the sidelines during the second half in the 2019 Citrus Bowl against the Kentucky Wildcats at Camping World Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports
Kentucky 27, Penn State 24
Dec 28, 2019; Arlington, Texas, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions head coach James Franklin celebrates with wide receiver Jahan Dotson (5) and quarterback Sean Clifford (14) after a touchdown during the second quarter against the Memphis Tigers at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Penn State 53, Memphis 39
Jan 1, 2022; Tampa, FL, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions head coach James Franklin runs out of the tunnel before the game against the Arkansas Razorbacks during the 2022 Outback Bowl at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-USA TODAY Sports
Arkansas 24, Penn State 10
There's a divide between city residents and IU students. One graduate student said this division has had a negative impact on local youth of color.
DeMar DeRozan with a 2-pointer vs the New York Knicks
DeMar DeRozan (Chicago Bulls) with a 2-pointer vs the New York Knicks, 12/16/2022
Donovan McMillon and Pitt seemed like a natural fit for one another from the moment he entered the transfer portal on December 7th. McMillon was a star high school players in the Pittsburgh region in the class of 2021 for Peters Township. “Obviously when it comes to the team and all the football and everything, I just loved what Coach Sanders and Coach Narduzzi were talking to me about and being able to play in an aggressive defense and win and that’s really important to me,” McMillon told Panther-Lair.com. | 2022-12-17T12:48:18Z | sports.yahoo.com | James Franklin’s all-time bowl game record and results | https://sports.yahoo.com/james-franklin-time-bowl-game-113622209.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/james-franklin-time-bowl-game-113622209.html?src=rss |
The Kansas City Chiefs (10-3) are on the road again, this time against the Houston Texans (1-11-1) in Week 15.
This is the first time the Chiefs have played the Texans since the 2020 NFL season and the first time they’ve played in Houston since 2017. After a disappointing performance in Week 14, where they let their opponent back into the game after leading 27-0, Kansas City will be looking to bounce back with a sharp performance.
Here’s a look at four Chiefs players who we’ll be paying close attention to when they square off with the Texans on Sunday:
If there was ever a week to pound the rock, this is it. Through 13 games this season, the Houston Texans have allowed a league-leading 2,156 rushing yards on 447 attempts, good for 4.8 yards per carry. They’re pound-for-pound the worst defense in the NFL when it comes to defending the run. On 124 rushing attempts this season, Isiah Pacheco has recorded 591 yards and is averaging 4.8 yards per carry.
Reid has been a solid, but unspectacular addition to the Chiefs so far this season. He’s lacking game-changing plays with no interceptions or forced fumbles so far this year. His biggest moment was a big hit in coverage to force an incompletion back against the Bills in Week 6. This week, perhaps things will be different during his Houston homecoming. He’s familiar with Texans QBs Davis Mills and Jeff Driskel after playing with them both last season. If anyone knows their strengths and weaknesses and can take advantage, it’s Reid.
It’s homecoming week for Mahomes as well, who is playing the first game of his NFL career in his home state of Texas. The last game that Mahomes played in the state of Texas was when his Texas Tech Red Raiders took on their Rival Baylor Bears in November of 2016. Mahomes threw for 586 yards, six touchdowns and no interceptions during that game.
Mahomes also has another thing going for him this week. He’s coming off his third career performance with three interceptions. In his two prior games following three-interception performances, Mahomes has been near flawless, recording 49 completions for 549 passing yards for seven touchdowns with no interceptions.
LB Willie Gay Jr.
One of the biggest weaknesses for the Chiefs this season has been defending passes in the middle of the field. They’re 32nd in DVOA defending such passes per Football Outsider’s Aaron Schatz. Gay Jr. remains the Chiefs’ best coverage linebacker as the only player at the position with a pass breakup and interception. This week he could have his hands full against the Texans. Without star rookie Dameon Pierce, veteran RB Rex Burkhead is going to take a prominent role, especially in the passing game. He has 29 receptions for 169 yards and a touchdown on the season. | 2022-12-17T14:06:39Z | sports.yahoo.com | 4 Chiefs players to watch in Week 15 vs. Texans | https://sports.yahoo.com/4-chiefs-players-watch-week-134525418.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/4-chiefs-players-watch-week-134525418.html?src=rss |
The Chicago Bears are coming out of their bye week refreshed and ready to face on a daunting task in their final four games of the season. They have the toughest remaining schedule from here on out, including facing three playoff teams and another on the outside looking in.
That starts Sunday when Chicago welcomes the red-hot Philadelphia Eagles to town. For quarterback Justin Fields, he’s excited about the opportunity to face one of the league’s best teams. And while no one is giving the Bears a chance, Fields said his team is going to bring it.
“I’m excited to see what we can do as a team,” Fields said, via ChicagoBears.com. “These guys [the Eagles], they’re labeled as one of the best teams in the league, so any chance you get to go up against a team like this, [and] the Buffalo Bills next week, it’s awesome just to see what we can do now and see where we are right now.
“And, of course, we’re going to go in there swinging. They know that. They know that we’re not just going to lay down. We’re not going to do that. They’re going to have to face us. I’m excited to see what we can do, what our offense can do and how it stacks up.”
The Bears will face a dominant Eagles defense that ranks among the top in a number of statistical categories. That includes leading the NFL in sacks (49) and takeaways (24). Philadelphia presents a lot of challenges for this Chicago offense, which is something Fields welcomes.
“They’re big, athletic and fast,” Fields said. “Each one of their guys, their d-linemen, are talented, so they try to create one-on-ones, and when they do stunt, they know how to stunt well. The o-line just has to do a great job holding up one-on-ones and passing off the games and stuff like that. They’re talented up front, for sure. It’s going to be a good test for us.”
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Both Michael Woods II's own personal growth and injuries in the Browns' receiving corps have opened the door for him to see an increased role. | 2022-12-17T14:06:58Z | sports.yahoo.com | Bear Necessities: Justin Fields excited to face talented Eagles team | https://sports.yahoo.com/bear-necessities-justin-fields-excited-123232469.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/bear-necessities-justin-fields-excited-123232469.html?src=rss |
The Indianapolis Colts (4-8-1) and Minnesota Vikings (10-3) are set for a Week 15 matchup at U.S. Bank Stadium.
As the Colts have lost six of their last seven and are essentially out of the playoff picture, the Vikings have the second-best record in the NFC and can clinch the division with a win.
Who: Indianapolis Colts (4-8-1) at Minnesota Vikings (10-3)
Where: U.S. Bank Stadium — Minneapolis, MN
Channel: NFL Network (national), Fox59/WXIN (regional)
Broadcast: Noah Eagle (play-by-play), Nate Burleson (color analyst), Lindsay Czarniak (sideline), Tom Pelissero (sideline)
Sirius XM Radio (Vikings) — Channel 81 or 225, Sirius XM App
Colts – CB Kenny Moore II (out), WR Mike Strachan (out), CB Brandon Facyson (out)
Vikings – OLB Patrick Jones (questionable), C Garrett Bradbury (questionable), CB Cam Dantzler (questionable), OLB Danielle Hunter (questionable), DL Harrison Phillips (questionable)
Colts are 4-point road underdogs
Jefferson Morley, historian and editor of the JFK Facts blog, discussed the release of thousands of documents related to the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. According to the National Archives, 97% of all documents related to JFK's assassination have now been released, and the remaining 3% are either fully or partially redacted. | 2022-12-17T14:07:11Z | sports.yahoo.com | Colts vs. Vikings: How to watch, stream, listen in Week 15 | https://sports.yahoo.com/colts-vs-vikings-watch-stream-132634114.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/colts-vs-vikings-watch-stream-132634114.html?src=rss |
There was no shortage of motivation for the Jacksonville Jaguars when they traveled to Nashville in Week 14. In addition to fighting to keep their postseason hopes alive, the Jaguars were playing a division rival in the Tennessee Titans.
With four games left in the regular season, the Jaguars are two games behind the Titans for the AFC South lead. Make up one game over the next three weeks and the Jaguars will almost definitely be playing the Titans for the division crown in Week 18.
The problem for the Jaguars is that they’ll play the Cowboys and New York Jets — teams that are 10-3 and 7-6, respectively — over an upcoming five-day span. Losing both would likely guarantee the season is over for Jacksonville.
The Jaguars have risen to the occasion twice in the last three weeks to beat the Titans and Baltimore Ravens. But between those wins, the team fell flat in a 40-14 blowout loss against the Detroit Lions. The Jaguars don’t have much margin for error and can’t afford to have a similar lackluster performance Sunday. | 2022-12-17T14:07:17Z | sports.yahoo.com | Doug Pederson: ‘We’re playing for our lives’ vs. Cowboys | https://sports.yahoo.com/doug-pederson-playing-lives-vs-124519910.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/doug-pederson-playing-lives-vs-124519910.html?src=rss |
Shanahan on Friday in a conference all with reporters talked about a play call in Thursday night’s game where he had the rookie seventh-round pick throw on first down from the 49ers’ own 1. The throw was batted down at the line, but the process matters more than the result. That play call was borne from Shanahan’s confidence in Purdy.
“My confidence in Brock just allows me to call what I think is right,” Shanahan said. “You trust him to make the right play. And so, you call things that you think are right at the time. In that situation, every play to me is risky. It’s when you’re on the half-yard line running the ball is risky, sometimes more risky than throwing it. You can get rid of it at least when you throw it. But sometimes when you run it’s just one guy has to take one wrong step, one little stunt and a three technique meets the back in the back field and there’s not much you can do about it. So that is why people sneak it a lot in that situation just to avoid that. But with Brock’s situation and his health going into that game sneak wasn’t much of an option.”
Had Shanahan not trusted Purdy, they might’ve run into a catastrophe at their own goal line by trying to hand it off in that spot. Alas, he was comfortable letting the rookie spin it. The pass was batted down, but the confidence is what matters here.
There’s no expectation that Purdy is going to be Patrick Mahomes in his first year in the NFL. All he has to do is execute the offense at a high level, and the fact Shanahan is already sure he’ll make the correct play is a great sign for the 49ers as they try and get a rookie QB to the Super Bowl for the first time ever.
It’s still just 11 quarters though and there’s a long way to go before the postseason. Then the postseason is an entirely different beast. However, the foundations for success are being laid. Shanahan trusts his QB and calls him the most poised rookie QB he’s been around.
With Shanahan calling plays on one side of the ball and the NFL’s No. 1 defense on the other, San Francisco may have a real chance if Purdy keeps playing the way he has these last three games. | 2022-12-17T14:07:36Z | sports.yahoo.com | Kyle Shanahan’s early confidence in Brock Purdy will be key for 49ers offense | https://sports.yahoo.com/kyle-shanahan-early-confidence-brock-130014038.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/kyle-shanahan-early-confidence-brock-130014038.html?src=rss |
New England Patriots special teams ace Matthew Slater had high praise for a rookie who has been making an impact on the unit.
Slater is a 10-time Pro Bowl selection. So he has been around the league long enough to know a good special teams player, and rookie Brenden Schooler falls into that category.
Schooler, an undrafted rookie out of Texas, is a classic Bill Belichick find that has made a noticeable impact in the time he’s spent with the organization.
He has 10 solo special teams tackles, which is tied for the NFL lead. He also has multiple fumble recoveries and has recovered a blocked punt. The California native has been able to do it all for New England, and that effort has caught the attention of Slater, who commented on if he believes Schooler is playing at a Pro Bowl level.
“I certainly do, yeah,” Slater said, via NESN’s Dakota Randall. “I think he’s playing as well as anyone in our league right now. It’s been fun to watch him grow and develop. I would say he’s getting better every week, but he was pretty good from the beginning.
Schooler could be an important piece for the Patriots on special teams, with Slater in particular getting older. One thing is for certain: He has made the most of his time in New England, and by the looks of it, he’s just getting started. | 2022-12-17T14:07:49Z | sports.yahoo.com | Patriots captain Matthew Slater has high praise for this rookie | https://sports.yahoo.com/patriots-captain-matthew-slater-high-135212933.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/patriots-captain-matthew-slater-high-135212933.html?src=rss |
15-year NFL referee Carl Cheffers and his crew are set to officiate the Kansas City Chiefs’ Week 15 game against the Houston Texans according to Football Zebras.
This is the second time that the Chiefs have drawn Cheffers and his crew this season, with the first occurrence coming back in Week 5’s “Monday Night Football” tilt with the Las Vegas Raiders. That game included a controversial roughing the passer penalty called against DT Chris Jones. The Arrowhead Stadium crowd booed Cheffers and turned on the officiating crew. The play is one of many this season that have sparked new debate surrounding how the roughing the passer calls are officiated.
Through 12 games, Cheffers’ crew has called the fourth-most penalties in the NFL this season with 158 on the year. Cheffers calls the second-most penalties per game at 13, with only Clete Blakeman’s crew calling more penalties on a per-game basis. Cheffers’ crew also dismisses the fourth-fewest penalties in the NFL, so if a penalty is called initially, expect it to stand. A total of 76 penalties have been called on the home team by this crew compared to 82 on the away team.
Like every other officiating crew, false start (31) and offensive holding (29) lead the way. Houston has around the league average in false start penalties with 14 on the year, while Kansas City has the fewest in the NFL this season with five. After those two penalties, defensive pass interference (12) and defensive holding (10) have been called with the greatest frequency by this crew. That’s not great news for the Texans, who are going to be missing their top two cornerbacks, Derek Stingley Jr. and Steven Nelson.
Our second injury report of the week for the #Chiefs and #Texans. | 2022-12-17T14:07:56Z | sports.yahoo.com | Referee Carl Cheffers’ crew assigned to work Chiefs-Texans game | https://sports.yahoo.com/referee-carl-cheffers-crew-assigned-124512573.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/referee-carl-cheffers-crew-assigned-124512573.html?src=rss |
The Chicago Bears (3-10) will battle the Philadelphia Eagles (12-1) on Sunday, where they’re looking to snap a six-game losing streak. But it won’t be easy against one of the best teams in the NFL.
The Bears will face a tall order going against a red-hot Eagles team that’s contending for a Super Bowl. Meanwhile, Chicago is competing for a top-three draft pick.
If you live in the blue area of the map, you’ll be able to watch Bears-Eagles locally at Noon CT on FOX (via 506sports.com).
The rest of the country will get Cowboys-Jaguars (red) and Falcons-Saints (yellow) as part of FOX’s early slate of games.
Joe Davis and Daryl Johnston will be on the Bears-Eagles call for FOX.
The Bears and Eagles kick things off Sunday at Noon CT on FOX. | 2022-12-17T14:08:06Z | sports.yahoo.com | TV broadcast map for Bears vs. Eagles in Week 15 | https://sports.yahoo.com/tv-broadcast-map-bears-vs-131052290.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/tv-broadcast-map-bears-vs-131052290.html?src=rss |
Ahead of the final gridiron game of the season for both programs ESPN’s Andrea Adelson chimed in along with her colleagues for their guide to this year’s bowl games. Here is what she had to offer on the matchup in Las Vegas on Saturday afternoon.
Oregon State is going for its first 10-win season since 2006 after a surprising season, one that earned coach Jonathan Smith a new six-year contract. While the Beavers should be close to full strength, the opposite is true for Florida, which will be without starting quarterback Anthony Richardson, All-American guard O'Cyrus Torrence and a host of other players who have either decided to opt out of the game or enter the transfer portal. Jack Miller III is expected to make his first career start for the Gators at quarterback after Jalen Kitna was dismissed from the team. Miller threw only 14 career passes at his previous stop, Ohio State.
Fed has indicated to slow down the rate hike momentum. This may open room for growth ETF investing. | 2022-12-17T14:54:38Z | sports.yahoo.com | Here’s what ESPN thinks you should know about Las Vegas Bowl | https://sports.yahoo.com/espn-thinks-know-las-vegas-141803107.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/espn-thinks-know-las-vegas-141803107.html?src=rss |
Nate Kibble is a 2024 6-foot-2, 320-pound offensive lineman from Humble, Texas, where he plays for Atascocita High School. The Atascocita Eagles finished the 2022 season 11-3 with a 38-7 loss to North Shore in the Texas UIL 6A D1 state championship game.
There are currently no Crystal Ball projections at this time for Kibble, but Texas A&M is an 84% favorite per On3.
Film Analysis: Kibble stars at left tackle for the Eagles. He has really nice speed, footwork, and power. He has to pull to the opposite side on a lot of run plays and he has no problem getting out in front of the running back. In pass protection, he does a great job of creating a clean pocket and protecting his quarterback’s blind side.
Humble, Texas
Texas A&M is an 84% favorite per on3 | 2022-12-17T14:54:45Z | sports.yahoo.com | LSU offers 3-star Texas offensive lineman in 2024 class | https://sports.yahoo.com/lsu-offers-3-star-texas-130022664.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/lsu-offers-3-star-texas-130022664.html?src=rss |
Transfer quarterback Grayson McCall was originally planning to visit Auburn this weekend but according to a report by Christian Clemente of Auburn Undercover that will not be happening.
McCall is one of the top players in the transfer portal and arguably the top quarterback after spending the past four seasons at Coastal Carolina.
A three-year starter, he threw for 2,633 yards and 24 touchdowns to just two interceptions in 2022. He has completed 70% of his passes for 8,019 yards and 78 touchdowns to just eight interceptions in 34 career games.
The good news for Auburn is that NC State transfer quarterback Devin Leary is officially visiting Auburn this weekend. He is also one of the top players in the portal and is competing with McCall as the top quarterback on the transfer market.
With McCall canceling his visit, Leary now appears to be Auburn’s top quarterback target. Leary was a star in 2021 for the Wolfpack but was limited to just six games in 2022 because of a shoulder injury.
Completing 66% of his passes, he threw for 3,433 yards and 35 touchdowns to eight interceptions in 2021. In 30 career games, he has completed 60.2% of his passes for 6,807 yards, 62 touchdowns to 16 interceptions. He will have one more season of eligibility at his next school. | 2022-12-17T14:55:03Z | sports.yahoo.com | Transfer QB Grayson McCall will no longer visit Auburn | https://sports.yahoo.com/transfer-qb-grayson-mccall-no-130021256.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/transfer-qb-grayson-mccall-no-130021256.html?src=rss |
After two weeks off, the Chicago Bears finally play a football game this weekend. Unfortunately, it comes against arguably the best team in the league. The Bears (3-10) face off against the Philadelphia Eagles (12-1) on the lakefront in a game that could provide a glimpse into the future.
Many believe the Eagles are the perfect roadmap for the Bears. They re-worked their defense over the last couple of seasons and let their young, dynamic quarterback grow in their system while also surrounding him with improved players at the skill positions. The result has been a stellar team led by an MVP candidate. The Bears are hoping they can do the same with their quarterback next season.
Speaking of quarterbacks. the matchup between Justin Fields and Jalen Hurts is on everyone’s mind, but it’s more than just them. Here are four bold predictions for Sunday’s game.
Fields and Hurts possess many of the same skills that make them so dangerous as quarterbacks. Most notably is their ability to make something out of nothing by running or scrambling with the football. Fields leads all quarterbacks with rushing yards and is second in rushing touchdowns. Hurts is third in yards, but first in touchdowns. Simply put, these quarterbacks are going to make plays on the ground this weekend more often than not.
The Bears defense won’t be much of a match for Hurts’ abilities and while the Eagles can stop the run, they’re going to struggle to stop Fields. Especially considering he may look to lean on the run with many of his pass-catching weapons missing. Both players will combine for at least 200 yards on the ground Sunday.
The Bears wide receiver corps is fairly depleted going into Sunday’s game. Darnell Mooney has been on injured reserve for the last three weeks and now Chase Claypool is out due to a knee injury. The offense will need someone else to step up and at this point in the season, it might as well be Velus Jones Jr.
This won’t be a career game for the 25-year old rookie, but it will be his best performance of the season given the ample opportunity at his feet, even if that’s not saying much. Jones has just 72 yards from scrimmage this season and one touchdown. That could change, however.
Jones will score his first touchdown since Week 5 and will see more looks than ever before. He’s had the bye week to get better integrated into the game and it’s going to pay off in a big way. He’s being thrust back into the lineup and he can’t miss this opportunity.
Seeing as the Bears are down their top two receivers, it means Cole Kmet is primed for a big day. Without Darnell Mooney in their last game, Kmet caught the most passes he’s had this year with six for 72 yards. Kmet was able to get plenty of separation against the Packers defense and continues to improve in his third season.
The Bears are likely going to be down early to the Eagles and will need to open up the passing game to stay in the game. Kmet will be the prime beneficiary of those targets and could have a chance to set a career high in receiving yards. Kmet needs 88 yards to do that, but I believe he gets more and gets the first 100-yard receiving game of his career.
The Bears defense is getting some much-needed help with the return of rookies Jaquan Brisker and Kyler Gordon. Both players missed the last few weeks with concussions, but are back to help shore up the secondary for the final stretch of games. They were both missed, but Brisker especially, given his ability to be a disruptor all over the field. He’ll need to pick up where he left off against this Eagles team and defensive coordinator Alan Williams will have plays dialed up for him.
The Eagles offensive line has been outstanding this year, but they’re not immune to letting up sacks. According to TeamRankings.com, the Eagles have surrendered an average of 2.7 sacks per game over the last three weeks. Brisker, meanwhile, leads the Bears with three sacks on the season and the defense will want to get creative to shut Hurts down. Brisker will find pay dirt once again for his fourth sack of the year. | 2022-12-17T15:38:03Z | sports.yahoo.com | 4 bold predictions for Bears vs. Eagles | https://sports.yahoo.com/4-bold-predictions-bears-vs-150429385.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/4-bold-predictions-bears-vs-150429385.html?src=rss |
The Indianapolis Colts have four games remaining on the schedule entering Saturday, and they are essentially out of the playoff race coming out of the bye week.
While interim head coach Jeff Saturday stated the team is focused on winning now rather than evaluating for the future, the team still should put forth the effort to see what they have in some of their younger assets.
Forcing a player to see starting snaps would be an unrealistic scenario, but the Colts should at least begin rotating some of their younger, ascending talents into bigger roles.
With four games remaining, here are four Colts who should see more playing time during the final four games of the regular season:
Season snap share: 23.5%
There have been plenty of flashes from Woods this season that should have led to him carving out a bigger role. The most recent example was his breakout game in Week 12 against the Pittsburgh Steelers in which he recorded eight receptions on nine targets for 98 yards.
Despite the big jump in production, Woods followed that game up by playing just 21% of the snaps in Week 13 against the Dallas Cowboys. Jeff Saturday didn’t have an answer as to why Woods didn’t get more opportunities in that game following his breakout.
If this were a case where Woods was behind other tight ends who have been extremely productive, it would make sense. But starter Mo Alie-Cox has the same number of receptions (17) and fewer receiving yards (185) than Woods on the season.
The current regime used a third-round pick on Woods in hopes he could turn into a starting Y tight end. It’s time to see if he can handle that role.
It’s been a pretty odd rookie season for Cross. There was considerable hype throughout training camp and the preseason as he tore it up, showing off his elite athleticism and solid ball skills. After starting in Week 1, Cross was essentially benched for the remainder of the season on the defensive side of the ball.
Since playing a combined 116 snaps on defense during the first two games, Cross has seen a whopping total of just two defensive snaps in the 11 games to follow. It should be noted he has played 48% of the special teams snaps.
The Colts have gotten solid production from veteran Rodney McLeod and rookie seventh-round pick Rodney Thomas II, especially from the latter when Julian Blackmon missed time due to injury.
But Cross needs to be mixed in more. He’s still extremely young, just 21 years old, and he needs the experience of playing to further his development. Players with his athletic profile and ball skills don’t come around often so it would behoove the Colts to get the most out him over these final four games.
No rookie on the offensive side of the ball has seen more snaps than Pierce, and it’s still not enough. The second-round pick hit a massive lull during the month of November but showed in Week 13 just how much he can open up the offense by posting a career-high 86 yards and catching a touchdown.
It’s unlikely that the Colts will move Parris Campbell from his starting spot. He’s had a pretty solid season all things considered. But Pierce needs to be on the field more than what he’s been seeing. He’s the only consistent deep threat this offense has, and even though Matt Ryan is terrified of what might happen if a seven-step drop is called, the Colts have to continue developing their young wideouts.
There’s a chance Campbell finds a new home in free agency this offseason so getting Peirce and Michael Pittman Jr. on the field together as much as possible should be a priority.
Season snap share: 0%
This is a name Colts fans haven’t heard in a few months. A sixth-round pick out of Cincinnati, Brooks was labeled as a potential steal for the Colts in the 2022 NFL draft. He never really made any noise during training camp or the preseason so it made sense that the Colts have had him on the practice squad this whole time.
But Brooks was an intriguing prospect both from a production and athletic standpoint. Giving Brooks a bigger role doesn’t mean he sees 25% of the snaps every week, but some of the snaps that go to Byron Cowart, who has seen 18% of the defensive snaps, could go to Brooks.
Cowart’s impact and role aren’t large enough to keep the Colts from seeing if they may have a diamond in the rough when it comes to Brooks. It’s understandable that some rookies simply don’t develop at the same rate so this isn’t to say the Colts have been wrong to keep him on the practice squad.
But Brooks was intriguing enough as a prospect to warrant some extra snaps down the home stretch. | 2022-12-17T15:38:09Z | sports.yahoo.com | 4 Colts rookies who need more playing time during final four games | https://sports.yahoo.com/4-colts-rookies-more-playing-142351178.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/4-colts-rookies-more-playing-142351178.html?src=rss |
The Indianapolis Colts are roughly one month away from beginning the process of hiring a new head coach.
As Jeff Saturday has taken over as the interim head coach following the firing of Frank Reich, the Colts are obligated to go through the entire interview process, which includes following the Rooney Rule.
The latter is an aspect the Colts didn’t have to do when hiring an interim head coach.
In speaking to reporters this week, Irsay said that while Saturday is a candidate for the head coach vacancy, he expects a broader pool of candidates this offseason, which may or may not include some college names.
“I’m looking forward to the interview process,” Irsay said via ProFootballTalk. “I think Jeff’s a candidate but there’s a lot of great candidates out there. I think there’s a lot of great candidates in college. I think the pool needs to be broadened somewhat more. There’s some great college coaches that may be capable. There’s some unknown coaches that may be capable.”
Saturday has expressed his interest in returning as the full-time head coach after the season, and it’s likely he’ll be one of the first interviews the Colts conduct this offseason.
The most popular name from the college scene would be Michigan’s Jim Harbaugh, who has a strong history with the Colts. However, it isn’t clear if he wants to return to the NFL coaching sphere.
There will be a long list of names the Colts will consider, and that process should begin in just about one month’s time. | 2022-12-17T15:38:22Z | sports.yahoo.com | Colts’ Jim Irsay expects broad pool of HC candidates | https://sports.yahoo.com/colts-jim-irsay-expects-broad-143627694.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/colts-jim-irsay-expects-broad-143627694.html?src=rss |
Roob's Observations: How smart coaching boosted Miles Sanders' value originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia
How Doug Pederson and Nick Sirianni helped Miles Sanders become more valuable, the Eagles’ record pace on fourth down and Ben Hawkins’ forgotten brilliance.
It’s a Week 15 edition of Roob’s Random Eagles Observations!
1. One thing to keep in mind when weighing whether or not the Eagles should re-sign Miles Sanders is how smart both Doug Pederson and Nick Sirianni have been using him. Sanders has averaged 12.9 carries per game in his four NFL seasons, and while there have been times you'd like to see him get the ball more, when you see other elite backs start fading in their mid-to-late 20s, it makes sense. Sanders has the 10th-most rushing yards by active running backs in their first four seasons but only the 18th -most rushing attempts. He’s only had three games in his life with more than 20 carries and that on top of his limited playing time in college — he had just 276 carries in his entire college career — could really extend his career. In seven seasons since 2016, he’s had just 960 carries. Guys like Derrick Henry and Ezekiel Elliott have had over 1,600 during the same span. Sanders has shown absolutely no sign of slowing down. Doesn’t mean he won’t, but his value is definitely higher than other running backs coming off their rookie contracts because of how he’s been used. That will raise his price but also make him a safer signing than other backs with his experience. That’s also encouraging going into the postseason. So many running backs who are overused are useless down the stretch and in the postseason. Over the last month, Alvin Kamara is at 2.7 yards per carry, Saquon Barkley 2.9, Dameon Pierce 3.0, Dalvin Cook 3.3, Nick Chubb 3.5 and Derrick Henry 3.8. Sanders? He's averaged 5.9 yards per carry the last month — highest among all NFL running backs. You want your best players at their best when the games are the biggest, and it sure looks like the Eagles have that.
2. Jalen Hurts’ first 16 career starts: 58 percent accuracy, 210 passing yards per game, 18 TDs, 11 INTs, 82.1 passer rating. Hurts’ last 16 starts: 68 percent, 242 passing yards per game, 25 TDs, 4 INTs, 107.1 passer rating.
3. A lot of people have been wondering how Nick Sirianni will handle the last game or two of the season if the Eagles are able to clinch the No. 1 seed early. Everything he’s done since he got here points to resting his key guys as much as possible. Does that mean not playing them at all the last week or two? It just might. Think about some of the moves he’s made: No mandatory minicamp. Shorter training camp practices. Walkthroughs on Wednesdays. Rest days for veterans on Thursday and Friday. Reduced snaps for older players. His whole philosophy is based on keeping players off their feet as much as possible and reducing the chances for injuries. And 12-1 with a healthy roster says it obviously works. If the Eagles do clinch next weekend, they would have a month before they open play in the postseason. Is that too long to rest your starters? In 2004, the Eagles clinched with two weeks left. With the Eagles sitting at 13-1, Andy Reid barely played the starters the next week against the Rams and then didn’t play them at all against the Bengals, both lopsided losses. It was a big story in Philly that week — Will the Eagles be rusty? Was it too much time off? Will they lose the competitive edge? The answer was no then and it’s no now. They were up 21-7 on the Vikings early in the second quarter of the conference semifinal round game and rolled past the Vikings and Falcons to reach the Super Bowl. It’s all about getting to Jan. 21 or Jan. 22 as healthy as possible.
4. The Eagles have converted 76 percent of their fourth downs this year — 19 of 25. That’s the highest on record by a team attempting at least 25 fourth downs in a season — the NFL has tracked 3rd- and 4th-down conversions since 1984. We all know why the Eagles are so good on fourth down. Jalen Hurts is 12-for-13 on keepers on fourth down, and he’s 6-for-9 for 103 yards, two TDs, no INTs and a 144.9 passer rating when he throws on fourth down. Hurts’ 12 rushing first downs on fourth down are five more than anybody else. His six passing conversions are 5th-most in the league. Overall, Hurts has converted 18 fourth downs. Jacoby Brissett (12) and Trevor Lawrence (11) are the only other QBs with at least 10.
5. Ben Hawkins’ 1967 season has to be one of the most remarkable and underrated seasons in Eagles history. After catching just 14 passes as a rookie 3rd-round pick out of Arizona State in 1966, Hawkins blew up in 1967, with 59 catches for 1,265 yards (still 5th-most in Eagles history), 10 touchdowns and a ridiculous 21.4 average. Hawkins somehow didn’t make the Pro Bowl, but he led the NFL in yards, was 5th in yards per catch and 3rd in touchdowns. More than half a century later, his 90.4 yards per game figure remains a franchise record. T.O. averaged 109.0 in 2005 but only lasted seven games. Hawkins, who grew up five miles from where MetLife Stadium now stands, remains one of only 12 players in NFL history with 1,250 yards, 10 or more touchdowns and a 21 yards-per-catch average in a season. And he did it in 14 games. Hawkins never matched those numbers, but in six full seasons with the Eagles he averaged 751 yards and scored 32 TDs. In Eagles history, he ranks second to Tommy McDonald with 18.3 yards per catch and 50 years after he last played in the NFL, he’s still 11th in Eagles history in both receiving yards and TD catches. Hawkins played with some bad quarterbacks, was never on a playoff team, never made a Pro Bowl. But he had a terrific career here and his monster 1967 season shouldn’t be forgotten.
7. The first six weeks of the season, Britain Covey ranked 23rd out of 26 punt returners (averaging at least one return per game) at 6.1 yards per return. Over the last eight weeks, he ranks 4th at 13.6 yards per return.
8. For the Eagles to go 4-0 and average 426 yards and 35 points per game without Dallas Goedert speaks volumes about Shane Steichen’s ability to adjust and get the most out of his personnel. While Goedert was out, Quez Watkins got more involved in the offense — 14 catches and two TDs in the last four games — the backs got more involved in the passing game (10 yards per game with Goedert, 25 per game without him), and even tight ends Jack Stoll and Grant Calcaterra showed up with a respectable 10 catches for 109 yards in Goedert’s absence. In the four games the Eagles didn’t have Goedert, they had the No. 1 offense in the NFL, and Jalen Hurts had an NFL-best 111.8 passer rating. That’s an injury that would have derailed a lot of offenses, a lot of teams. The Eagles shrugged it off and just kept rolling. Now he’s back and they should be better than ever.
9. With six sacks against the Titans and seven against the Giants, the Eagles have put together consecutive games with six sacks for the first time since 1998, when they had six in a 17-12 win over Washington and six in a 13-10 loss to the Chargers. They’ve also got a streak of seven straight games with at least three sacks, and that’s their longest since a 10-game streak over the 1993 and 1994 seasons.
10. Every time the Eagles play in Chicago, I can’t help thinking back to the first Eagles playoff game I covered: The Fog Bowl, the Eagles' conference semifinal playoff game against the Bears on New Year’s Eve 1988. The fog rolled in off Lake Michigan just before halftime, and it was so hard to see from the press box, the NFL let the writers onto the field for the entire second half. And it’s easy to blame the Eagles’ 20-12 loss on the fog, but they weren’t going to win that game either way. The Bears were up 17-9 when the fog rolled in, and the Eagles squandered numerous scoring opportunities both before and after the thick blanket of fog engulfed the stadium. They had drives to the Bears’ 4, 11, 13, 24, 24 and 25-yard lines without scoring a touchdown before halftime and then drives to the 11, 16 and 17 after halftime without a TD. That’s an astounding nine drives down to the Chicago 25 or deeper without a touchdown (four field goals, one missed field goal, one unsuccessful fourth down and three interceptions). Plus two other drives to the 37 and 43 that resulted in punts. The Eagles moved the ball just fine between the 20's in the foggy second half — they had 174 yards, 139 passing yards and 11 first downs after halftime. They just couldn’t score, thanks to penalties, turnovers and mistakes. The fog is a convenient excuse but it’s not why they lost. | 2022-12-17T15:38:35Z | sports.yahoo.com | Eagles Observations: How smart coaching boosted Eagles' Miles Sanders' value | https://sports.yahoo.com/eagles-observations-smart-coaching-boosted-145500518.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/eagles-observations-smart-coaching-boosted-145500518.html?src=rss |
Our Eagles vs. Bears predictions for Week 15 of the NFL season originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia
Sure, maybe Justin Fields runs for a bunch of yards against the Eagles. It’s possible. But he’s really the only threat on that offense. He doesn’t have many weapons and the Eagles have been really good at stuffing the run recently. They just have to stay disciplined in their rush lanes on Sunday.
The Eagles have been dominant all season, but they really seem to be hitting their stride coming down the stretch. They’ve scored 35 or more points in three straight games and totaled nearly 1,500 combined yards of offense. The pass rush has been harassing quarterbacks at a league-leading rate and is up to an astounding 49 sacks on the season. Their star players are checking off milestones and the quarterback continues to play at an MVP level, no matter what Micah Parsons thinks.
So, is it the team? Is it the system? Is it Hurts?
Many Eagles fans have worried about trap games all season long (the Eagles are great and their schedule is weak) but so far the dreaded trap game hasn't appeared. I don't think fans really have to worry about this Eagles team overlooking an opponent: they're well-coached, they have too much talent, and they seem to be serious about their prep.
But if there were ever a week for a trap game, it'd be this week as a high-stakes Christmas Eve matchup against the Cowboys looms just beyond a road trip to Chicago.
Luckily for the Birds, this Bears team stinks - particularly on the defensive side of the ball. Chicago's defense ranks 30th in the league in EPA/play, has allowed a league-worst 21 rushing touchdowns, and its rush yards per attempt sits in the bottom-quartile of the NFL. Oh, and they allow the fourth-most points per game.
Offensively the Bears have a little more going for them. Justin Fields & Co. rank 16th in offensive EPA/play, a bang-average unit that has a little more juice than your normal mid-pack unit because of Fields' electricity as a dual-threat playmaker. Fields is a Top 10 rusher in the NFL as a dang quarterback, currently No. 8 in the league in yards ahead of names like Jonathan Taylor, Aaron Jones, and Jamaal Williams. That's wild!
The Eagles are coming off a week in which one of their main points of emphasis was limiting Daniel Jones' mobility - just ask Nick Sirianni's postgame speech to his team - and they'll want to focus on the same thing this week. If they can keep contain on Fields, the passing game is basically no threat at all. Khalil Herbert and David Montgomery represent an interesting challenge on the ground, but if the Eagles' offense can give Jonathan Gannon's guys some breathing room and force Chicago to play from behind things should be fine.
The Jacksonville Jaguars (5-8) get set to take on the Dallas Cowboys (10-3) in the team's biggest matchup of the season. | 2022-12-17T15:38:41Z | sports.yahoo.com | Our Eagles vs. Bears predictions for Week 15 of the NFL season | https://sports.yahoo.com/eagles-vs-bears-predictions-week-120000690.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/eagles-vs-bears-predictions-week-120000690.html?src=rss |
Former NFL wide receiver Brandon Marshall had a distinguished playing career. Marshall played 13 NFL seasons, made two All-Pro teams, six Pro Bowls and finished with 970 receptions and 83 receiving touchdowns.
Shortly after his retirement, Marshall joined the media, and much like his time as a player, he isn’t afraid to speak his mind.
Marshall is currently an analyst for Inside the NFL and was a guest this week on “Up & Adams” with Kay Adams of Fanduel TV.
Adams and Marshall discussed the San Francisco 49ers and if they were a Super Bowl contender with rookie Brock Purdy at quarterback.
“They’re not winning the Super Bowl; they’re contenders,” Marshall said of the 49ers. They’ll probably be in the NFC championship.”
Marshall then went on to discuss which other NFC teams he likes.
“I like the Philadelphia Eagles,” he said. “I like the Dallas Cowboys. Those three teams and I also like the Commanders. I think the Commanders could be the 2005 Pittsburgh Steelers. They’re at 7-5, and then all of a sudden they go into your place, Chicago, Soldier Field, they whoop up on the Bears, and then they go on this legendary run and then find themselves in the Super Bowl against the Seattle Seahawks. And they win the Super Bowl.”
After Marshall discussed the 2005 Bears, he quickly turned his attention back to the 2022 Commanders.
“I say that because there is always one dark horse every year,” Marshall said. “One team that we never thought would do it. The Cincinnati Bengals, did we think the Cincinnati Bengals would be in the Super Bowl last year? So in the NFC, those are the four teams that I like. I’m not saying the Commanders are as good as the other teams, but it’s about who’s going to get hot right now. The Dallas Cowboys, could this be the year? We’ve been talking about this for 25 years?”
Afterward, Adams joked with Marshall that she was just reveling in the clickbait that he gave her by saying the Commanders could win the Super Bowl.
Marshall is certainly right about one thing; it’s often about who gets hot at the right time. Can the Commanders stay hot through the remainder of the season into the playoffs? | 2022-12-17T15:38:47Z | sports.yahoo.com | Former NFL player and current analyst believes the Commanders are dark-horse Super Bowl contender | https://sports.yahoo.com/former-nfl-player-current-analyst-135549462.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/former-nfl-player-current-analyst-135549462.html?src=rss |
The New York Giants and Washington Commanders face off in Maryland on Sunday for the second time in three weeks.
The last matchup between the two teams ended in a tie, making this game even more important because the winner earns the head-to-head matchup that could determine which team makes the playoffs.
The Giants started out the season on a high note but have struggled the last several weeks and need to get back on track to keep their playoff hopes alive.
In order to do that, there are six keys to accomplish on Sunday to earn a win.
Must improve pass protection
Daniel Jones is the second-most sacked quarterback in the NFL behind Russell Wilson. He’s been sacked 41 times, an average of just over 3.0 sacks per game.
When the Giants and Commanders faced two weeks ago, Jones was sacked four times for 18 yards. This cannot happen if the Giants hope to win this week. Jones has to be protected so he can get the ball out and down the field.
It also means that Jones has to pay attention and know when to get rid of the ball, but that will be an easier feat for him if the line gives him the time he needs.
Don't get beat over the top
Last week, the Philadelphia Eagles burned the Giants over the top. The Commanders are not the same team, but Terry McLaurin and Curtis Samuel are very capable of making big plays. Limiting those plays is a major factor in the outcome of this game.
Set the edge
The Giants have not done well setting the edge lately. Some of that is due to personnel changes on the field because of injuries, but it should always be “next man up,” so it’s time for the guys on the field to nail it down.
Giants' edge rushers must create organic pressure
On top of setting the edge, the edge rushers must create organic pressure. The Giants have limited resources in the secondary, so they can’t afford to use the secondary when blitzing very often. This means the edge rushers have to do their part and pressure the quarterback.
It also means Dexter Lawrence and Leonard Williams must collapse the pocket from the inside.
Get Saquon going somehow
Saquon Barkley is an integral part of the Giants’ offense, but he’s stalled out lately and not produced as he did early in the season. Gary Brightwell showed up last week against the Eagles and did a nice job, but he’s not Barkley. Barkley has to find a way to get going this week and wear down the Commanders’ defense.
Early in the season, the Giants were creative and aggressive in their play calling, but that has tapered off as the season went on. The Giants’ struggles have grown as the play calling changed, so it’s time to get back to that early-season creativity and confidence.
After ‘reset,’ Zach Wilson ready to be Jets’ starting QB again
Zach Wilson, who will start for the Jets at QB for the injured Mike White, said he is excited to show what he's been working on during his three-week on the bench. | 2022-12-17T15:38:54Z | sports.yahoo.com | Giants vs. Commanders: 6 keys to victory in Week 15 | https://sports.yahoo.com/giants-vs-commanders-6-keys-135548867.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/giants-vs-commanders-6-keys-135548867.html?src=rss |
The 49ers’ win over the Seahawks greatly reduced their number of playoff scenarios. They’ve gone from being mathematically capable of landing at any of the seven seeds or missing the playoffs, to clinching a playoff berth and following no lower than the No. 3 seed.
San Francisco no longer needs to worry about wild card teams as competitors for playoff spots now that it’s been crowned the NFC West champion. They don’t even need to look down at the No. 4 seed Buccaneers since they own the head-to-head tiebreaker with them. The 49ers’ focus now is up.
Here are the two games that matter for the 49ers from a seeding perspective:
The 49ers are a half game behind the Vikings for the No. 2 seed, and a loss by Minnesota on Saturday morning would drop them to 10-4 and move the 49ers to the No. 2 spot since they own the tiebreaker. This game is slated to kick off at 10:00am Pacific Time on Saturday. | 2022-12-17T15:39:06Z | sports.yahoo.com | NFC Playoff Picture: 49ers focus down to 2 (but really 1) teams | https://sports.yahoo.com/nfc-playoff-picture-49ers-focus-150059318.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/nfc-playoff-picture-49ers-focus-150059318.html?src=rss |
ESPN NFL draft expert Mel Kiper has released his first edition of 2023 NFL draft rankings. Kiper’s top player is Georgia defensive tackle Jalen Carter. However, it is unlikely that Carter will end up as the top selection in the draft because this is an excellent quarterback class.
Does Georgia quarterback Stetson Bennett have a chance to be draft? Bennett has had an outstanding 2022 college football season.
The Houston Texans, who are projected to finish with the No. 1 pick, desperately need a quarterback. Who will be the first quarterback selected in the 2023 NFL draft?
Here’s how Mel Kiper ranks his top 10 quarterback for the NFL draft:
Kentucky quarterback Will Levis
2022 stats: 2,406 passing yards, 19 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions
Levis has excellent mobility and arm strength. However, his decision-making is often questioned.
Quarterback Bryce Young
2022 stats: 3,007 passing yards, 27 touchdowns, and five interceptions
Young always seems to deliver in the clutch for Alabama. The Crimson Tide star has excellent anticipation, but a smaller frame.
2022 stats: 3,340 passing yards, 37 passing touchdowns, and six interceptions
Stroud has great accuracy and has a lot of experience from the past two seasons. Stroud is not the fastest quarterback, but he still has decent mobility.
Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson
2022 stats: 2,549 passing yards, 17 passing touchdowns, and nine interceptions
Rushing stats: 103 carries for 654 yards and nine touchdowns
Florida’s Anthony Richardson, who has just 393 career passing attempts in college, does not have a ton of game experience. Richardson has elite physical traits.
LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels
Scott Clause-USA TODAY Sports
2022 stats: 2,774 passing yards, 16 passing touchdowns, and three interceptions
Rushing stats: 180 carries for 818 yards and 11 touchdowns
LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels did a good job of taking care of the football in 2022. Daniels, who has thrown for 1,094 career attempts, has a lot of college experience. Daniels could return to LSU for another season.
2022 stats: 3,135 passing yards, 27 passing touchdowns, and two interceptions
Hendon Hooker is a mobile and a good decision maker (five interceptions over the last two seasons). Unfortunately, Hooker tore his ACL, so there are questions if he will be healthy to start the 2023 NFL season.
BYU quarterback Jaren Hall
The 6-foot-1, 205-pound BYU quarterback does not have ideal height. Hall will be 25 years old at the time of the 2023 NFL draft.
Fresno State quarterback Jake Haener
Fresno State quarterback Jake Haener begin his career at Washington. Haener has completed 68.3% of passes throughout his college career.
Mel Kiper ranks Stetson Bennett as the No. 9 quarterback in the 2023 NFL draft. Does the No. 9 quarterback typically get drafted?
Nine quarterbacks were selected in the 2022 NFL draft. The ninth quarterback, Brock Purdy, was the final pick of the draft.
In the 2021 NFL draft, Ian Book was the ninth quarterback drafted. He was picked in the fourth round of the draft.
The 5-foot-11, 190-pound quarterback does not have ideal size or age (Bennett will be 25 years old at the time of the draft). However, Bennett is mobile and has good arm strength.
Stanford quarterback Tanner McKee
2022 stats: 2,947 passing yards, 13 passing touchdowns, and eight interceptions
Stanford quarterback Tanner McKee has great size. He has had some struggles in college, but still has a chance to be drafted. | 2022-12-17T15:39:19Z | sports.yahoo.com | NFL draft quarterback rankings: Where is Georgia’s Stetson Bennett? | https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-quarterback-rankings-where-143117332.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-quarterback-rankings-where-143117332.html?src=rss |
The New England Patriots will be going up against an elite receiver on Sunday in Davante Adams. Patriots head coach Bill Belichick has nothing but respect for the wideout, as his team gets ready to face the Las Vegas Raiders.
Adams has had success against New England in the past, catching 12 passes for 161 yards and a touchdown in two games against the organization. His most memorable effort came back in November 2014, when he caught six passes on 11 targets for 121 yards. He averaged 20.2 yards per reception and made life difficult for the New England defense.
The second meeting came in November 2018, when he caught six passes on nine targets for 40 yards and a touchdown. Although he was a bit quieter in that game, he was still able to find a way to make an impact.
Belichick and the Patriots got to see Adams up close at training camp. New England took part in joint practices with the Raiders, before the teams faced off in the preseason finale in August. The coach had nothing but respect when talking about the All-Pro receiver, as transcribed by NESN.com’s Dakota Randall.
“Good, really good,” said Belichick. “Really special to see him up close on the practice field. Obviously, saw him at Green Bay, that was his breakout game; got his career started there. But great ball skills, really smooth, very crafty runner. Slick. Good length. Does a real good job at changing speeds. He’s just a really hard guy to cover with elite ball skills and elite, I would say, intelligence and savviness — if that’s a word.”
New England will certainly have their work cut out for them, as they look to win their second game in a row. A victory on Sunday would certainly help boost their playoff chances.
When Sadie Sink’s brother attended the premiere of her new film “The Whale” in New York City, her older brother called her character, Ellie, a “dirtbag” based on her actions throughout the film. “He was challenging me, saying ‘your character is pure evil,” Sink tells Variety. “I was like, ‘no, you have to see it […] | 2022-12-17T15:39:25Z | sports.yahoo.com | Patriots coach Bill Belichick in awe of All-Pro wideout Davante Adams | https://sports.yahoo.com/patriots-coach-bill-belichick-awe-141931905.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/patriots-coach-bill-belichick-awe-141931905.html?src=rss |
If naming the NFL’s Most Valuable Player at the halfway point of a season was an actual thing, Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton might’ve been the pick back in 2018.
Vying for his second such honor, Newton had led his Panthers to a 6-2 mark by Week 9—having completed 67.3 percent of his throws for 1,893 yards, 15 touchdowns and four interceptions. And, as Cam had always done, he added another dimension on the ground—rushing for 342 yards and four more scores to that point.
But the beginning of the end for that impressive campaign came in Week 10, when this happened . . .
The Panthers have still never recovered from this moment when TJ watt sacked Cam Newton and injured his shoulder. Since this game the Panthers have gone 16-40 and used 7 different starting quarterbacks pic.twitter.com/VzZPMkXVq4
— Austin Vallejo (@ValleyJoe24) January 5, 2022
Now, look, that hit continues to sting Panthers fans (and its organization) to this day. But, even if it wasn’t the cleanest attempt at a sack, T.J. Watt probably wasn’t trying to permanently damage Newton’s shoulder.
So, for this week’s edition of “Player Prowl,” let’s bury the hatchet and put a spotlight on the NFL’s reigning Defensive Player of the Year.
If we could (hypothetically, of course) pick any Pittsburgh Steelers player to stick on the Panthers roster, it would undoubtedly be Watt. Because duh.
The four-time Pro Bowler and three-time First-team All-Pro would help create a lethal duo off the edge alongside Brian Burns and add to an already dynamic defense. Before this injury-stricken 2022 season, Watt tallied a ridiculous 72.0 sacks over 77 career games.
And although the return from his torn pectoral muscle hasn’t been the greatest comeback story yet—as he’s totaled just a sack and a half through five outings—the 28-year-old star is still, obviously, a player to keep an eye on this Sunday.
Did we get it right? Let us know . . . | 2022-12-17T15:39:32Z | sports.yahoo.com | Player Prowl: T.J. Watt could give Panthers another shot in the arm | https://sports.yahoo.com/player-prowl-t-j-watt-150010681.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/player-prowl-t-j-watt-150010681.html?src=rss |
The 2022 Heisman Trophy competition involved a number of noticeable plot points. One was that when Caleb Williams and C.J. Stroud faced the same opponent, one did noticeably better than the other.
C.J. Stroud did not play poorly against Notre Dame in Week 1, when Ohio State fended off Notre Dame, but he wasn’t spectacular, either.
Caleb Williams was spectacular.
Ohio State fans will make the very reasonable point that Stroud was going up against a Notre Dame team which had eight months to prepare for Ohio State’s offense. Notre Dame’s defense was healthy and had not been banged up by the rigors of a full college football season. Williams and the USC offense were able to establish continuity and rhythm by the time they met Notre Dame’s defense in Week 13.
Yes, Caleb Williams might have struggled more against Notre Dame if he played the Irish in Week 1.
Yet, the results were what they were. We can’t go by hypotheticals; we have to go by what we saw.
The moral of the story for Ohio State: Schedule Notre Dame in Week 2, not Week 1, so that the offense is more lubricated and the chances of your Heisman QB playing a great game go up.
We talked to Mark Rogers at The Voice of College Football: | 2022-12-17T16:56:30Z | sports.yahoo.com | How Caleb Williams separated himself from C.J. Stroud this season | https://sports.yahoo.com/caleb-williams-separated-himself-c-163112762.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/caleb-williams-separated-himself-c-163112762.html?src=rss |
The transfer portal season is heating up, and the USC Trojans are going to be a hot commodity once again.
Lincoln Riley came in last year and landed a ton of high-profile names, with Heisman Trophy winner Caleb Williams and Oregon star RB Travis Dye as a couple of them, not to mention Jordan Addison.
Before we continue with this story, let’s make one point clear: Pursuing a Mid-American Conference transfer might not seem like that big a deal. The MAC is not stuffed with high-end talent. However, you might remember that Central Michigan offensive lineman Eric Fisher was the No. 1 pick in the 2013 NFL Draft, and he is still in the league a decade later. He has had a very good career, and he’s a MAC product.
A conference doesn’t have to be 10 or 20 deep in talent. Just getting one key prospect from a smaller conference can change everything.
Now let’s continue with our story:
This year should be more of the same for USC in terms of raiding the transfer portal. The Trojans are wasting no time trying to add talent to the roster. This weekend, Western Michigan defensive standout Braden Fiske will be taking a visit to USC as the Trojans continue to shore up the defensive side of the ball (h/t TrojanSeij).
Former Western Michigan's Braden Fiske will visit USC this weekend.
One of the most sought after in the Portal. He had 148 tackles, 27.5 tackles for loss and 13.5 sacks across his career. 👀✌️ pic.twitter.com/r7TY4StlEQ
The Trojans already landed in the top three for Coastal Carolina transfer LB Josaiah Stewart, and they got good news when Shane Lee announced he would return to L.A. for his final year of college football.
Alex Grinch and Lincoln Riley need to prioritize getting help on defense, especially after a brutal ending to the season despite having one of the best offenses in college football, which included the Heisman Trophy winner at quarterback.
Fiske is a popular name in the portal, and he is fresh off as a visit to Florida State. In 2022, he finished the year with 57 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, and 4.5 sacks, so his presence in L.A. would be a tremendous addition.
Braden Fiske! 😤 pic.twitter.com/KyELzumt22
What we're learning about the deaths of CHP captain and her husband
Here's the latest on what we're learning about the deaths of a CHP captain and her husband and the arrest of another man, as of Dec. 15. | 2022-12-17T16:56:55Z | sports.yahoo.com | USC hosts coveted, high-value Western Michigan transfer Braden Fiske | https://sports.yahoo.com/usc-hosts-coveted-high-value-153502983.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/usc-hosts-coveted-high-value-153502983.html?src=rss |
JP drops politically correct answer on Dubs' lack of free throws originally appeared on NBC Sports Bayarea
The Warriors shot 13 free throws in their 118-106 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday night at Wells Fargo Center, while their opponents took a whopping 31 shots from the charity stripe.
Golden State's lack of free-throw attempts in their latest loss isn't new. It has been a trend all season as they came into the night averaging an NBA-worst 19.3 free-throw attempts per game.
While they aren't getting to the line a lot, they are making the ones they do take at a high clip, shooting 79.3 percent from the free-throw line, the 13th best in the NBA.
Jordan Poole, who went 5-of-6 from the free-throw line in the Warriors' loss, was asked about the team's lack of attempts this season.
"You asking the wrong person, bro," Poole told reporters in Philadelphia after the game. "You don't want to hear what I got to say. We just got to play through it. That's the politically correct answer. We got to play through it."
Poole likely bit his tongue because an honest answer might warrant a monetary penalty from the NBA.
Poole (92.5) edged out teammate Steph Curry (92.3) for the free-throw percentage title last season, but this season, Poole is shooting just 85.9 percent after Friday's game.
Poole recently spoke to NBC Sports Bay Area's Kerith Burke about his free-throw shooting and credited his mom for motivating him to be better.
In the case of the Warriors, there's not much Poole's mom can do to help them. Last year, they only took 20.3 per game, which was the fifth lowest total in the NBA. It's an ongoing problem.
RELATED: Curry, Kerr share advice to Poole with Steph out
Despite having two of the NBA's best free-throw shooters on the team, the Warriors simply can't get to the line enough, and it's a topic Poole isn't interested in answering honestly. | 2022-12-17T17:00:58Z | sports.yahoo.com | Jordan Poole drops politically correct answer on Warriors' lack of free throws | https://sports.yahoo.com/jordan-poole-drops-politically-correct-045022638.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/jordan-poole-drops-politically-correct-045022638.html?src=rss |
ESPN’s Todd McShay released a mock draft this week and had the New York Giants selecting wide receiver Jordan Addison out of USC with their first-round pick.
Currently, with four games remaining this season, the Giants are slated to pick 23rd overall. With the season winding down, mock drafts will be released more frequently in the coming months.
The 2023 NFL scouting combine will take place from Feb. 28 through March 6 in Indianapolis.
Round 1 of the 2023 NFL draft begins at 8 p.m. Eastern time on Thursday, April 27. Rounds 2-3 will unfold at 7 p.m. Eastern on Friday, April 28, and Rounds 4-7 will occur at 12 p.m. Eastern on Saturday, April 29. The draft broadcast runs throughout the weekend on both ESPN and NFL Network. | 2022-12-17T17:09:27Z | sports.yahoo.com | 2023 NFL draft: USC WR Jordan Addison featured in early Todd McShay mock | https://sports.yahoo.com/2023-nfl-draft-usc-wr-160540417.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/2023-nfl-draft-usc-wr-160540417.html?src=rss |
The Miami Dolphins will take on the Buffalo Bills on Saturday night at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, New York.
This prime-time matchup means fans of the aqua and orange will have an opportunity to watch a number of games on Sunday without having to keep an eye on their own squad.
Joe Burrow and company are currently the fifth seed in the AFC playoff picture with a 9-4 record, just one game better than the Dolphins. A loss to an NFC team could allow Miami to take the spot if they win or stay a game back with a loss.
Bill Belichick’s team was victorious over the Arizona Cardinals on Monday night to put them into the final playoff spot, for the moment. Facing off against Josh McDaniel, who beat the Patriots as the head coach of the Denver Broncos back in 2009, there’s no guarantee that New England secures an eighth victory in Week 15. A loss could help Miami hold their second spot in the AFC East.
While these teams have the same record, the Titans are leading their division, meaning they’d be hosting a playoff game if the season ended today. The Chargers, on the other hand, are just on the outside of the playoffs due to tiebreakers with the Patriots. If they were to win and Miami were to lose, the Dolphins could slip down to seventh place or even outside of the postseason.
The Jets are the fourth team in the AFC, and even they’re looking at a potential playoff birth. Having the same record as the Chargers and Patriots has them as the ninth seed in a playoff format that only allows seven teams in, but a win and a loss by the teams ahead of them could grant them passage on a ship called the postseason. Miami has to be hoping for Detroit to continue proving themselves.
Aaron Williams 'Legend of the Game' for #Bills vs. #Dolphins: | 2022-12-17T17:10:18Z | sports.yahoo.com | What Dolphins fans should be watching after Saturday night vs. Bills | https://sports.yahoo.com/dolphins-fans-watching-saturday-night-160044605.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/dolphins-fans-watching-saturday-night-160044605.html?src=rss |
Lakers forward Anthony Davis dunks during the first half against the Denver Nuggets at Crypto.com Arena on Friday night. Davis didn't play in the second half of the Lakers' 126-108 win after sustaining a foot injury. (Ashley Landis / Associated Press)
Luka Modric led Croatia to third place in what was likely the midfield great’s last appearance at the World Cup. The runners-up from four years ago secured another medal by beating Morocco 2-1 in the third-place match on Saturday. Mislav Orsic scored the decisive goal shortly before halftime at Khalifa International Stadium to ensure Modric finished on a winning note, if this does turn out to be his last World Cup match.
USC star Caleb Williams discussed life as a Heisman Trophy winner and talked about the now-viral Gucci Adidas jacket he wore to the award show. | 2022-12-17T18:32:10Z | sports.yahoo.com | Anthony Davis suffers foot injury in impressive Lakers win over Nuggets | https://sports.yahoo.com/anthony-davis-exits-early-lakers-045807410.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/anthony-davis-exits-early-lakers-045807410.html?src=rss |
Bryant wears a bracelet featuring the words "Never Give Up." He said it’s the favorite catchphrase of his father, Edward. It’s also the philosophy that guided Bryant through his knee rehabilitation and again through thumb surgery in October, a few months after the Lakers signed him to a one-year deal as a free agent.
“Thomas, my hat's off to him. He's a pro's pro,” coach Darvin Ham said. “Keeps himself ready, keeps himself right. That's why we have play groups, stay-ready groups for guys — low-minute or no-minute guys — to continue to stay sharp. And he did that.
Bryant wouldn't give up. It's up to the Lakers to show the same faith and determination.
Russell Westbrook with a 2-pointer vs the Denver Nuggets
Russell Westbrook (Los Angeles Lakers) with a 2-pointer vs the Denver Nuggets, 12/16/2022 | 2022-12-17T18:32:29Z | sports.yahoo.com | Elliott: With Anthony Davis injured, Lakers need to show same determination as Thomas Bryant | https://sports.yahoo.com/elliott-anthony-davis-injured-lakers-164633508.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/elliott-anthony-davis-injured-lakers-164633508.html?src=rss |
Former Alabama offensive lineman Lester Cotton was waived by the Las Vegas Raiders. Cotton spent nearly four seasons with the organization after going undrafted in 2019.
He was a three-year starter at the guard position for the Crimson Tide. He saw the most playing time in 2017. Cotton started in 13 games and was listed as a finalist for the Joe Moore Award.
After spending his entire NFL career with the Raiders organization, Cotton will now look to continue playing elsewhere.
Cotton isn’t the first former Alabama lineman to be waived by the Raiders. Earlier this season, Alex Leatherwood, a former first-round selection by the team was waived and ultimately claimed by the Chicago Bears.
Roll Tide Wire will continue to follow Cotton’s professional career as well as former Alabama players in the NFL.
Jets Injury Tracker: New York announces final injury report; Mike White, Corey Davis, Brandin Echols out
The Patriots’ depth at running back is going to be tested with Sunday’s game against the Raiders. New England announced on Saturday that Damien Harris has been downgraded to out with his thigh injury. Harris was a limited participant for all three days of the practice week. After playing the Cardinals on Monday night, the [more] | 2022-12-17T18:41:24Z | sports.yahoo.com | Former Alabama OL waived by Las Vegas Raiders | https://sports.yahoo.com/former-alabama-ol-waived-las-172402715.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/former-alabama-ol-waived-las-172402715.html?src=rss |
The New York Giants (7-5-1) will play the Washington Commanders (7-5-1) for a Week 15 divisional matchup this Sunday at FedEx Field.
Here are three reasons for optimism entering Sunday night.
Daniel Jones has been the answer for the Giants against Washington since coming into the league. In six games against the Commanders, the Duke product has posted a 4-1-1 record with 1,350 passing yards, 10 touchdowns, and a 101.5 passer rating. The only loss in the series was a one-point defeat last season.
Jones has been clutch all season (five game-winning drives) and this is the perfect game for him to show out again.
Divisional history
While the Giants have historically performed subpar against the rest of their division, Washington is the one team that Big Blue seems to have somewhat figured out.
New York has a 104-70-5 record all-time against the Commanders. In recent history, the Giants are 5-2-1 in their last eight games against Washington and have won many of these games by a large margin. If history continues on Sunday, New York will have picked up a big win against a bitter rival.
This feels like a playoff game for the Giants as they are tied with Washington with only four games left in the season. A loss here would be devastating for New York’s playoff chances and a win would give Big Blue the cushion they needed.
The Giants have not had a season above .500 or a playoff trip since 2016 and this can all change with a win on Sunday. The majority of players on this roster have never even been part of a winning team or have made the playoffs. It has developed a hunger in this locker room and that can be unleashed on Sunday Night Football for the Giants’ biggest game of the year. | 2022-12-17T18:41:30Z | sports.yahoo.com | Giants vs. Commanders: 3 reasons for optimism in Week 15 | https://sports.yahoo.com/giants-vs-commanders-3-reasons-175500765.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/giants-vs-commanders-3-reasons-175500765.html?src=rss |
The Deion Sanders era is coming to an end at Jackson State on Saturday with the Tigers’ Celebration Bowl duel with North Carolina Central on Saturday.
Sanders is heading to the University of Colorado once the game concludes.
He addressed his players for a final time before they took the field in Atlanta and was quite emotional. | 2022-12-17T18:49:41Z | sports.yahoo.com | Deion Sanders delivers emotional speech before Jackson State’s bowl game | https://sports.yahoo.com/deion-sanders-delivers-emotional-speech-175118405.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/deion-sanders-delivers-emotional-speech-175118405.html?src=rss |
While endless drama currently surrounds the Oregon Ducks and the quarterback position, specifically, when it comes to 5-star QB Dante Moore and his potential flip to UCLA, a new answer might have just become available.
This is an interesting thing to note for Oregon, with Raiola considering the Ducks before committing to Ohio State. According to Raiola’s father, “everything is back on the table,” per 247Sports’ Steve Wilftong.
Does that mean that they will get him? Who knows.
If you are frustrated by all of these twists and turns that the recruiting world has taken over the past week for the Ducks, I understand, and I share that feeling. Recruiting is about selling the future, and getting players with high potential to come to your school. They often will make a decision and then change their minds down the road. That’s the name of the game any more, with other schools offering more money or better situations. We will see how things shake out with Moore, and we will see if things ramp up in the chase for Raiola. If you want to ignore it all, be my guest. If you want to try and find some hope, though, and see a bright future for the Ducks, one just opened up his recruitment and could be on the horizon for Oregon.
Dylan Raiola’s Recruiting Profile
Commits to Ohio State on May 9, 2022
Decommits from Ohio State on December 17, 2022 | 2022-12-17T18:49:44Z | sports.yahoo.com | No. 1 QB in 2024 Dylan Raiola decommits from Ohio State; Ducks potential contenders | https://sports.yahoo.com/no-1-qb-2024-dylan-181019949.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/no-1-qb-2024-dylan-181019949.html?src=rss |
The Chicago Bears will host the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday. Chicago is on a six-game losing streak, and Philadelphia has lost just one game this season.
No one is expecting the three-win Bears to upset the 12-1 Eagles this Sunday. However, even though the talent pool is lopsided in favor of Philadelphia, Bears fans still have multiple reasons to pay attention to this matchup.
Here are three reasons to be optimistic as Chicago takes on the Eagles in Week 15.
Potential for defensive playmakers
Let’s call a spade a spade — the Bears defense is bad. They are allowing the third most points in the NFL, and have only 15 takeaways on the year. So what about this is cause for optimism? They are playing with house money. No one expects this unit to slow down the explosive Eagles offense. Young stars they are building around, such as Jaquan Brisker and Kyler Gordon, could use this as an opportunity to have statement games if they can keep the likes of A.J. Brown and Devonta Smith in check.
Justin Fields’ development
The Bears may not have anything to play for in terms of playoff aspirations, but every game is another opportunity for Justin Fields to continue to improve. Going up against an Eagles team with the best record in the league is just another chance for the second-year quarterback to show his progress, while also being tested and adjusting throughout the game. This is an Eagles team that leads the league in takeaways. Can Fields protect the ball from their pesky secondary? And can the Bears offensive line keep the young star clean against Philadelphia’s front seven? All of these factors will be fun to pay attention to, and a really good test for Fields, and the team as a whole.
A young QB duel
Jalen Hurts and Justin Fields have a lot in common, and we very well could see Fields follow in the footsteps of his quarterback counterpart. Hurts struggled with accuracy and consistency through all of 2021, but his legs helped the Eagles offense stay relevant and put them in the playoffs. This season, with added weapons and an offseason full of work, Hurts’ arm has taken a step forward, while his legs are still a major factor in what the Eagles do. If all goes well, Fields and the Bears can follow that blueprint. His 711 rushing yards in his last seven games are the most in that span in NFL history. His arm is getting better, as is his decision making. We could witness a matchup between a quarterback who is the odds-on favorite for MVP, and a quarterback who could find his way into that conversation in the future. | 2022-12-17T20:12:23Z | sports.yahoo.com | 3 reasons for optimism as the Bears face the Eagles in Week 15 | https://sports.yahoo.com/3-reasons-optimism-bears-face-183058605.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/3-reasons-optimism-bears-face-183058605.html?src=rss |
Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor suffered an ankle injury during the first quarter of Saturday’s game against the Minnesota Vikings and was ruled out for the remainder of the game.
Taylor suffered the ankle injury after catching a screen pass on the second offensive play of the game. He took the pass for 13 yards but his ankle was rolled on when he was tackled.
Taylor was tended to on the sideline, then went to the blue tent and then to the locker room all before being ruled out by the end of the first quarter.
Jonathan Taylor (ankle) is OUT for the rest of the game. #Colts
It has been a frustrating season for Taylor, who has been dealing with a nagging ankle injury for the majority of the campaign.
With Taylor out, the Colts will lean on Deon Jackson and Zack Moss out of the backfield. | 2022-12-17T20:12:42Z | sports.yahoo.com | Colts RB Jonathan Taylor won’t return with ankle injury | https://sports.yahoo.com/colts-rb-jonathan-taylor-won-184725783.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/colts-rb-jonathan-taylor-won-184725783.html?src=rss |
Talk about a mismatch, in the unexpected form.
The Indianapolis Colts were in the process of dismantling the first-place Minnesota Vikings of the NFC North on Saturday.
Kirk Cousins was having a brutal day and it continued in the second quarter when he threw a pass that was picked by Julian Blackmon, who returned it 17 yards for a touchdown.
The game was in the second quarter and the PAT gave the Colts a 30-0 lead over Minnesota.
Best first half performance by a defense ever?
💪 blocked punt TD
💪 forced fumble + recovery
💪 two turnover on downs
💪 3 and out
📱: Stream on NFL+ https://t.co/NLM9jA4M2R pic.twitter.com/j5GCjfNocH
A car barreled through an Italian restaurant in Texas during the dinner rush, and the actions of a waitress helped save a boy from being struck.
A U.S.-French satellite that will map almost all of the world’s oceans, lakes and rivers rocketed into orbit Friday. The predawn launch aboard a SpaceX rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California capped a highly successful year for NASA. Nicknamed SWOT — short for Surface Water and Ocean Topography — the satellite is needed more than ever as climate change worsens droughts, flooding and coastal erosion, according to scientists.
The comedy series “Blockbuster” has been canceled after just one season at Netflix. The 10-episode series launched its one and only season on November 3. The show was a single-camera workplace comedy about the employees of the last Blockbuster Video in the world. The series starred Randall Park, Melissa Fumero, Olga Merediz, Tyler Alvarez, Madeleine […]
FTX Bankruptcy Update; Co-Founder of OneCoin Pyramid Scheme Pleads Guilty
A judge ruled that media companies including the New York Times and Bloomberg will be allowed to formally plead for FTX to publish the full list of as many as a million of its creditors. Plus, Karl Sebastian Greenwood, co-founder of the OneCoin pyramid scheme, pleaded guilty to conspiracy and wire fraud. | 2022-12-17T20:13:20Z | sports.yahoo.com | Julian Blackmon’s pick-six has Colts crushing Vikings, 30-0 | https://sports.yahoo.com/julian-blackmon-pick-six-colts-192358164.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/julian-blackmon-pick-six-colts-192358164.html?src=rss |
It could be another rookie showcase for the New England Patriots at the running back position with Damien Harris now officially ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Las Vegas Raiders.
Harris has been working his way back from the thigh injury he suffered back on Thanksgiving Day in the Patriots’ Thursday night game against the Minnesota Vikings. With Rhamondre Stevenson currently listed as questionable to play in Week 15, the team could be forced to lean on the first-year duo of Pierre Strong Jr. and Kevin Harris to lead the offensive backfield.
Kevin Harris is a powerful runner with the ball in his hands and a legitimate sledgehammer on the ground, which he was able to show off in multiple angry runs against the Arizona Cardinals.
Meanwhile, Strong gives the Patriots a nice change-of-pace option with receiving abilities and tremendous straight line speed. The duo combined for 96 yards and two touchdowns against the Cardinals.
So although it isn’t ideal for the Patriots to possibly be missing both Stevenson and Damien Harris on the field, the two rookies have already shown they’re ready and willing to handle the workload.
StringSource of Cincinnati performs Taylor Swift at a candlelight concert on Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2022. | 2022-12-17T20:13:56Z | sports.yahoo.com | Patriots update Damien Harris’ status ahead of Raiders game | https://sports.yahoo.com/patriots-damien-harris-status-ahead-184500185.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/patriots-damien-harris-status-ahead-184500185.html?src=rss |
Coming out of a disappointing 34-23 loss to the Detroit Lions, the Minnesota Vikings had hoped to come out with a bang and set the tone.
Unfortunately, the Colts have taken it to them to start the game.
They got a 49-yard kick return to start the game by Dallis Flowers but were able to hold the Colts to a field goal. It was once the Vikings got the ball that things got worse.
On their first drive, the Vikings went four and out and the ensuing Ryan Wright punt was blocked by former Viking Ifeadi Odenigbo blocked it and it was returned by JoJo Domann for a touchdown.
After going down 10-0, Dalvin Cook busted out a long run on a misdirection pitch that they have run multiple times for touchdowns and fumbled the ball away on the ensuing play. That led to a Colts touchdown and a 17-0 lead.
To top it all off, they failed to convert a fourth down inside their own 35-yard line, leading to the second chorus of boos from the home crowd.
The last time the Vikings hosted the Colts, they got whipped in similar fashion 34-6 and it felt incredibly similar.
The Vikings are playing atrocious football and they better find a way to figure it out. | 2022-12-17T20:14:21Z | sports.yahoo.com | Vikings have disastrous start vs. Colts, losing 17-0 in first quarter | https://sports.yahoo.com/vikings-disastrous-start-vs-colts-184101542.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/vikings-disastrous-start-vs-colts-184101542.html?src=rss |
The rout is on.
The Indianapolis Colts extended their lead to 30-0 over the Minnesota Vikings during the second quarter when safety Julian Blackmon found himself in the perfect spot to intercept a pass from Kirk Cousins.
It was a short trip to the end zone after that as Blackmon took the interception 17 yards to the house for a pick-six, the first of his career.
The touchdown continued the shocking narrative that is developing Saturday at U.S. Bank Stadium as the Colts have now scored the second-most points in a game this season. | 2022-12-17T20:14:34Z | sports.yahoo.com | WATCH: Colts’ Julian Blackmon grabs pick-six vs. Vikings | https://sports.yahoo.com/watch-colts-julian-blackmon-grabs-193207753.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/watch-colts-julian-blackmon-grabs-193207753.html?src=rss |
The special teams unit for the Indianapolis Colts continues to be one of the few bright spots in what has turned into a lost season.
Bubba Ventrone’s unit has a knack for making big plays and that continued Saturday on the national stage. After the defense got a quick stop on their opening drive, defensive end Ifeadi Odenigbo blocked a punt.
Undrafted rookie linebacker JoJo Domann recovered it and took it 24 yards for a touchdown to give the Colts a 10-0 lead halfway through the first quarter. | 2022-12-17T20:14:40Z | sports.yahoo.com | WATCH: Colts return blocked punt for TD vs. Vikings | https://sports.yahoo.com/watch-colts-return-blocked-punt-183636319.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/watch-colts-return-blocked-punt-183636319.html?src=rss |
Mitch Trubisky will start for the Pittsburgh Steelers once again.
Trubisky will replace Kenny Pickett on Sunday for the Steelers’ game against the Carolina Panthers, the team announced on Saturday.
Pickett went down with a concussion last week, and is still in protocols. He was officially downgraded to out for Sunday's game.
Coach Mike Tomlin declined to name a starter all week, and Trubisky split first-team reps with fellow backup Mason Rudolph in practices.
"I'm looking forward to the opportunity," Trubisky said Friday, via ESPN’s Brooke Pryor. "I'll be ready to go. I feel like I had a good week of practice. I'm ready to bounce back. Mindset is ready to go. We'll take care of the football, we'll move it and be smart, making decisions, and if all guys just do their job, play together, feel good about this week."
Trubisky started the season for the Steelers, though he lasted just four games before they replaced him with Pickett. The former No. 2 overall pick for the Chicago Bears has 1,073 passing yards, four touchdowns and five interceptions this season, his sixth in the league.
Three of those interceptions came last week against the Baltimore Ravens, where he replaced Pickett early in the 16-14 loss. Two of those picks came on consecutive drives after he led the Steelers into scoring position, too.
"Just gotta make a better decisions, just gotta protect the football," Trubisky said, via ESPN. "Made some really good throws out there. We moved the ball up and down the field, but obviously I gotta take care of the football, especially down in the red zone so we can come away with points. I'm looking forward to bouncing back this week and getting that opportunity."
The Steelers enter Sunday’s game in Charlotte having won three of their last five, though their chances of making the playoffs have all but been eliminated.
Kenny Pickett replaced Mitch Trubisky as the Steelers starting quarterback four games into the season. (Joe Sargent/Getty Images)
Steelers wil be eliminated from playoff contention with loss to Panthers | 2022-12-17T21:35:18Z | sports.yahoo.com | Mitch Trubisky to start for Steelers vs. Panthers with Kenny Pickett out in concussion protocol | https://sports.yahoo.com/mitch-trubisky-to-start-for-steelers-vs-panthers-with-kenny-pickett-out-in-concussion-protocol-204821633.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/mitch-trubisky-to-start-for-steelers-vs-panthers-with-kenny-pickett-out-in-concussion-protocol-204821633.html?src=rss |
The Miami Dolphins are set to take on the Buffalo Bills on Saturday night at Highmark Stadium in a game that could result in Buffalo winning another AFC East title.
Ahead of the game, Miami elevated rookie wide receiver Braylon Sanders to the active roster. With River Cracraft doubtful due to a calf injury that he suffered during practice last week, the move makes sense.
This is Sanders’ second elevation on the season, meaning he can’t play again this season unless he’s signed to the active roster.
Sanders’ first appearance in 2022 saw him play 14 offensive snaps against the Detroit Lions in Week 8, recording two receptions for 17 yards. Unfortunately, he also lost a fumble during the game.
Jaylen Waddle and Tyreek Hill have also dealt with injuries in recent weeks, so depending on how the game is going, Sanders may get more opportunities. | 2022-12-17T21:44:07Z | sports.yahoo.com | Dolphins elevate WR Braylon Sanders for Bills game | https://sports.yahoo.com/dolphins-elevate-wr-braylon-sanders-211225149.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/dolphins-elevate-wr-braylon-sanders-211225149.html?src=rss |
The Eagles announced two practice squad elevations for Sunday’s game, promoting linebacker Christian Elliss and veteran punter Brett Kern.
The most important move was Dallas Goedert being held out another week as the team looks ahead to Christmas Eve at the Cowboys. Goedert will now have missed over a month since his injury, and Philadelphia will look to Jack Stoll and Grant Calcaterra against Chicago.
• Punter Brett Kern, the three-time Pro Bowl selection, will make his Eagles debut. Kern will also serve as the holder for kicker Jake Elliott.
Elliss will make his third appearance this season. He has four special teams tackles in the wins over the Titans and Giants.
A three-time Pro Bowl selection, Kern will make his Eagles debut on Sunday.
Kern will also serve as the holder for kicker Jake Elliott.
The Bears have elevated Nsimba Webster and Jake Tonges from the practice squad to the active roster.
Webster has spent most of the last two seasons on the Bears practice squad after being claimed off waivers from the 49ers. He appeared in six games last season, all as a reserve. He played one snap on offense and 59 on special teams, returning four punts for 13 yards.
Tonges signed with the Bears this year as an undrafted free agent from California. He has appeared in three games as a rookie, all as a reserve, playing 16 snaps on offense and four on special teams. | 2022-12-17T21:44:13Z | sports.yahoo.com | Eagles elevate linebacker Christian Elliss and punter Brett Kern for matchup at Bears | https://sports.yahoo.com/eagles-elevate-linebacker-christian-elliss-212700880.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/eagles-elevate-linebacker-christian-elliss-212700880.html?src=rss |
Days after a career day in a win over the Tennessee Titans, tight end Evan Engram is thinking about his future with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Engram, 28, joined the Jaguars in the offseason on a one-year, $9 million contract and he likes the idea of signing another deal to stay with the team.
“I would like to be back,” Engram told ESPN’s Michael DiRocco this week. “… I’ve grown a lot in this year, on and off the field, and give credit to God for that, for putting the right people in my life, putting me in the right situations, the right place. It’s been a blast.”
After a 162-yard, two-touchdown day against the Titans, Engram now has 548 yards and four touchdowns this season. During a five-year run with the New York Giants, his best season was his rookie year when he finished with 722 yards and six touchdowns.
For now, the Jaguars don’t have much cap space to work with in the 2023 offseason, as the team is currently projected to be about $4.5 million over the cap. However, there are several potential moves to make that’d open up space (like cutting Shaquill Griffin to clear $13.5 million).
Tight end has long been a position of need for the Jaguars and it could be a spot that the team addresses in the 2023 NFL Draft. But keeping Engram could also be a top priority for the team as it continues to stockpile weapons around quarterback Trevor Lawrence. | 2022-12-17T21:44:32Z | sports.yahoo.com | Evan Engram: ‘I would like to be back’ with Jaguars in 2023 | https://sports.yahoo.com/evan-engram-back-jaguars-2023-211726333.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/evan-engram-back-jaguars-2023-211726333.html?src=rss |
The Atlanta Falcons have their starting left guard back just in time for Sunday’s game against the New Orleans Saints. Elijah Wilkinson was activated from the injured reserve list on Saturday, giving the team fully healthy offensive line for the first time in weeks.
Wilkinson last played during the team’s Week 8 win over the Carolina Panthers. There will be a different quarterback lining up behind Wilkinson, however, with Falcons rookie Desmond Ridder set to make his first NFL start in Week 15.
Ridder was named the starter by head coach Arthur Smith on Monday. The rookie will replace a struggling Marcus Mariota, who was placed on injured reserve with a knee injury after being benched.
Wilkinson is essentially taking Mariota’s spot on Atlanta’s 53-man roster. The Falcons are 4.5-point underdogs entering Sunday’s game in New Orleans.
Falcons updated 53-man roster entering Week 15
Falcons vs. Saints: Injury report for Week 15 matchup | 2022-12-17T21:44:38Z | sports.yahoo.com | Falcons activate LG Elijah Wilkinson from injured reserve | https://sports.yahoo.com/falcons-activate-lg-elijah-wilkinson-212030488.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/falcons-activate-lg-elijah-wilkinson-212030488.html?src=rss |
The Minnesota Vikings came back from a 33-0 halftime deficit to tie the Indianapolis Colts on Saturday at 36 with more than two minutes remaining in the fourth quarter.
The Colts have given up 55 points in their last two fourth quarters if you add in the 33 they allowed to the Dallas Cowboys in Week 13.
The play that tied the game at 36 was a short pass to Dalvin Cook, who did the rest with a brilliant run to paydirt.
The score came after Indy failed to convert a fourth and short on a quarterback sneak by Matt Ryan. | 2022-12-17T21:44:51Z | sports.yahoo.com | Once down 33-0, Vikings tie Colts on 64-yard TD pass to Dalvin Cook | https://sports.yahoo.com/once-down-33-0-vikings-212717793.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/once-down-33-0-vikings-212717793.html?src=rss |
C Erik McCoy activated from injured reserve
McCoy has been activated from injured reserve after being designated to return earlier this week, bringing the Saints’ starting center back into the lineup. He should provide a big boost to the offense after being sidelined by a calf injury.
LB Chase Hansen activated from injured reserve
Hansen was also designated to return this week, and he’ll have some opportunities to put plays on tape in the kicking game down the stretch. He’s been out of action with a knee injury.
LB Zack Baun designated to injured reserve
Baun exited the Tampa Bay Buccaneers game two weeks ago with an ankle injury, and now his season is likely over. It’s a tough break for a player who has been competing for snaps at a deep position group.
LB Nephi Sewell waived from the 53-man roster
Sewell was brought up from the practice squad in the wake of Hansen’s injury, and now that Hansen is returning there’s no room for him on the 53-man roster. The rookie has impressed covering punts and kickoffs and should return to the Saints practice squad if he clears waivers.
WR Kirk Merritt elevated from the Saints practice squad
Merritt was brought up for the Saints’ last game, making this his second appearance this season. He’s got experience at both receiver and running back and could help the Saints in a couple of different roles on offense and special teams. He’ll be eligible for one more single-game elevation. After that, the Saints must sign him to their 53-man roster for him to continue playing. | 2022-12-17T21:45:04Z | sports.yahoo.com | Saints file a series of roster moves before kickoff vs. Falcons in Week 15 | https://sports.yahoo.com/saints-file-series-roster-moves-213114544.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/saints-file-series-roster-moves-213114544.html?src=rss |
The Pittsburgh Steelers have been holding onto the slimmest of playoff hopes for the better part of a month. But that could soon be coming to an end. This weekend the Steelers take on the Carolina Panthers and a loss by the Steelers would mathematically eliminate them from playoff contention.
Season one of life after Ben Roethlisberger has been a forgettable one. It is almost invertible that head coach Mike Tomlin will suffer his first season below .500 and all three phases seem to have felt the loss of No. 7.
Pittsburgh finishes the season on the road against the Panthers, followed by a Christmas Eve home game against the Las Vegas Raiders and finally back-to-back AFC North games against the Baltimore Ravens and Cleveland Browns.
Let us know in the comments what you think the Steelers final record will be.
A Pittsburgh church is dealing with an act of vandalism just days before Christmas. | 2022-12-17T21:45:17Z | sports.yahoo.com | Steelers will be eliminated from playoff contention with loss to Panthers | https://sports.yahoo.com/steelers-wil-eliminated-playoff-contention-201744318.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/steelers-wil-eliminated-playoff-contention-201744318.html?src=rss |
With 3:28 left in Saturday’s game between the Minnesota Vikings and the Indianapolis Colts, Indy running back Zack Moss clearly fumbled at his own 38-yard line. Vikings cornerback Chandon Sullivan picked the ball up, and appeared to score a return touchdown. As the score was 36-28 Colts, that touchdown would have given the Vikings a decent chance at the largest comeback in NFL history, as they were once down 33-0 late in the first half.
However, the officiating crew, led by referee Tra Blake, made a major mistake in whistling the play dead early. The original ruling was that the ball was down by contact, which it obviously wasn’t. The Vikings got the ball upon review, but they were cheated out of the touchdown.
We’ll see how things play out as a result of that call. | 2022-12-17T21:45:29Z | sports.yahoo.com | Vikings cheated out of crucial touchdown by horrid officiating | https://sports.yahoo.com/vikings-cheated-crucial-touchdown-horrid-211329524.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/vikings-cheated-crucial-touchdown-horrid-211329524.html?src=rss |
Former Auburn linebacker travis williams is back coaching in the SEC West just not at Auburn.
According to a report by Brandon Marcello of 247Sports, Arkansas is “in the process” of hiring him to become their defensive coordinator.
Williams has spent the past two seasons as UCF’s defensive coordinator after spending the previous seven years at Auburn in various roles. The former All-SEC linebacker played at Auburn from 2001-05.
His first coaching stint at Auburn was from 2009-11 as a graduate assistant and he returned in 2014 as a defensive analyst. He was promoted to linebackers coach in 2016 and co-defensive coordinator in 2018.
Williams followed former Auburn head coach Gus Malzahn to become the defensive coordinator at UCF, his first time having complete control of the defense. The Knights held opponents to 23.2 points per game this season, good enough to rank 39th nationally. They had the best red zone defense in the American Athletic Conference, allowing touchdowns on just 44.44% of opponent trips.
Phoenix Suns point guard Chris Paul graduated from Winston-Salem State University on Friday, and he gifted $2,500 to every person in his class.
Willow Nightingale Explains Origins Of Her Ring Name, Reflects On Being WOW’s Eye Candy
Willow Nightingale brings an infectious energy to the professional world, […] | 2022-12-17T22:27:19Z | sports.yahoo.com | Former Auburn player and coach Travis Williams to become DC at Arkansas | https://sports.yahoo.com/former-auburn-player-coach-travis-211812670.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/former-auburn-player-coach-travis-211812670.html?src=rss |
They say the game of football is won in the trenches. And Michigan football has excelled on that front.
Last year, the Wolverines proved their mettle on the offensive line by winning the prestigious Joe Moore Award, given to the best unit in the country. With a Rimington Trophy and Outland Trophy award-winner in former transfer Olu Oluwatimi, the O-line was even better for Michigan football in 2022. The Wolverines were named Joe Moore Award finalists again, but had to battle Georgia, the other finalist, to take home the prize.
Turns out, they did. For the first time ever for any college football team, the maize and blue are back-to-back Joe Moore Award winners, matching their back-to-back Big Ten Championships.
Congrats to @UMichFootball on winning the 2022 @JoeMooreAward
1st ever back to back winners!
We’ll find out in the College Football Playoff, starting with the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl on Dec. 31 vs. TCU, and potentially in the national championship game on Jan. 9, 2023, whether or not said offensive line can propel the Wolverines to the best team in college football, period. | 2022-12-17T22:27:32Z | sports.yahoo.com | Michigan football wins Joe Moore Award for second-straight year | https://sports.yahoo.com/michigan-football-wins-joe-moore-211519555.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/michigan-football-wins-joe-moore-211519555.html?src=rss |
Dray thought Kerr benching him in Game 4 was 'disrespectful' originally appeared on NBC Sports Bayarea
And now that the Warriors are six months removed from hoisting their fourth Larry O'Brien Trophy in eight seasons, Green revealed his true feelings about the decision on the latest episode of "Throwing Bones."
"I even got benched in Game 4," Green said while explaining some of the adversity he faced during the Finals. "I got offense/defense subbed -- by the way, I felt like that was disrespectful as f--k.
"But, it's cool. Like, I didn't take it personal because the only thing that was important to me was to win a championship."
Green returned to the floor in several bursts over the game's final minutes, and the Warriors outscored the Celtics 10-3 after he returned from his brief hiatus.
Golden State, of course, went on to win the best-of-seven series in six games. And shortly after the team's championship parade in San Francisco, Kerr went on the "Point Forward" podcast and defended his decision to sit Green.
"I've been here now eight years, so I know all these guys so well," Kerr said. "I didn't really think much about it when I took Draymond out in Game 4, because that unit was not doing well so I was really looking for a shift. And I was thinking I would just take him out for a minute or two and then get him back.
"In the NBA if you find a group that works, then you stick with it and it doesn't matter who is on the floor. You can't worry about anybody's feelings being hurt or anything like that ... Sure enough, when the run ended and we went back to him, he was great and made huge plays down the stretch and it all worked out."
It certainly did work out, though Green thinks his attitude about the situation would be very different had the Warriors lost the Finals.
"Afterwards, I had to take myself to a place of, like, don't go down that road, because for me, that road can get ugly," Green said. "So for me, I'm like, 'All right, I got benched. We won. I'm cool.'
"Had I got benched and we lost, though, I'm not sure I would have handled it well."
RELATED: Why Draymond is 'not concerned' about other teams in West
Luckily for Dub Nation, that's something they don't need to imagine -- nor does the four-time NBA champion Green. | 2022-12-17T23:06:29Z | sports.yahoo.com | Draymond Green found benching 'disrespectful' in 2022 NBA Finals Game 4 | https://sports.yahoo.com/draymond-green-found-benching-disrespectful-172100092.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/draymond-green-found-benching-disrespectful-172100092.html?src=rss |
New York Knicks guard Derrick Rose (4) acknowledges the crowd during the second half against the Chicago Bulls at the United Center. / Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports
It’s been a frustrating few weeks for Knicks guard Derrick Rose.
The veteran has been removed from the rotation in favor of youngster Miles ‘Deuce’ McBride and as a result, hasn’t seen action since the Dec. 3 blowout loss to the Dallas Mavericks.
That is, of course, until Friday night.
With the Knicks leading late in the fourth quarter, head coach Tom Thibodeau finally called Rose’s number.
“I couldn’t say [what I told Thibs] right now because they’d fine me or something like that. But I told him I’m ready,” Rose said. “I’m just blessed that we played a great game and it allowed me to go out there and play.”
As the point guard made his way over towards the scorers table, and eventually out onto the floor, the rousing ovation from Chicago Bulls fans grew louder and louder.
Rose, of course, spent the first eight years of his NBA-career in Chicago, including three All-Star appearances and an MVP campaign.
“It was surreal just being in that moment. My kids and my fiancé were here, my oldest son is back in New York, but just being appreciative of the time I do get,” Rose said on the fans reception postgame.
He heard MVP chants from the second he hit the floor, and received even louder cheers after he drained a three for his only bucket of the night.
“I’m very fortunate to be on a winning team and I’m very fortunate to still be playing a game. Being healthy enough to play this game, coming back here and feeling the love and vibrations like that, that was surreal,” Rose added.
Thibodeau, who coached Rose and the Bulls for five seasons, said postgame he thought the reception was really nice to see and he was happy for the point guard.
“It was great, I was happy for Derrick. I know what he means to this city, to the fans, to the Bulls. And I know how he feels about the Bulls and the city so it was really nice to see for him.”
The long-time head coach added that despite the lack of minutes, Rose has been tremendous for the young guys on this Knicks team. The 34-year-old has thrived in every role he’s been in throughout his 14-year career.
“I can’t say enough about Derrick," Thibodeau said. "When I say that it’s a long standing thing, it’s a long relationship, we have a lot with each other. Whatever role he’s been asked he’s stared.
“He’s been great for our young guys, it’s important to have the right veterans around those guys. There’s nothing in this league he hasn’t seen. From being at the top of the mountain, to being hurt for three consecutive years, to being through all kinds of things. To bounce-back and be the person he is, it just says a lot about him. I was happy for him.”
One of those youngsters, RJ Barrett, told reporters after the game that Rose is kind of like "a superhero" to all his teammates who grew up watching him.
“All of us grew up watching him. I remember people having the ‘Crazy Light’ shoes. Just seeing him, he’s kind of a superhero to everybody,” the forward said.
“I remember our first game when we first traded for him I had to get my fan moment out of the way. I had to go up to him and say ‘hey man I’ve been a big fan, nice to meet you,’ and that was it, I dropped it from there. It’s always great to have D Rose around.”
On The Putback with Ian Begley, SNY’s NBA Insider talks about the future of the Knicks organization, and how they might operate leading up to the NBA Trade Deadline if they keep winning and getting better. | 2022-12-17T23:06:35Z | sports.yahoo.com | Knicks’ Derrick Rose receives ‘surreal’ ovation from Bulls fans | https://sports.yahoo.com/knicks-derrick-rose-receives-surreal-161557957.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/knicks-derrick-rose-receives-surreal-161557957.html?src=rss |
Some are trying to suggest the Sean Kugler “mistaken identity” claim is a reference to Steve Keim originally appeared on Pro Football Talk
Facebook parent Meta Platforms was upgraded by J.P. Morgan on the view that costs are coming under control, revenue should start to pick up and the current valuation is attractive. Analysts led by Doug Anmuth changed their rating on the stock to Overweight from Neutral. Shares are down about 65% this year, much more than either the S&P 500 or the technology-heavy Nasdaq, after the company invested billions in virtual reality platforms, that failed to be profitable. | 2022-12-17T23:06:48Z | sports.yahoo.com | Some are trying to suggest the Sean Kugler “mistaken identity” claim is a reference to Steve Keim | https://sports.yahoo.com/trying-suggest-sean-kugler-mistaken-150004322.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/trying-suggest-sean-kugler-mistaken-150004322.html?src=rss |
The previous biggest comeback in NFL history was when the Buffalo Bills — led by Frank Reich, whom the Colts fired as head coach in early November — rallied from a 32-point deficit to beat the Houston Oilers in the 1992 season wild-card round.
Trailing 36-28 late in the fourth quarter, Kirk Cousins launched a screen pass to Dalvin Cook, who ran 64 yards for a clutch touchdown.
Cousins then found T.J. Hockenson for the 2-point conversion and sent the game to overtime.
After both teams failed to score on their first possessions in overtime, the Vikings drove into field goal range and Greg Joseph nailed a 40-yarder to complete the historic comeback.
Per NFL Research, the last team to overcome a deficit of more than 24 points in a regular season game was a 2015 Washington team led by Kirk Cousin in Week 7, his iconic "You Like That?" win.
It looked bleak for the now-NFC North champions
The Colts haven't won under interim head coach Jeff Saturday since their first game together over a month ago, but they looked ready to end that skid from the moment the Vikings deferred the opening coin toss.
Starting with an impressive 49-yard kick return, the Colts kicked a field goal on their first drive. After the defense forced a three-and-out, former Vikings defensive lineman Ifeadi Odenigbo blocked the ensuing punt and JoJo Domann scooped the loose ball up for a 24-yard return touchdown to give the Colts a 10-0 lead.
The Vikings couldn’t seem to catch a break as Dalvin Cook broke off a 40-yard run and then fumbled.
The Colts turned that into points with a Matt Ryan touchdown to take a 17-point lead, their largest all season. Two more field goals made it 23-0.
With almost 6 minutes left before halftime, Julian Blackmon picked off a pass intended for Jalen Reagor and ran it in for a touchdown.
The tides began to turn with nine minutes left in the third quarter when K.J. Osborn made a big catch to put the Vikings in position for their first points of the game, and scored when Cousins found him again in the end zone.
After a Colts field goal pushed their lead to 33-7, the Vikings marched down the field and C.J. Ham made it touchdowns on back-to-back possessions with a minute left in the third quarter.
Vikings star wide receiver Justin Jefferson, who left the game briefly in the second quarter after a big hit by Colts linebacker Bobby Okereke, scored a touchdown to start the fourth quarter and bring the score to 36-21.
The Colts were nowhere to be found on offense in the second half, and Cousins found Adam Thielen for a 1-yard touchdown with 5:30 left to bring the Vikings within a score.
With three minutes left, Chandon Sullivan appeared to return a fumble for a touchdown, but it was nullified after the referees inexplicably ruled it a dead ball after he took possession.
That call seemed like the breaking point for the Vikings as Sullivan threw his helmet on the field and received a 15-yard unsportsmanlike conduct penalty. Minnesota ended up failing to convert a fourth-and-15, handing the ball back to the Colts with just under three minutes left.
But after Cook's 64-yard touchdown to send it to overtime, that dramatic moment became a distant memory as the Vikings fought to pull out the win.
A judge on Saturday set bond at $50,000 for the father of an Illinois man charged with killing seven people at a July 4 parade who is accused of helping his son get a gun license years before the shooting on a suburban Chicago main street. Robert Crimo Jr., 58, looked somber and tired in his first appearance before a judge since voluntarily surrendering to police Friday. Crimo, a rare case of a parent charged after a child is accused in a mass shooting, faces seven felony counts of reckless conduct — one count for each person fatally shot during the summertime parade. | 2022-12-17T23:06:54Z | sports.yahoo.com | Vikings mount biggest comeback in NFL history, clinch NFC North after falling behind 33 points | https://sports.yahoo.com/vikings-mount-biggest-comeback-in-nfl-history-clinch-nfc-north-after-falling-behind-33-points-220509139.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/vikings-mount-biggest-comeback-in-nfl-history-clinch-nfc-north-after-falling-behind-33-points-220509139.html?src=rss |
Eagles to wait at least another week for Goedert originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia
CHICAGO — The Eagles will have to wait at least one more week for Dallas Goedert.
Goedert, who has been on IR with a shoulder injury the last month, was not activated to the 53-man roster by Saturday’s 4 p.m. deadline. So he’ll have to wait at least one more week before his return.
It seems like there’s a decent chance he’ll be ready for the Cowboys game on Christmas Eve in a week. At least the Eagles hope he’ll be back.
Goedert, 27, suffered his shoulder injury against the Commanders back on Nov. 14 (thanks to a non-called facemask) and was put on IR, meaning he had to miss the minimum of four games. He’s waiting for the glenoid fracture in his shoulder to heal completely.
This breaks the Eagles’ streak of welcoming back a key player back from IR, following Jordan Davis in Week 13 and Avonte Maddox in Week 14.
Even without Goedert, the Eagles’ offense has been humming. In the four games without one of their biggest weapons, the Eagles are first in the NFL in total yards and second in scoring. And that even includes the offensive clunker against the Colts in their first game without Goedert.
Over the last three weeks, the team's offense really hit its stride, averaging 41 points and 463 yards per game.
“The thing that you learn is just that you have a lot of capable guys,” Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni said. “It reconfirms to you that you have a lot of capable guys on this offense.”
But they’ll happily welcome Goedert back when he’s ready.
Because before the injury Goedert was having the best season of his professional career. In nine games, Goedert already had 43 catches for 544 yards and 3 touchdowns.
Coming into Week 15, even after missing four games, Goedert was still sixth in the NFL in receiving among tight ends and second among NFC tight ends. And his 60.4 yards per game ranks second behind just Travis Kelce.
While Goedert was bummed to suffer his injury, he was at least comforted knowing he’d be able to return this season. And he really enjoyed watching his teammates go 4-0 without him.
He’ll get to watch his teammates play at least one more game without him. | 2022-12-17T23:16:27Z | sports.yahoo.com | Eagles don’t activate Dallas Goedert for Bears game | https://sports.yahoo.com/eagles-don-t-activate-dallas-213200036.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/eagles-don-t-activate-dallas-213200036.html?src=rss |
Eagles elect not to elevate Anthony Harris for Bears game originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia
The Eagles on Saturday elevated punter Brett Kern and linebacker and special teamer Christian Ellis from the practice squad to the active roster for their game against the Bears Sunday at Soldier Field.
However, safety Anthony Harris, who the Eagles added to the practice squad this week and was expected to see action Sunday, was not elevated and will not play in Chicago.
The Eagles added Harris and Kern to the practice squad on Tuesday following injuries in the Giants game. Reed Blankenship suffered a knee injury and is out for at least Sunday’s game, and Arryn Siposs hurt his ankle and is out for a minimum of four weeks on injured reserve.
With NFL interception co-leader Chauncey Gardner-Johnson on IR for at least two more games with a lacerated kidney, Harris seemed to be the likely starter at safety opposite Marcus Epps. Harris was a starter last year and throughout training camp before the Eagles released him.
He played in three games for the Broncos but didn’t get any snaps on defense, so his last meaningful action on defense came in the Eagles’ wild-card loss to the Buccaneers last January.
This seems to indicate that K’Von Wallace will start at safety Sunday vs. the Bears as the Eagles deal with the injuries to Gardner-Johnson and Blankenship.
Wallace, a fourth-round pick in 2020, replaced Blankenship in the Giants game and has started six games in his career.
The only other possibility is slot corner Josiah Scott, who practiced at safety during training camp.
Harris has started 61 games in his eight-year career with 10 interceptions, including an NFL-leading six for the Vikings in 2019.
Harris is more of a coverage safety and Wallace more of a box safety. Considering the Bears are No. 1 in the NFL in rushing and No. 32 in passing, the Eagles may feel like Wallace is a better fit for what they're going to see Sunday.
Kern, now in his 15th season, is a three-time Pro Bowler. He’s averaged 45.9 yards per punt with a 40.4 net average on 996 career punts. He was released by the Titans in training camp and hasn’t played this year.
Ellis has been on the practice squad all year but was a game-day elevation for both the Titans and Giants games and gave special teams a big lift in both games. Despite playing in only two games, he ranks sixth on the team with four special teams tackles.
Ellis played 21 snaps on special teams in each game and has also played 22 snaps on defense the last two weeks. His only previous NFL experience came in last year’s meaningless season finale against the Cowboys, when he played seven snaps on defense and 27 on special teams.
The Eagles got Ellis last summer after he was released by the Vikings, and he had three separate stints last year on the practice squad. | 2022-12-17T23:16:34Z | sports.yahoo.com | Eagles elect not to elevate newly acquired Anthony Harris for Bears game | https://sports.yahoo.com/eagles-elect-not-elevate-newly-215400232.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/eagles-elect-not-elevate-newly-215400232.html?src=rss |
How Vikings' win vs. Colts affects 49ers' NFC standing originally appeared on NBC Sports Bayarea
For three quarters of football on Saturday, it appeared as if the 49ers would receive a boost in the NFC standings as the Indianapolis Colts pummeled the Minnesota Vikings.
But San Francisco fans did not, in fact, "like that" when Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins led a historic comeback after being down 33-0 to start the second half, pulling off a 39-36 victory in overtime to clinch the NFC North.
With the win, the Vikings hold on to the NFC's No. 2 seed at 11-3, while the 49ers remain at No. 3 with a 10-4 record.
If the 49ers and Vikings end up with the same record at the end of the season, the team with the better conference record will win the tiebreaker. Through Week 15, San Francisco is 8-2 against the NFC while Minnesota is 6-3.
The Vikings have three conference games remaining this season, and the 49ers have two. If the season ended today, the NFC West champs would host the Washington Commanders in the wild-card round.
Here's how the NFC playoff picture looks after the Vikings' win:
3. San Francisco 49ers -- 10-4
Christian Saulsberry, who completed his first season in the Canadian Football League, was shot and killed Saturday. He was 25 years old. | 2022-12-17T23:17:12Z | sports.yahoo.com | NFL playoff picture 2022: How Vikings' win vs. Colts affects 49ers' NFC seed | https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-playoff-picture-2022-vikings-220403801.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-playoff-picture-2022-vikings-220403801.html?src=rss |
JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) -South Africa's ruling African National Congress nominated just two candidates to run for its top job on Saturday, leaving President Cyril Ramaphosa facing the health minister he suspended over corruption allegations in a party vote. The winner will have the ANC's blessing to run for president in 2024 elections under its banner, historically a shoo-in for the country's top job ever since the party's leading light Nelson Mandela ended white minority rule in 1994. The ANC's five-day conference in Johannesburg has exacerbated a rancourous divide between its two main rival power blocs, one coalescing around the incumbent Ramaphosa and the other around former President Jacob Zuma. | 2022-12-17T23:17:43Z | sports.yahoo.com | Raiders activate TE Darren Waller, WR Hunter Renfrow vs Patriots | https://sports.yahoo.com/raiders-activate-te-darren-waller-215411937.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/raiders-activate-te-darren-waller-215411937.html?src=rss |
The Minnesota Vikings completed the biggest comeback in NFL history, erasing a 33-point deficit by beating the Indianapolis Colts 39-36 on Greg Joseph's 40-yard field goal with 3 seconds left in overtime on Saturday to clinch the NFC North division in their typical dramatic fashion. Kirk Cousins passed for 460 yards and four touchdowns to lead the Vikings (11-3), who trailed 36-7 late in the third quarter and became just the third team in league history to win 10 games in one season by eight points or fewer. The Colts (4-9-1) stumbled onto the infamous side of the list, just ahead of the Houston Oilers in the 1992 postseason when they blew a 32-point lead (35-3) and lost to Buffalo (41-38) in overtime. | 2022-12-17T23:18:09Z | sports.yahoo.com | Vikings complete largest comeback in NFL history, win NFC North | https://sports.yahoo.com/vikings-complete-largest-comeback-nfl-220923507.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/vikings-complete-largest-comeback-nfl-220923507.html?src=rss |
BLACKSBURG, Va. (AP) Sean Pedulla scored 21 points to lead No. 24 Virginia Tech to a 74-48 victory over Grambling State on Saturday.
Virginia Tech: The Hokies wrapped up a somewhat soft nonconference slate with a 10-1 record, but they should find out more about themselves with two Atlantic Coast Conference road games to close the calendar year. Virginia Tech has played just one ranked team this season - North Carolina, which played that game without its best player and no longer is in the Top 25. | 2022-12-17T23:42:32Z | sports.yahoo.com | Pedulla, Virginia Tech cruise past Grambling State 74-48 | https://sports.yahoo.com/pedulla-virginia-tech-cruise-past-230657038.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/pedulla-virginia-tech-cruise-past-230657038.html?src=rss |
With a 14-16 record to start the 2022-23 NBA season, the Warriors' defense of their league title isn't going as well as the team might have hoped.
"I have a feeling the Warriors are going to make either [James] Wiseman or [Jonathan] Kuminga available,” the unnamed NBA exec told Bulpett. “They just need another solid veteran."
But could the team really be interested in moving a player like Kuminga, whose unreal athleticism offers great potential, or Wiseman, their former No. 2 overall pick who they've publicly stated they believe in?
“They think they’re decent enough talent-wise, but they just don’t think they can put those kids on the floor and execute," the executive told Bulpett. "They recognize their talent and their athletic ability; they just don’t have the execution piece. And their logic is this: they only have X number of years of Steph Curry‘s elite level of play, and they don’t want to waste any of it.
"So far those two kids have just not developed in the same way Jordan Poole has, and I would think there’s somebody out there who’ll say, ‘Yeah, I’ll take one of those young guys and see if I can, with patience, get them to develop.' ”
The anonymous exec also added that Golden State might be more willing to part with Wiseman, as there's "concern" there for his commitment to the game.
The Warriors recalled the 21-year-old from the G League on Thursday, and Wiseman proceeded to score six points in 11 minutes off the bench during the team's 118-106 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday night.
Warriors coach Steve Kerr was pleased with Wiseman's showing, and the 7-footer will remain with Golden State throughout the duration of their current road trip. As for Kuminga, recent stellar showings against the Boston Celtics and Utah Jazz have earned him praise, too.
RELATED: Steph reacts to shoulder injury, is relieved surgery isn't needed
But there's always a chance the team could look a lot different entering the new year. | 2022-12-18T00:37:59Z | sports.yahoo.com | NBA exec believes Warriors will try trading James Wiseman or Jonathan Kuminga | https://sports.yahoo.com/nba-exec-believes-warriors-try-232356494.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/nba-exec-believes-warriors-try-232356494.html?src=rss |
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) The Minnesota Vikings completed the biggest comeback in NFL history, erasing a 33-point deficit by beating the Indianapolis Colts 39-36 on Greg Joseph's 40-yard field goal with three seconds left in overtime Saturday to win the NFC North division in their typical dramatic fashion.
''We're going to grind it out until they tell us there's no more ball left to play,'' coach Kevin O'Connell said.
''When you have chances to put people away, we've got to do a better job than we've done up until this point,'' quarterback Matt Ryan said.
''Nothing fazes us. We showed that in Buffalo,'' said cornerback Patrick Peterson, who aided a 33-30 overtime victory over the Bills on Nov. 13 after a 17-point deficit. ''We showed that again today.''
''It's a special group, a lot of fighters,'' Thielen said.
''We would have closed the game out and ended the game,'' Saturday said. ''I'm in. Everybody's in. We didn't convert.''
''I know that there's other games that don't end like that. It was just cool to see everybody battle back and I'm just happy that I get to share this moment with my teammates, ''linebacker Eric Kendricks said, wiping off tears. | 2022-12-18T00:48:17Z | sports.yahoo.com | Comeback-king Vikings set NFL rally record in win vs. Colts | https://sports.yahoo.com/comeback-king-vikings-set-nfl-224431330.html?src=rss | https://sports.yahoo.com/comeback-king-vikings-set-nfl-224431330.html?src=rss |
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