Matt Campbell is working to keep two Penn State alumni — Dan Connor and Deion Barnes — on staff, and it appears he’s working on bringing in another to oversee the defense as a whole. Matt Zenitz of 247Sports reports that USC’s D’Anton Lynn is *the* target for Penn State’s incumbent defensive coordinator job.

A Penn State player from 2008-2011, Lynn was an NFL assistant from 2014-2022, working his way up from being a seasonal intern with the New York Jets to the safeties coach for the Ravens. He made the move to the college game in 2023, serving as the defensive coordinator at UCLA for one season and at USC for the past two. In both cases, he took over horrendous units and improved them mightily right away. Below is where the Bruins and Trojans defenses ranked in SP+ before Lynn’s arrival and then during his tenure.

Before D’Anton Lynn: UCLA (2022) — 83rd
During D’Anton Lynn: UCLA (2023 — 17th

Before D’Anton Lynn:USC (2023) — 105th
During D’Anton Lynn: USC (2024) — 48th
During D’Anton Lynn: USC (2025) — 35th

At Penn State, he wouldn’t be taking over a dreadful unit — the Nittany Lions, even in a down defensive season, finished 33rd in SP+. But there’s still the element of a lot of transition with NFL departures and potential transfer portal movement that bringing in someone like Lynn who gets improved results right away would be an awesome fit.

So the guy is good. Really good. And it’d be quite the hire for Matt Campbell to get him just 12 months after the last guy got turned down.

We’ll see where this goes. It’s a good sign to get a tweet like that from Zenitz, but until there’s a “are finalizing a deal” tweet, this one remains up in the air.

The 16th ranked Alabama Crimson Tide took down the visiting South Florida Bulls 104-93 on Wednesday in Coleman Coliseum. The Bulls are coached by long time Nate Oats assistant Bryan Hodgson. Alabama improved to 8-3 with the victory while USF fell to 6-5.

Oats tweaked the starting lineup again, beginning with Labaron Philon, Latrell Wrightsell, Houston Mallette, Aiden Sherrell, and for the first time, freshman London Jemison. Jemison’s classmate Amari Allen was held out of the game with an injury. Jemison was injured during the first half and did not return to the game.

Sherrell scored the first bucket of the game and was fouled, but missed the free throw. The Bulls pulled out to a 5-2 lead but Mallette hit a long three pointer to tie the game with 17:40 left in the half. Aden Holloway came off the bench and drilled a triple for a 15-10 Bama lead. Mallette connected from long distance twice more, and Philon over came a slow start to score in the lane, seemingly anytime he wanted to. Sherrell just beat the half time buzzer with a put back and the Tide took a hard faught 44-38 lead into the locker room. Bama had no answer for the Bulls Wes Enis, who made 5-9 three pointers in the half and scored 17 points.

The Tide shot 15-40 for 38% including 5-18 from deep while making 11-14 at the free throw line. Bama totaled 32 rebounds- the same amount they had in the whole game Saturday against Arizona- with 16 on the offensive end-after totaling only three in Saturday’s game. Alabama had seven assists, five blocks, four steals, and turned it over six times. Mallette had the best half of his Tide career with 13 points, seven rebounds, and one steal. Philon totaled 10 points with four assists. Taylor Bol Bowen grabbed six rebounds with four offensively in only seven minutes after being singled out by Oats after Saturday’s loss. Sherell had six points, six rebounds, and three blocked shots.
USF shot 13-34 for 38% with 6-17 from three point range. The Bulls made 7-12 at the charity stripe, totaled 22 rebounds, passed for eight assists, five blocks, four steals, and committed six turnovers. Enis’s 17 points led the way, followed by Josh Omojafo with eight points and four rebounds. Izaiah Nelson had six points and five rebounds before exploding in the second half.

Jemison didn’t come out of the locker room after the half and was replaced by Taylor Bol Bowen to begin the second period. Wrightsell and Philon combined to make three shots from behind the arc early to build a 10 point lead at 59-49 with 15:10 left in the game. Holloway entered the game and heated up from long distance. Holloway’s third long range make of the game gave the Tide a 72-56 lead with 12:20 left in the game. From that point forward the game became an endless march to the free throw line as the zebras blew the whistle on almost every possession on both ends of the court. Bama mixed a few baskets in around the free throws, and was able to break the century mark for the fourth time this season.

The Tide shot 16-29 in the second half with 8-15 from three. Bama also drained 18-21 from the free throw line. After a great first half on the boards, Alabama only had 13 total rebounds in the half. Overall the Tide shot 31-69 for 45%, 13-33 from deep for 39%, had 45 rebounds, 14 assists, seven blocks, 11 steals, and 14 turnovers. Philon tied his career with his third 29 point game of the year and added three rebounds, seven assists, and a block, all while turning the ball over one time. After being shut out on Saturday, Holloway bounced back with 24 points and added four rebounds with three assists and two steals. Mallette had a solid game with 14 points, seven rebounds, one assist, and two steals. Wrightsell contributed 10 points. Bol Bowen finished with nine points, nine rebounds, and two blocks. Six of Bol Bowen’s were offensive, a point of emphasis for Oats. Sherrell scored six points, grabbed seven rebounds, and blocked three shots.

USF shot 15-38 in the second half with 4-13 from deep and 20-22 at the charity stripe. Overall the Bulls finished 28-72 for 39%, 10-30 from deep, and 27-34 at the free throw line. South Florida dominated the second half boards and totaled 46 in the game and dished out 15 assists, blocked six shots, had eight steals, and turned the ball over 15 times. Nelson was a monster down low and finished with 25 points and 12 rebounds, after a quiet first half. The Tide did a much better job on Enis, holding him to three second half points and 20 overall. Omojafo had a double-double with 20 points and 11 rebounds. Joseph Pinion finished with double digits with 11 points

A good bounce back win by the Tide after the second half meltdown against Arizona. South Florida is a tough, well coached team, but this is a game Bama should have easily won. Some of the problems were addressed, especially the rebounding in the first half. Oats said “we did a better job early, but we have to keep it up for 40 minutes” and continued, ““we did a better job on Enis in the second half, but 35 (Nelson) killed us.” Bol Bowen seemed to get the message with his work on both ends of the floor. Philon continues to look like one of the best players in the country. Oats praised Mallette’s penchant for doing whatever is asked of him saying ““Houston is a pleasure to coach.”

Next up is the final former coach on staff game when Antoine Pettway brings his Kennesaw State team back to his home state. However the game will not be played in Tuscaloosa,where Pettway played and coached for so long, but in Huntsville’s Von Braun Center in the ““Rocket City Classic.” The game is Sunday at 1 p.m CT and will be available on SEC Network Plus. The Tide will finish off their out of conference schedule on December 29th with an actual home game aginast Yale at 7 p.m. CT.

Green Bay men's basketball coach Doug Gottlieb plans to "take a break" from his radio show. Gottlieb wants to put his complete focus on his coaching duties.

The former Oklahoma State guard was hosting a national sports talk radio show before he was hired by Green Bay in May 2025.

"As of now, we're going to take a break from it," Gottlieb said in his news conference after Green Bay's 67-64 victory over UC Santa Barbara on Wednesday. "I've got to have a life. I've got to be there for these kids. I've got to really dig in because we're building something cool here."

Gottlieb expects to continue doing his podcast.

Green Bay has won two of its last three games since Gottlieb expressed his frustration after an 80-78 loss to Robert Morris on Dec. 4. Gottlieb was caught on camera throwing a chair on his way back to the locker room following that loss.

Green Bay was up by as many as 11 points with 3:54 left in the second half. But the Colonials cut Green Bay's lead down to two points with 35.7 seconds left, when the Phoenix were called for a 10-second violation after not advancing the ball past midcourt.

Robert Morris made a go-ahead 3-pointer and Green Bay made just one of two free throw attempts to leave the game tied. Nikolaos Chitikoudis provided Robert Morris with the victory after making the winning layup with 2.4 seconds left to play.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Doug Gottlieb taking break from radio show to focus on basketball team

The Old Dominion Monarchs fully joined the FBS in 2014 and rapidly acclimated to the highest level of college football, producing a 10-3 record in 2016. However, through the 2024 season, that was the only winning season Old Dominion ever produced. That changed in 2025, and the program reached a new pinnacle on Wednesday night in Orlando.

Sixth-year head coach Ricky Rahne rattled off nine regular season wins to seal Old Dominion’s second winning record as an FBS program, and this breakout 2025 aptly concluded with a statement 24-10 upset over South Florida in the StaffDNA Cure Bowl. In the process, the Monarchs earned their biggest win in program history, adding a second bowl trophy to the shelf while tying their FBS record for wins in a season.

South Florida entered this matchup ranked second in the FBS in points (43.0) and yards (502) per game, lighting up opponents with seven games of 48+ points. Only twice did the Bulls score fewer than 31 all season — an 18-16 win over Florida and a 49-12 defeat to playoff-bound Miami (FL). USF faced obvious obstacles with the losses of head coach Alex Golesh (to Auburn), quarterback Byrum Brown, and Keshaun Singleton, and the Bulls could not overcome those absences nor the Old Dominion defense.

South Florida registered just 10 points, scoring one first half touchdown and facing a second half shutout to a relentless Monarch bunch. Old Dominion made its presence felt with four sacks and five takeaways, concocting a +4 in the turnover battle against one of the nation’s best turnover-producing teams. Outside linebacker Jeremy Mack totaled a game-high 11 tackles and a sack, while free safety Jerome Carter snagged two interceptions in a 3.5-hour defensive clinic by the boys from Norfolk.

Old Dominion’s offense also faced some pregame adversity, as Sun Belt Offensive Player of the Year Colton Joseph opted out of the remainder of the 2025 season, thrusting Quinn Henicle into the starting quarterback spot. Henicle started and won a game in 2024 with 204 rushing yards, and the sophomore’s mobility was on full display in ODU’s massive win. He only completed 11-of-25 passes but made his presence felt on broken plays, scrambling up the middle for massive gains. Even after four sacks he rattled off 107 rushing yards and two touchdowns, delivering a 51-yard blow with 2:32 remaining to put the game out of reach. Henicle, who returned from a brief third quarter injury stemming from a targeting call, won MVP honors for his effort in Orlando.

South Florida’s backup quarterbacks did not enjoy the same level of production as Henicle. Sixth-year senior Gaston Moore earned his first and last collegiate start at quarterback to replace Byrum Brown, and Moore finished 20-of-28 with 236 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions. He had one first half sequence where he connected with true freshman Jeremiah Koger for back-to-back 25 and 31-yard pickups — with the latter serving as USF’s lone touchdown. But there wasn’t much explosiveness in the passing game otherwise.

Moore’s last throw was a notable one, and unfortunately for the longtime backup, it was his final collegiate pass. In the fourth quarter, trailing 17-10, he sent a 20-yard strike to JeyQuan Smith at the Old Dominion 14-yard line, and Smith made a spectacular diving grab. However, Moore took a brutal hit while releasing the ball that caused his head to collide with the Camping World Stadium field, ultimately knocking him out of the final 12 minutes.

Protesting the hit, South Florida guard Cole Skinner and interim head coach Kevin Patrick were both assessed with 15-yard unsportsmanlike penalties. Then USF took a sack and holding on the next two plays, ultimately moving the Bulls back from the Old Dominion 14 to their own 38 — a monumental 48-yard difference. USF never even crossed the ODU 40-yard line again, as those penalties proved instrumental in the defeat.

True freshman Locklan Hewlett, whose passing experience was limited to a 45-yard fake punt touchdown in Week 1, finished the effort for the Bulls. But on a 4th and 6 from its own 47-yard line with 3:45 remaining, South Florida made the questionable decision to run a fake punt — this time, without Hewlett disguising as a punter. Punter Chase Leon was intercepted by Jerome Carter on a play that never stood a chance, ultimately putting a dagger in USF’s hopes at a 10-win season.

Special teams also played a significant role in this contest. Both teams missed two field goals in this game, including several attempts under 40 yards. But special teams ended up favoring Old Dominion overall as the Monarchs denied South Florida of a critical fourth quarter possession. An ODU punt hit a USF gunner two times on Wednesday evening, and on the second occurrence, Monarch long snapper Brendan Durkin made a mid-air recovery after the ball bounced off the gunner and return man.

South Florida (9-4, 6-2 American) missed out on a golden opportunity for its first 10-win season since 2017. The Bulls enjoyed their best season in nearly a decade but it comes to a bitter end, as they will be denied a season-ending ranking — a feat the team hasn’t accomplished in eight years. The Bulls now officially move into the Brian Hartline era, as the Ohio State offensive coordinator relocates to Tampa when the Buckeyes’ playoff run is complete.

Old Dominion (10-3, 6-2 Sun Belt) sealed its best season as an FBS member with a victory for the ages. Two of the three Monarch losses — Indiana and James Madison — are competing in the College Football Playoff, and they now unlock a new signature win by upending South Florida. Ricky Rahne celebrated his first bowl win as head coach, capping off an unforgettable moment in the program’s young history.

NCAA volleyball tournament bracket 2025: Updated schedule, TV channels, scores for college final four games originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

A long, hard-fought season comes down to just three more matches — the 2025 NCAA volleyball final four is officially here.

The Elite Eight brought a world of surprises and upsets, with the biggest being No. 3 Texas A&M stunning previously unbeaten No. 1 overall seed Nebraska in five sets. The Aggies are now in their first-ever semifinals, where they will be joined by fellow No. 3 seed Wisconsin, which upset No. 1 Texas Sunday.

The other two programs are the remaining No. 1 seeds, Kentucky and Pitt, who defeated their quarterfinal opponents in three and four sets, respectively. This marks Pitt's fifth consecutive Final Four berth, but the Panthers have still yet to win a title. 

Kentucky and Wisconsin are both returning to the semifinals for the first time since their most recent national titles in 2020 and 2021.

Who will keep their season alive this week?

Here's everything you need to know about the 2025 NCAA volleyball final four, including TV channels, schedule and a full bracket for the semifinals and championship match.

NCAA volleyball tournament bracket 2025

• No. 1 Pitt vs. No. 3 Texas A&M
• No. 1 Kentucky vs. No. 3 Wisconsin

How to watch 2025 NCAA volleyball tournament matches

• TV channel: ESPN, ABC
• Live stream: Fubo

The NCAA volleyball semifinals will be broadcast on ESPN, while ABC will broadcast the championship game for the third straight year.

Streaming for every match is available on Fubo, which offers a free trial for new users.

Fubo offers a free trial for new subscribers, so you can try the service before you buy. Stream ESPN, ABC, CBS, Fox and 100+ top channels of live TV and sports without cable. (Participating plans only. Taxes and fees may apply.)

NCAA volleyball tournament schedule, scores 2025

Semifinals

Thursday, Dec. 18

Championship

Sunday, Dec. 21

NCAA volleyball champions

Here are the NCAA volleyball champions from the last 10 seasons.

With 4:56 left in the first half, Ben Gold scored on a layup to put YOUR Marquette Golden Eagles up 29-20 on Georgetown on Wednesday night at Fiserv Forum.

and yet

somehow

Georgetown led, 37-33, at the half, thanks to a Langston Love three-pointer with three seconds left before the horn.

1. Yes, that is a 17-4 run to end the half for the Hoyas
2. Marquette would get closer than four points on just two occasions in the second half. One was on a Caedin Hamilton and-1 with 19:21 left, and the other was on a pair of Chase Ross free throws with 8:41 to play. Bot times, the Golden Eagles cut the margin to just three points.

You are currently thinking: “Hey, wait, that headline says Marquette lost by nine, it was a three point game with just under nine minutes left?” Sure was, boss. Georgetown followed up those Ross free throws with a 17-5 run. Hoyas by 15, 75-60, 3:18 to play, and that’s your ball game.

Losing sucks. Losing a third straight game sucks. Falling to 5-7 overall this season sucks. Dropping under 100 in the KenPom.com rankings for the first time since they were pushed back into double digits by a 66-61 win over Creighton on February 24, 2016, sucks.

But the thing that really grinds my gears about this loss?

Marquette looked great for about 15 minutes on Wednesday night. Marquette finally looked like the version of themselves that I thought they could be this season. Marquette finally looked like a team that was really annoyed about being under .500 in the month of December for the first time since Shaka Smart was hired.

MU started off this game shooting 6-for-10 from the field, including a pair of three-pointers, one each from Adrien Stevens and Sean Jones. Ben Gold’s layup for a nine point lead moved them to 11-for-25 in the game, and a dunk from Damarius Owens made it 12-for-26. No, 46.2% isn’t great, but they did have four three-pointers in there, so that’s 53.8% on effective field goal percentage, so that’s fine.

Marquette finished the half shooting just 43.3% with an eFG of just 50%.

Marquette shot 41.2% in the second half and just 20% on 15 three-point attempts. That’s an eFG of just 45.6%.

From that Owens dunk forward, Marquette shot just 15-for-38 from the field. That’s 39%. From that Owens dunk forward, Marquette had an effective field goal percentage of just 43.4%.

I said it in the preview: Whichever teams manages to shake off their lousy shooting this season will win the game.

Turns out, Georgetown only needed to shoot 47% from the field with an eFG of 50% in order to succeed, because Marquette was awful here. Part of that is Georgetown’s existence, as they were able to not care in the slightest about MU’s outside shooting for most of the game — 27% overall, 20% in the second half! — and so they could just collapse on whatever driver was taking the ball inside with absolutely zero worry about getting burned.

Zaide Lowery did not appear in this game.

5-7 overall. 0-1 in the Big East.

20 more of these things left to go.

Highlights, such as they are, courtesy of GoMarquette.com and Fox Sports:

Up Next: Got a good news, bad news situation for you. On Saturday, Marquette heads to the western-most outpost of the Big East to face Creighton. The Bluejays are just 6-5 on the year and have been struggling mightily after the loss of preseason all-Big East forward Jackson McAndrew to a season ending injury. That’s the good news.

The bad news is that Creighton shot 49% from behind the three-point line and 73% inside it on their way to a 98-57 victory on the road at Xavier on Wednesday night. If that’s a sign that the Bluejays figured something out, Marquette’s in a lot of trouble. Tipoff on Peacock is scheduled for 7:30pm Central.

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Over the last two games, the Utah Mammoth have a goal differential of zero.

They lost 4-1 to the Boston Bruins on Tuesday and beat the Detroit Red Wings on Wednesday. They managed a .667 points percentage during their eastern road trip and they’re now 3-1-0 in their last four games.

But the Mammoth are still just shy of a playoff spot, as both the San Jose Sharks and the Los Angeles Kings have multiple games in hand, despite the fact that all three teams are tied in terms of points.

Here’s the story of Utah’s win in Detroit.

Quick catchup

Utah Mammoth: 4

Detroit Red Wings: 1

Karel Vejmelka maintained a shutout for the first 50 minutes of the game, but Emmitt Finnie spoiled it with a power play goal.

That goal brought the score to 2-1, turning up the pressure for Utah. But with the increased pressure came an increase in motivation, and Dylan Guenther and Kevin Stenlund added a pair of insurance goals to make sure they didn’t let this one slip.

They’d struggled to generate offense in Boston, but they got everything they needed in Detroit.

“That group has a lot of pride,” head coach André Tourigny said of his team. “There’s a lot of pride, there’s a lot of character. There’s nobody perfect in the world, but those guys care a ton, and they want to be successful together. They showed it tonight in the character situation.”

Tidbits and takeaways

Battling in the tough areas

Both Keller and Tourigny credited the Mammoth’s win to their willingness to go to the tough areas.

“I think we just had to be better in the dirty areas, around their net, those 50-50 pucks, kind of all over the ice,” Keller said. “That’s something we had an emphasis on today ... having a guy inside at all times. We do that, the rest takes care of itself in the o-zone.”

All four of Utah’s goals came from the hash marks or lower, with two of them coming off rebounds. When you have guys like 6-foot-6 Simon Edvinsson and 6-foot-3 Ben Chiarot breathing down your neck, holding your ground in front of the net and battling for the puck in the corners is much easier said than done.

Team-leading 16th goal of the season for Gunner! pic.twitter.com/2gQMDTc1oe

— Utah Mammoth (@utahmammoth) December 18, 2025

“For a lot of our guys, it’s not first nature,” Tourigny said. “So we need to stay on it. I’m not saying that in a negative way I’m saying that we just need to be aware: If we fall asleep, that will go away. So we cannot. We need to stay aware of it and make the commitment of playing that way, and when we do, we have success, so we have to keep going.”

The importance of good goaltending

As mentioned, the Mammoth benefitted greatly from good goaltending on Wednesday — and while their loss on Tuesday should be chalked up as a team loss rather than an individual one, their goaltending didn’t do them any favors that day.

There’s a magic number at play here: .900.

With the exception of three games, all of Utah’s wins this season have involved a save percentage of .900 or better. And with the exception of three games, all of their losses have had a sub-.900 save percentage.

If they hit that number, they can expect to win. If they don’t hit it, they should expect to lose. And their lineup decisions should reflect that.

“A lot of guys played well tonight, everywhere,” Tourigny said. “If you look at our D corps, we were rock-solid. Our goalie was rock-solid. I like our four lines. ... 4-0 at 5-on-5 against the second team in the Eastern Conference, we’ll take that.”

Clayton Keller’s big game

Criticism surfaced on social media Tuesday morning for Keller’s relative lack of production recently. He’s still on pace for 68 points, but he’s capable of much more than that.

Having unexpectedly lost his father a few weeks ago, it’s hard to blame him — but the team relies on him for offense all the same, and you know he wants to get back to the 1.5 point-per-game pace with which he began the season.

Wednesday’s game was a step in the right direction. He broke a three-game point drought, scoring a goal in the first period and adding an assist in the third.

“Kells, he competes,” said head coach André Tourigny. “I think, tonight, he wanted to make the difference, and he scored a big goal, made a great play on Stenny’s goal, but it’s more than that. It’s the fight he had. ... I felt like that about our team, and it started with our captain.”

That's our Captain! 🔥

🚨1-0, Utah! pic.twitter.com/H7JvinB3UZ

— Utah Mammoth (@utahmammoth) December 18, 2025

Remember the name

The bulk of NHL fans weren’t familiar with Emmitt Finnie until October of this year. He was a seventh-round pick in the 2023 draft, so expectations of him were never particularly high. But he surprised a lot of people at training camp and he ended up making the team because of it.

And it didn’t stop there.

The 20-year-old scored again on Wednesday, giving him eight goals and 16 points in 35 games this season. That’s a great start to an NHL career, and if he keeps progressing the way he is, he’ll carve out a good living for himself.

It also doesn’t hurt to have Lucas Raymond and Dylan Larkin as your line mates, and averaging more than a minute and a half of power play time helps, too.

Goal of the game

Carcone to McBain

Jack McBain gets credit for scoring the goal, but it doesn’t happen in the first place without Michael Carcone’s perfect setup.

Carcone picked up a puck off the end boards and fed McBain a no-look, spin-o-rama pass — the type of play you’d expect to see from a superstar, not someone on a league-minimum contract.

Bain Train makes it 2-0, Utah! 🚂 pic.twitter.com/5wU0B53bYJ

— Utah Mammoth (@utahmammoth) December 18, 2025

LOS ANGELES — Ezra Ausar and Chad Baker-Mazara each scored double figures and led the USC Trojans offensively en route to a breezy 97-70 victory over the UTSA Roadrunners. With this win, the Trojans improve to 11-1 on the young season and are the only team besides Nebraska in the Big Ten with 11 wins. 

To begin this contest, UTSA and USC were pretty much responding back and forth to each other, and at one point, the Roadrunners had themselves a 31-29 lead in the final three minutes of the first half. It wasn't until the Trojans took over the game from that point on and ended the first half on a 13-0 run and retake the lead, 40-31. 

"You gotta play the guys that have the right frame of mind and want to compete and play unselfish, that's why we played so well," Head Coach Eric Musselman said on the difference between the first and second half play and why he decided to go into the second half with the same starting five that ended the first half. 

Despite the slow start in the first half, Baker-Mazara amped up his intensity and notched 17 second-half points on 4-10 shooting. Baker-Mazara would finish his night with 20 points (5-13 shooting), 5 rebounds, and five assists. 

Ausar would lead the Trojans' scoring-wise with 22 points in 31 minutes and recorded his first double-double of the season after snagging his 10th board in the second half. 

No other performance was as superb as senior guard Ryan Cornish, who has really churned the pot as of late, but shone in this win, notching 18 points on 6-10 shooting, including going 4-8 from three-point range, and 4 rebounds in 27 minutes. During the last minutes of the game, Cornish was insinuating to his coaches on the bench that he wanted to sub out due to tiredness, but the Trojans' coaches insisted he stay and finish the remainder of the game. 

"I've got to get into a little better of shape," Cornish said with a smile on his face when asked to reflect on the final minutes of the game and what was going on through his head when he was trying to grant a sub. "I asked for a sub because I was tired, and usually it's a good thing to ask for a sub, because it means you're showing your all." 

The Trojans are entering their final week of non-conference play, as they managed to secure a game for Sunday after previously announcing that their last home game of December against Brown University was mutually agreed upon between the schools to be cancelled. USC will now face off against UCSC, a Division III school. 

SAN DIEGO  – The San Diego State Aztecs defeated the Air Force Falcons, 81-58, at Viejas Arena on December 17, 2025. The Sporting Tribune’s Brandon Pollard was there to capture the following TST Images.

Brandon Pollard - The Sporting Tribune

San Diego State forward Pharoah Compton (5) celebrates a dunk during an NCAA Basketball game between Air Force and San Diego State, Wednesday December 17, 2025 at Viejas Arena in San Diego, Calif.

Brandon Pollard - The Sporting Tribune

Players fight for the ball during an NCAA Basketball game between Air Force and San Diego State, Wednesday December 17, 2025 at Viejas Arena in San Diego, Calif.

Brandon Pollard - The Sporting Tribune

San Diego State forward Magoon Gwath (0) high fives guard Sean Newman Jr. (4) an NCAA Basketball game between Air Force and San Diego State, Wednesday December 17, 2025 at Viejas Arena in San Diego, Calif.

Brandon Pollard - The Sporting Tribune

San Diego State guard BJ Davis (10) dunks during an NCAA Basketball game between Air Force and San Diego State, Wednesday December 17, 2025 at Viejas Arena in San Diego, Calif.

Brandon Pollard - The Sporting Tribune

San Diego State guard Taj DeGourville (24) reacts to being called for a foul during an NCAA Basketball game between Air Force and San Diego State, Wednesday December 17, 2025 at Viejas Arena in San Diego, Calif.

Brandon Pollard - The Sporting Tribune

Air Force Head Coach Joe Scott yells during an NCAA Basketball game between Air Force and San Diego State, Wednesday December 17, 2025 at Viejas Arena in San Diego, Calif.

Brandon Pollard - The Sporting Tribune

San Diego State guard BJ Davis (10) looks to pass during an NCAA Basketball game between Air Force and San Diego State, Wednesday December 17, 2025 at Viejas Arena in San Diego, Calif.

Brandon Pollard - The Sporting Tribune

San Diego State plays full court defense during an NCAA Basketball game between Air Force and San Diego State, Wednesday December 17, 2025 at Viejas Arena in San Diego, Calif.

Brandon Pollard - The Sporting Tribune

San Diego State guard Taj DeGourville (24) waits to box out during an NCAA Basketball game between Air Force and San Diego State, Wednesday December 17, 2025 at Viejas Arena in San Diego, Calif.

Brandon Pollard - The Sporting Tribune

San Diego State Head Coach Brian Dutcher yells at a referee during an NCAA Basketball game between Air Force and San Diego State, Wednesday December 17, 2025 at Viejas Arena in San Diego, Calif.

Brandon Pollard - The Sporting Tribune

San Diego State guard Elzie Harrington (3) tries to save the ball during an NCAA Basketball game between Air Force and San Diego State, Wednesday December 17, 2025 at Viejas Arena in San Diego, Calif.

Brandon Pollard - The Sporting Tribune

San Diego State guard BJ Davis (10) looks on during an NCAA Basketball game between Air Force and San Diego State, Wednesday December 17, 2025 at Viejas Arena in San Diego, Calif.

Brandon Pollard - The Sporting Tribune

San Diego State guard Reese Dixon-Waters (39) steps back for a three pointer during an NCAA Basketball game between Air Force and San Diego State, Wednesday December 17, 2025 at Viejas Arena in San Diego, Calif.

It’s Wednesday evening here at BCB After Dark: the coolest club for night owls, early risers, new parents and Cubs fans abroad. We’re so glad you decided to stop by. Come on in out of the cold. We can check your hat and coat for you. There are still a couple tables available. They’re all good. The hostess can seat you now. Bring your own beverage.

BCB After Dark is the place for you to talk baseball, music, movies, or anything else you need to get off your chest, as long as it is within the rules of the site. The late-nighters are encouraged to get the party started, but everyone else is invited to join in as you wake up the next morning and into the afternoon.

Last night, I asked you which young Cub with a breakout season in 2025 is most likely to sustain (or improve on) that level in 2026. Like me, the plurality of you are big Michael Busch fans as he got 47 percent of the vote. Cade Horton got 28 percent and 25 percent went with Pete Crow-Armstrong.

Here’s the part where we listen to music and talk movies. You are free to skip that part. Don’t know why you would, but to each his or her own. The BCB Winter Science Fiction Classic features one of my all-time favorite films tonight.

Tonight we’re featuring the young vocalist Ella Cole who is making a name for herself performing tunes from the Great American Songbook. And of course, Christmas songs pay the bills that allow one to sing other jazz songs the rest of the year. So she released a Christmas album last year.

Here she is singing “That’s What I Want For Christmas,” which is best known as from a Nancy Wilson performance. This is live in studio last year.

You voted in the BCB Winter Science Fiction Classic between two time-traveling films and you went with the comedy, as Back to the Future advances over 12 Monkeys. You people do love your incest jokes. It’s OK. No judgments.

Today we have one of the biggest blockbuster films of all time against a low-budget indie film. I expect to be disappointed again, but at least I’ll be more understanding this time.

3. Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991). Directed by James Cameron. Starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, Linda Hamilton and Robert Patrick.

Terminator 2: Judgment Day is the 1991 big-budget sequel to the 1984 small-budget surprise hit The Terminator. There are many who think the first film was the better one, but it was this film that became a cultural touchstone, made boatloads of money and brought the phrase “Hasta la vista, baby” to the American lexicon.

In case you are part of the two percent that are unfamiliar with the premise of the Terminator series, the world was destroyed in 1997 a nuclear holocaust by a malevolent artificial intelligence called Skynet. (We all remember that, right?) What remains of the world is ruled by Skynet and its machine creations, which includes the Terminators. In the year 2029, John Connor leads the human resistance to Skynet’s rule, so in the first film, the T-800 Terminator (Schwarzenegger) is sent back in time to kill John’s mother Sarah Connor (Hamilton) before he is born. It fails, of course, so in the sequel, Skynet sends a new and improved T-1000 Terminator (Patrick) back in time to kill a ten-year-old John Connor (Edward Furlong). Future John sends back a reprogrammed T-800 (Schwarzenegger again) back in time to save his younger self.

The paradoxes of such a set-up are not really addressed in the film because Terminator 2: Judgement Day is primarily an action/special effects film. It would, however, be unfair to say that the only point of the plot is to get into big car chases, blow stuff up and make Arnold Schwarzenegger look very cool. It’s unfair because it’s also designed to make Linda Hamilton look cool as hell.

I’m being unjustly snarky there. The heart of the film is really the relationship between the T-800 and the ten-year-old John Connor. John teaches the emotionless robot what it means to be human and why humans have value. In response to the criticisms of the violence in the first film, Cameron has the young John Connor order the T-800 not to kill anyone. Grievously wounding and maiming is just fine, apparently. You wouldn’t want a Terminator who couldn’t fight back at all, especially in a film like this one.

Meanwhile, the T-800 serves as a surrogate father figure and protector figure for John. Along with Sarah, who gets broken out of a mental hospital where she was placed after her repeated rantings about Skynet and Judgment Day, the three of them become a kind of family that draws strength from each other.

(As an aside, the one part of the film that truly bothers me is the way that Cameron fell back on the harmful “evil foster parents” trope early in the film. At least he uses the T-800 to show that you can make a family without biology.)

Schwarzenegger himself is the first to admit that he’s not the greatest actor in the world, but you have to give him credit for this, his greatest role. It helps that his character can’t show emotion, but the film manages to find ways to let T-800 become a character with real “human” traits and a story arc that we can care about. Patrick is terrific as the cold T-1000 villain. 

Hamilton has to play crazy for much of the film and Cameron pulls off a neat trick by having the creator of Skynet played by Joe Morton. Sarah Connor’s obsession with Skynet leads her to try to murder the man whose creation will doom all of humanity. This is a parallel plot to the way that the T-1000 tries to kill young John. The trick is that Morton is one of the most likable actors around, so if she goes through with killing him, there’s no coming back from the crazy. But she does, and Hamilton does a good job of it. The T-1000 has no such qualms about killing the young John, making a nice contrast between the two attempts to change the future.

All of this is fine and good, but what elevates Terminator 2: Judgment Day to a classic is the special effects. The T-1000 Terminator (or just the Robert Patrick one if the numbers confuse you) is made out of liquid metal. Shoot it, tear a limb off or whatever, it just oozes back into place. He’s also a shapeshifter that can morph into different people or inanimate objects. T2 wasn’t the first film to use CGI as a special effect, but it was the first one to use it this much and to this great effect. Quite frankly, the effects still look very good by the standards of today. By the standards of 1991, it was positively mind-blowing. 

The special effects were a big, but not the only, reason that the Library of Congress put Terminator 2: Judgment Day on the National Film Registry in 2023. It was also one of the biggest box office hits of all time. 

Here’s the trailer for Terminator 2: Judgment Day

6. Repo Man (1984). Directed by Alex Cox. Starring Harry Dean Stanton, Emilio Estevez, Tracey Walter and Olivia Barash.

Repo Man is undoubtedly one of the most creative, out-of-the-box films ever made. Helmed by a first-time director in Cox on a shoestring budget, it throws pretty much everything it can against the wall to see what sticks. It doesn’t all hold together, but what does is pure magic. 

Repo Man is a lot of things. It’s a great science fiction comedy film. It’s a good car film. It’s one of the greatest “punk” movies with a fantastic soundtrack featuring the greats of the Los Angeles hardcore scene of the early-eighties as well as an Iggy Pop theme song. It’s one of the more quotable films you’ll ever watch. On top of that, this is a truly great Los Angeles movie, featuring parts of the city that you don’t often see in other films.

Did I mention the whole thing was financed by Michael Nesmith of The Monkees?

The macguffin of Repo Man is a pair of aliens in the trunk of a ’64 Chevy Malibu. The aliens never leave the trunk, so the special effects are minimal. Also, if you’ve seen Pulp Fiction, the mysterious glow of the briefcase in that film owes a lot to Repo Man. Except in Repo Man, anyone who opens the trunk and looks at the glowing aliens spontaneously combusts and dies, leaving just their shoes.

Otto (Estevez), is an aimless punk who gets roped into helping a car repossession by Bud (Stanton). Initially disgusted by the idea of working as a repo man, he changes his mind after realizing he has no job and no money. Otto comes to love being a repo man after his first real job when he discovers that “the life of a repo man is always intense,” as Bud puts it. Otto, like Bud, likes intense.

After a $20,000 bounty comes in for that Chevy Malibu, everyone is out to collect it. Not just Otto and Bud’s Happy Hands Acceptance Company, but the rival Rodriguez brothers, who seem to be a bit more competent at repossessing cars than they are. The CIA also wants the aliens in the Malibu back, as well as a shadowy group called the United Fruitcake Outlet, whom Otto comes in contact with after he picks up the lovely Leila (Barash). 

There is also a group of Otto’s former punk friends who go around “doing crimes” as they put it. They end up stealing the Chevy Malibu by accident. 

The film’s sight gags are legendary. Generic products are everywhere and at one point Otto eats out of a can of food simply labeled “Food.” Pine tree-shaped air fresheners hang everywhere and not just on rear-view mirrors. 

The men and women who work as repo men are also hilarious characters. Bud is best known for his “Repo Man Code” that he recites, but there is also Miller as the crazy mechanic who doesn’t drive and believes every single conspiracy theory he’s ever heard and repeats them in a deadpan manner. The rest of the Happy Hands people have their own wacky personalities as well. The Rodriguez brothers, Leila and her boss Agent Rogersz (Susan Barnes), the punk crime gang of Duke (Dick Rude), Debbi (Jennifer Balgobin) and Archie (Miguel Sandoval) are hilarious characters in their own right

Oh, and the Circle Jerks play themselves performing one of their songs as a sad lounge act. 

Then there are the quotes. “The life of repo man is always intense” is one, but there are several other lines that you’ll never forget. Many of them I can’t repeat here, but there’s also: 

Bud: Credit is a sacred trust, it’s what our free society is founded on. Do you think they give a damn about their bills in Russia? I said, do you think they give a damn about their bills in Russia?

Duke: The lights are growing dim Otto. I know a life of crime has led me to this sorry fate, and yet, I blame society. Society made me what I am. 

Otto: That’s bull[bleep]. You’re a white suburban punk just like me.

Duke: Yeah, but it still hurts.

Debbi: Duke, let’s do some crimes.

Duke: Yeah. Let’s go get sushi and not pay!

Leila: What about our relationship?

Otto: What?

Leila: Our relationship!

Otto: [bleep] that.

Leila: You [bleep]! I’m glad I tortured you!

Agent Rogersz: It happens sometimes. People explode. Natural causes. 

Kevin: There’s [bleep] room to move as a fry cook. I could manager in two years. King. God. 

Again, there are several others that I just can’t repeat. The broadcast TV edit of Repo Man is legendary for its creativity as well.

Repo Man is the kind of film that the studios just didn’t get and it basically got buried until the soundtrack started to sell and the record arm at Universal started bugging the film division to start promoting the movie. It got a second release and became an underground hit. It also took off on home video and has remained a cult classic ever since.

Here’s the trailer for Repo Man. There are some more very quotable lines that I didn’t repeat in here.

Now it’s time to vote.

T2 is on Netflix and Paramount Plus. Repo Man is available for rent.

You have until Monday to vote. Up next you get another chance to vote for a Terry Gilliam film as Brazil (1985) takes on a classic piece of Japanese anime Ghost in the Shell (1995). Brazil was on TCM last month, I hope you got a chance to watch it. Otherwise, it’s available for rent. Ghost in the Shell is on Amazon Prime (through the end of the month) and the Criterion Channel.

Welcome back to everyone who skips the music and movies.

As you’ve no doubt heard, former Cubs reliever Brad Keller agreed to a two-year, $22 million deal with the Phillies earlier today. Obviously that’s good news for Keller and bad news for those of us who wanted to see Keller return to the Cubs.

So tonight’s question is should the Cubs have matched or topped that offer? Keller was a key part of the Cubs bullpen last season, going 4-2 with a 2.07 ERA and three saves. He pitched 69.2 innings and struck out 75 and walked 22. His fastball averaged over 97 miles per hour. His underlying numbers indicate that that wasn’t a total fluke season.

But of course, relievers and their performance is a volatile thing. As good as Keller was for the Cubs last year, it’s easy to forget that he came to the Cubs on a minor league deal with an invitation to Spring Training. The year before he was released by the White Sox, who lost more games than any other team in modern baseball history.

That 97 mph fastball was also completely out of line with the rest of Keller’s career, where his velocity was a full four miles per hour slower. Some of that increased velocity is due to pitching out of the bullpen instead of starting, but Keller pitched out of the pen in 2024 and didn’t throw 97 that year. Yes, he made some adjustments coming into last year, but can we really be so sure he’s going to hold that velocity into his thirties?

The other issue is that from all accounts, the Cubs are still trying to sign starters Tatsuya Imai and Michael King. It’s hard to know how much money they could spend on Keller without knowing how much it will cost to sign one of those two. And neither starter has any incentive to sign anytime soon.

So you know Brad Keller. Would you take a chance on signing him to a two-year deal? It’s team president Jed Hoyer’s modus operandi to build bullpens out of spare parts and for the most part, he’s been successful doing so. He did give Phil Maton a two-year deal this winter, but for a much lower AAV than Keller got. I’m also reminded how many around here were upset when the Cubs lost out on closer Tanner Scott to the Dodgers last year. Now that was a four-year deal, but I’m sure the Dodgers would just give Scott to the Cubs for free now to get out from under that onerous contract after one terrible year for Scott.

Thank you for stopping by. A big thanks goes out to everyone who voted or commented this week. Please get home safely. We can get your coat for you now. Stay warm out there. Recycle any cans and bottles. Tip your waitstaff. And join us again next week for more BCB After Dark.

JUPITER — Shane Lowry could not help himself.

The Irishman got off to a rough start at the Golf Channel Games — the made-for-TV, silly-season, (unconventional) skills competition held at Trump National Jupiter — sending his first four shots during the driving competition everywhere but in play.

At one point, the fans attempted to give Lowry the Bethpage Black treatment. Except the boos and trash talk fell a bit short of what Lowry experienced at the Ryder Cup in September.

"A little bit like New York," Lowry said, sarcastically.

More golf: Here are the big changes TGL golf fans can expect at SoFi Center

Two four-player teams captained by the top two golfers in the world — No. 1 Scottie Scheffler and No. 2 Rory McIlroy — got together for an event billed as a combination of the NFL Combine, NBA 3-point competition and MLB Home Run Derby.

But at times this was more like Steph Curry trying to make a 3-pointer with a medicine ball. Or Aaron Judge having to hit the ball on the run.

"We tried something new," said McIlroy, whose team included Lowry, Luke Donald and Haotong Li. "And sometimes when you try something new it doesn't work out.

"But I think this one really did. I think the biggest thing is all the players were into it. It was fun. It was a different format, a lot more interaction between the players as opposed to traditional golf. So, yeah, overall it was an awesome night."

Team Scottie defeats Team Rory

For those keeping score at home, Team Scottie, which included Keegan Bradley, Sam Burns and Luke Clanton, defeated Team Rory. With the score tied after the five competitions, the event came down to one chip from just inside 50 yards between the captains.

And even then it took two measurements to determine Scheffler's chip was two inches closer to the pin than McIlroy's at 5-feet, 5-inches.

And once Scheffler was determined the winner, Lowry picked up his ball and tossed it onto the lake.

"I thought I got him," McIlroy said. "It looked like from back there that he was a little further away."

McIlroy dominated Scheffler in the Captain's Challenge — the two players hit 10 shots from predetermined spots on the course starting at 200 yards to a 15-foot putt — to force the playoff. And he raised his arms after Scheffler's chip stopped rolling, thinking he was closer.

"That's what people want," McIlroy said. "They want to see the best players in the world go up against each other, whether it's playing or in a skills challenge or whatever. So for a Wednesday night in December, I think this was pretty good for golf."

The night started with laughs on the range during the driving competition — even McIlroy was doubled over and laughing after Lowrey struggled to keep his ball in play — and continued through the final measurement.

Shane Lowry's putting, team relay and other highlights

• During the putting competition, which pitted Lowry against Scheffler, Lowery had a message for his opponent as he approached the first of his nine putts: "C'mon, Scottie, do your worst." It worked, as Lowry won the competition.
• In the team relay, a timed event with one player hitting the tee shot, another in the fairway and two on the green, Lowry hit a poor second shot that landed short of the green. Li was on the green awaiting the ball before realizing he had to hustle to get to Lowry's shot. "Run my lovely Chinaman," Lowry said.
• Bradley's drive during the team relay was headed straight for teammate Burns, except Burns, standing in the fairway ready to hit the next shot, could not see the ball looking back into the bright lights. "It's coming at you, Sam," Bradley said (players were equipped with earbuds to communicate with each other). Lowry then showed some concern for a member of the other team. "Literally, it's coming right at you," he warned Burns.
• Scheffler was rushing to hit a 10-foot putt during the team relay when he stopped in his backswing. "Keegan was yelling at me," he said after the miss. "He made me stop. What are you yelling at me for?"
• The 14-club challenge pitted two players from each team in a closest-to-the-pin competition from two different spots in the fairway. The catch, they had to use all 14 clubs between them, with the clubs being taken out of the bag as they were hit.

That resulted in putters and drivers being hit from 150 yards. And a lot of balls in the water. And a lot of trash talk.

"We have the core audience, which is great, and we know who they are and we know what they like," McIlroy said. "But to try to bring a few more people around or bring a few more people in under the tent, do stuff like this where you make it a little more fun.

"You look at what YouTube golf's done and you see the amount of people that watch that and enjoy that. This is sort of a hybrid of that. I certainly, I think there's a place for it."

Tom D'Angelo is a senior sports columnist and reporter for The Palm Beach Post. He can be reached at tdangelo@pbpost.com.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy chip off decides Golf Channel Games

1. ALEJANDRO GARNACHO (8.0, sub)

Second Man of the Match of the season for Garna, and like the first, it’s come in a League Cup match.

Two goals in 45 minutes of work, doubling his tally for the season and his Chelsea career, and helping us reach the semifinals of this competition once again. It may have been only third division opposition, but they all count … and something to build on for the big games coming up over the festive period.

2. PEDRO NETO (7.4, sub)

Neto continues to be an impactful player this season, scoring his team-leading sixth goal of the season, which proved to be the winning goal after we let Cardiff back into the game.

3. MOISÉS CAICEDO (6.8)

When in doubt, vote Caicedo.

vs. CARDIFF CITY (LC, A, W 3-1)

EXCEPTIONAL (8.5-9.5): —

EXCELLENT (7.5-8.4): Garnacho (8.0, sub)

GOOD (6.5-7.4): Neto (7.4, sub), Caicedo (6.8)

AVERAGE (5.5-6.4): Jörgensen (6.4), João Pedro (6.4, sub), Santos (6.2), Chalobah (6.1, sub), Gusto (6.1, sub), Acheampong (6.0), Hato (5.8), Buonanotte (5.7)

SUBPAR (4.5-5.4): Badiashile (5.4), Tosin (5.1), Guiu (5.0), George (4.9), Gittens (4.7)

BAD (3.5-4.4): —

TERRIBLE (2.5-3.4): —

OVERALL

MOBILE, Ala. (AP) — Jo Silver ran for 116 yards, including a 61-yard touchdown, and Delaware wrapped up its first year in the FBS with a 20-13 victory over Louisiana in the 68 Ventures Bowl on Wednesday night.

The Fightin' Blue Hens, who went 6-6 in their first year of FBS play, were granted a waiver to play in a bowl game after there were not enough six-win teams to fill all 42 of the FBS bowl games. In general, first-year FBS teams are not chosen for bowl games during their transition period. Wednesday's victory makes Delaware 7-6 overall.

The Blue Hens had to defend two passes into their own end zone in the final seconds to preserve the win. The Ragin' Cajuns had the ball on their own 7-yard line with 1:41 remaining. Lunch Winfield led a drive that included a 32-yard completion to Charles Robertson and a pass interference penalty on Delaware.

After Louisiana (6-7) reached the 8-yard line, Winfield ran for 1 yard on first down and threw incomplete on second down. On third down with two seconds left, Blake Matthews broke up a pass in the end zone.

Silver's long touchdown gave Delaware a 7-0 lead late in the first quarter and the Blue Hens went on to lead 10-3 at halftime. Nick Minicucci's 35-yard touchdown pass to Sean Wilson made it 17-3 early in the third quarter and a field goal made it 20-3 midway through the third quarter.

Louisiana kicked a field goal to make it 20-6 heading to the fourth and Winfield added an 8-yard touchdown pass to Shelton Sampson Jr. to make it 20-13 with eight minutes left.

Minicucci passed for 176 yards and Winfield had 231 yards.

___

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The Chicago Bulls defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers 127-111 on Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2025, at the United Center.

University of Wisconsin-Green Bay men’s basketball coach Doug Gottlieb has been part of the media for more than two decades as a radio talk show host.

He should know not to bury the lede.

It was about 8 minutes into his 20-minute press conference after UWGB’s 67-64 win over UC Santa Barbara on Dec. 17 that he dropped a bombshell.

He has decided to step down from his gig as host of "The Doug Gottlieb Show.”

“I am no longer going to do live radio,” said Gottlieb, who was emotional while making the announcement. “I’m still going to be doing my podcast. I’ve been doing it for 23 years. Radio is a relationship.

“There is a lawyer who helped us bridge the gap with the Oneida tribe. His name is William. I’ll never forget when I met him, he asked about my twins (daughters Harper and Grace). He said he was listening the day I called in (in 2006) because my twins were born prematurely. I’ve been doing it for a long time, but these kids (deserve) a fully dedicated coach. I know I’m fully dedicated, but you only get one shot at this thing.”

Gottlieb brought up an example from last week, when the team traveled to play at IU Indy. His radio show commitment kept him from riding the bus and instead forced him to fly to the game by himself.

That type of conflict has occurred at times since he was hired by UWGB in May 2024. He made headlines in February when he traveled to New Orleans before the Super Bowl to take part in Radio Row.

He did his show there on that Wednesday – UWGB didn’t have practice that day – and wasn’t able to watch the team practice live the following day as the team prepared for a weekend game at Purdue Fort Wayne.

The same type of situation could have occurred again this season, but not anymore.

“I’ll still be doing podcasts, and iHeart has been amazing about it,” Gottlieb said. “We will transition to a different version of it. It will still be the same stuff, but I’ll do it off office hours and at home. You can take days off, and I can have a life.

“Thanksgiving, I had all three of my kids in town. I had to work on a Friday because I wanted to bank those holiday days for when we travel or for game prep or whatever. It’s really hard. It’s going to be, obviously, a bit of a financial hit. I’ll work through it. I have been blessed beyond all measures. But 'The Doug Gottlieb Show' on radio, in the afternoon, as of now, we are going to take a break from it. I have got to have a life, I have got to be here for those kids, and I have really got to dig in, because we are building something cool here.”

Indeed, Gottlieb does appear to be building something.

After winning just four games in his debut as a Division I coach last season, the team improved to 6-7 with its win over a UC Santa Barbara team that entered having won eight of its first 11 games.

The Phoenix is even showing improvement from game to game.

After it recently blew a late lead in a loss to Robert Morris, UWGB was up by nine points with 4 minutes, 26 seconds remaining against Santa Barbara.

When the Gauchos cut the lead to just a single point with 53 seconds left, UWGB found a way to win and close out the game with a pair of free throws from senior guard Preston Ruedinger.

Gottlieb’s decision might seem curious considering how adamant he had been about doing both jobs.

Although exact figures aren’t known, it’s a good bet he makes more from his radio job than the $250,000 base salary he is making with the Phoenix this season. He does get raises at UWGB each year, including $305,000 for the fifth and final year of his contract.

Part of that five-year contract included a provision that he could be asked by UWGB to end involvement in outside activity should any of the conflicts be deemed to not be in the best interest of the school.

That did not play a part in Gottlieb’s decision to step away from radio.

Neither athletic director Josh Moon nor UWGB Chancellor Michael Alexander approached Gottlieb with any concerns or requests.

“No, this is Doug,” Moon said. “No part. We’ve talked about it since he has been hired, and we wouldn’t have hired him if it was an issue. This was in Doug’s court.”

Moon said Gottlieb did speak to him about his decision earlier this week and that it was only a matter of when he was going to announce it.

Although many questioned having a coach with multiple jobs, the exposure Gottlieb was able to give UWGB was unique.

“Those connections aren’t going to go away that Doug is going to have, that Doug has built for 20 years,” Moon said. “But, yeah, will it be good to have more time? I think Doug said that in his postgame. For his personal growth and just being able to balance and have a little bit more time to do a lot of things. But spend more time with players, etc., for sure.”

As for those players?

“I think (Tuesday) he told me, and asked me what I really thought about it,” junior forward Marcus Hall said. “I’m like, ‘It doesn’t really change anything for us.’ Some people might see it as not fully dedicated, but you could ask any player on our team, any coach, and I feel like he works just as hard if not harder than anyone else on the team.

“It’s cool that he will say that and he’s fully dedicated, but he was before that.”

This article originally appeared on Green Bay Press-Gazette: UWGB men's basketball coach Doug Gottlieb to step away from radio show

Who plays on 'Thursday Night Football' tonight? Time, TV channel, schedule, live stream for NFL Week 16 originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

As the regular season enters its final three weeks, the best race might reside in the NFC West.

The Los Angeles Rams enter Week 16 holding the No. 1 seed in the NFC, but they would be out of first place in their division with a loss to the Seattle Seahawks on Thursday night.

The Seahawks narrowly escaped the Philip Rivers-led Indianapolis Colts in Week 15, again showcasing a terrific defense but an inconsistent offense. The NFC West cannot be won on Thursday night, but the winner will be in the driver's seat with two games remaining and 12 wins in the standings.

Seattle is looking to avenge a November loss to the Rams in which Sam Darnold threw four interceptions but the Seahawks still had a legitimate chance to win the game in the final minutes. The Seahawks offense's margin for error is quite large thanks to a stellar defense, but that margin shrinks against a balanced team such as the Rams. 

Here’s everything you need to know about Thursday Night Football in Week 16, including TV and live stream details to watch the game.

Who plays on 'Thursday Night Football' tonight? 

• Matchup: Rams vs. Seahawks
• Location: Lumen Field, Seattle, WA

The Seahawks host the Rams in a pivotal NFC West battle on "Thursday Night Football."

What time is the NFL game on tonight? 

• Date: Thursday, Dec. 18
• Time: 8:15 p.m. ET

"Thursday Night Football" is set to kick off at 8:15 p.m. ET on Thursday, Dec. 16 from Lumen Field in Seattle.

What channel is 'Thursday Night Football' on tonight?

• TV channel: N/A
• Live stream: Amazon Prime Video

"Thursday Night Football" will not air on traditional broadcast television. Instead, viewers can stream the game live with Amazon Prime Video. 

Al Michaels (play-by-play), Kirk Herbstreit (analyst), and Kaylee Hartung (sideline reporter) will be on the call from Seattle as the Rams try to complete a season sweep of the Seahawks. 

'Thursday Night Football' radio station

• Radio channel: SiriusXM

Fans can listen to Rams vs. Seahawks on "Thursday Night Football" live with SiriusXM. For team-specific calls, head to channel 225 (Seahawks broadcast) and 226 (Rams broadcast). 

New subscribers get their first month of SiriusXM for free. Listen to every NFL game live, plus college football, MLB, NBA, NHL, NASCAR and more. Stay updated with all the news and analysis from SiriusXM NFL Radio and other sport-specific channels.

NFL Week 16 schedule

Thursday, Dec. 18

Saturday, Dec. 20

Sunday, Dec. 21

Monday, Dec. 22

Related Links

• Latest NFL news and rumors
• 2025 NFL schedule, scores
• 2025 NFL standings
• How to bet on the NFL

The Tennessee Titans hit the field for their first practice of the week as they began preparations for their Week 16 battle with the Kansas City Chiefs, and welcomed some familiar faces back to work. 

The Titans opened the practice window for Femi Oladejo, Bryce Oliver, and Ali Gaye, designating all three to potentially return from injured reserve. All three were back on the field in a limited capacity and could return this week. 

Offensive tackle Dan Moore Jr., who missed the Week 15 loss to the San Francisco 49ers, returned to practice and was a full participant. The bad news was that Cedric Gray (concussion), Amani Hooker (illness), Van Jefferson (back), and Kevin Zeitler (groin) all sat out practice due to their injuries. 

Jalyn Armour-Davis, Gunnar Helm, Chig Okonkwo, and Jeffery Simmons all joined Oladejo, Oliver, and Gaye as limited. Wide receiver Xavier Restrepo also returned to practice, but his injury status was not updated.

The full Titans’ injury report is below. 

Did not participate

LB Cedric Gray (concussion)

S Amani Hooker (illness)

WR Van Jefferson (back)

G Kevin Zeitler (groin)

Limited participant

CB Jalyn Armour-Davis (Achilles)

OLB Ali Gaye (knee)

TE Gunnar Helm (toe)

TE Chig Okonkwo (NIR/rest)

OLB Oluwafemi Oladejo (fibula)

WR Bryce Oliver (knee)

DT Jeffery Simmons (NIR/rest)

Full participant

T Dan Moore Jr. (neck)

This article originally appeared on Titans Wire: Titans injury report: Dan Moore returns, four starters sit out

Every year, each team holds a vote in the fall to determine which member of the team will be the recipient of that season's Ed Block Courage Award. The award is granted to a player who displays extraordinary courage in the face of adversity.

This year, the Washington Commanders roster determined that offensive lineman Sam Cosmi should receive the award.

.@SamCosmi is our 2025 Ed Block Courage Award winner 👏 pic.twitter.com/n49eJnwhtZ

— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) December 17, 2025

Cosmi suffered a torn ACL during the Commanders' divisional round game with the Detroit Lions in 2024-25. He started the season on the Physically Unable to Perform list, but battled hard and finally made it back to the field in Week 7 of 2025.

The Courage Award was named after Ed Block, the longtime head athletic trainer of the Baltimore Colts, a pioneer in his profession and a respected humanitarian. Originally presented to a Colts player, the scope of the award expanded to all 32 NFL teams when the Colts left Baltimore in 1984.

Sam Cosmi is the consummate professional, and having him back on the offensive line gave this team a huge boost when he returned.

This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders: Sam Cosmi is Ed Block Courage Award winner

Here are the latest Greater Cincinnati girls basketball power ranking of the 2025-2026 season.

With another week of results to ponder, league and postseason contenders are starting to emerge. The rest of this month will provide additional clarity as a number of tournaments and showcases are on the horizon.

All stats and records are updated through Dec. 16. (Not including games of Dec. 17).

Next in line: Notre Dame, Bishop Brossart, Seton, Oak Hills, Holy Cross, East Central, Highlands, Loveland

10. Mount Notre Dame Cougars

Record: 6-0

Last week: 10

Analysis: The Cougars are getting off to fast starts, taking double-digit halftime leads in each of their last three games. Against Beavercreek, sophomore forward Ava Simpson poured in 17 points to go with four rebounds, four assists and four steals.

This week: vs. Laurel at Purcell Marian (Dec. 20), vs. Carroll at Purcell Marian (Dec. 21)

9. Purcell Marian Cavaliers

Record: 4-1

Last week: 9

Analysis: Purcell Marian will face its toughest stretch of the season over the next two weeks as the Cavaliers welcome Africentric and Laurel to Hackberry Street before traveling to Miami for the Orange Bowl tournament. Last season, the Cavaliers went 1-3 in their lone in-season tournament, the Nike Tournament of Champions in Phoenix.

This week: vs. Africentric (Dec. 20), vs. Laurel (Dec. 21)

8. Simon Kenton Lady Pioneers

Record: 6-0

Last week: 8

Analysis: Simon Kenton won the Billy Hicks Classic in convincing fashion and have an average margin of victory of 23.5 points. The Lady Pioneers could take an undefeated record into 2026.

This week: vs. Campbell County (Dec. 18), vs. Butler at Frederick Douglass (Dec. 21), vs. Madison Southern at Frederick Douglass (Dec. 22)

7. Milford Eagles

Record: 5-1

Last week: 6

Analysis: Watch out for the Chadwell sisters every time the Eagles take the court. Gabby and Mikayla are combining for 20.7 points, 8.8 assists and 7.7 steals per game. Junior transfer Kylie Perone is also contributing 13 points and seven rebounds per game.

This week: vs. Lebanon (Dec. 18), vs. Winton Woods (Dec. 22)

6. Mason Comets

Record: 4-1

Last week: 5

Analysis: Mason had four players score in double digits in a win over Colerain, its most balanced scoring effort to date. Freshman Clara Anderson has turned into a valuable rotation piece, averaging 9.2 points and 3.2 rebounds.

This week: at Oak Hills (Dec. 17), at Sycamore (Dec. 19)

5. Princeton Vikings

Record: 3-1

Last week: 7

Analysis: The Vikings' defense has stepped up significantly as they've allowed an average of 27 points in their last two wins. In both of those games, their opponent shot less than 30 percent from the field and failed to make a 3-pointer.

This week: vs. Middletown (Dec. 19)

4. Cooper Jaguars

Record: 2-1

Last week: 4

Analysis: With 10 days since their last game, the Lady Jaguars should be well-rested for an end-of-month schedule that includes a road tilt against Notre Dame and two tournaments (Queen of the Commonwealth, Joe Lay and Sons Christmas Classic).

This week: vs. Hopkins County Central at Mt. Washington (Dec. 19), vs. TBA at Queen of the Commonwealth (Dec. 20), vs. TBA at QOC (Dec. 21), vs. TBA at QOC (Dec. 22)

3. Walnut Hills Eagles

Record: 4-1

Last week: 3

Analysis: The Eagles rebounded from a close loss to Walnut Hills with a 55-32 win over Kings in which they shot 46.5 percent from the field and 62.5 percent from 3-point range. It's only the second time they've shot better than 40 percent from beyond the arc, but they've been at their best when they pass up a good shot for a great shot.

This week: vs. Anderson (Dec. 18), at West Clermont (Dec. 22)

2. West Clermont Wolves

Record: 6-0

Last week: 2

Analysis: The Wolves are looking more and more dominant with each game. Bella Swisshelm leads all players with 23.8 points, 7.8 rebounds and 4.2 steals, and is one of five players averaging more than two assists per game.

This week: at Kings (Dec. 18), vs. Walnut Hills (Dec. 22)

1. Winton Woods Warriors

Record: 7-0

Last week: 1

Analysis: The Warriors have held their opponents to less than 10 points in seven of the last eight quarters of play. They have also allowed just seven opposing players to score in double figures.

This week: vs. Turpin (Dec. 19), at Milford (Dec. 22)

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Greater Cincinnati girls basketball power rankings, Dec. 17

Gainesville High School football fans packed Mercedes-Benz Stadium in downtown Atlanta for a shot at the state championship title on Wednesday night.

But Gainesville wasn’t able to come away with the win. Thomas County Central took the state championship 62-21.

“This is a brand new day, new opportunity,” said Tosha Smith.

Her son is a Freshman on the team, and she said last month there was concern the team might not make it this far. That’s when a bench-clearing fight broke out on the field during a game against Brunswick High School.

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Video shows a Brunswick player rip helmets off two Gainesville players and punch them. A lineman from Brunswick’s team ran nearly 50 yards to dive in, and players from both teams rushed the field.

“It was so disappointing,” said Smith. “But, I was so proud of how our boys handled the whole situation. They’ve handled it with a lot of grace.”

Gainesville City Schools had to go through the court system to try to stop the Georgia High School Association from suspending dozens of players before a key playoff game.

The agency ended up delaying games across the state.

After more push-back last week, the Board of Trustees agreed the suspensions were not consistent with past cases and lifted all Gainesville’s ejections permanently.

“All we wanted to do is the right thing by standing up as a community, let them play, and here we are,” said Crystal Wilmont.

RELATED STORIES:

• Suspended Gainesville football players allowed to play in quarterfinal game
• Football coach resigns after on-field brawl at Georgia high school playoff game
• Gainesville competes for first time since football brawl

Gainesville City Schools Athletic Director Adam Lindsey reflected on the case with Channel 2’s Courtney Francisco before Wednesday’s game.

“That three-week period right there was probably the hardest of my career,” said Lindsey. “At the end of the day, it was never a question. We were going to do what we felt was the right thing to do for our kids.”

Before the game Gainesville High School Head Football Coach Josh Niblett said, “It’s pretty emotional right now, but, you know, we just want to finish well.”

Looking back, parents said it is possible this season has shaped Georgia high school football forever.

“It’s about perseverance. Athletics teaches us a ton of lessons. That’s certainly one that our kids hope to take out of this one. That’s something that’s not just about this game, it’s going to follow them through in life,” said Lindsey.

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With the other needs generally filled (aside from perhaps some bullpen depth), the discussion within Braves Country has focused in on starting pitcher as the clear remaining need this offseason for the Braves. Some look at their solid (although injury-riddled) rotation depth and see no need, but the frequency of pitching injuries in the modern game begs to differ. I additionally would not be surprised to see Bryce Elder traded this offseason, as a fringy major league starter like that has substantially less value without minor league options. Acquiring a starter is tricky though, especially of the impact variety, which is the stated goal for the Braves. It almost has to be via trade or substantial free agent contract, which would likely cost the Braves the 26th pick in the 2026 draft. This becomes a complicated analysis of player quality, contract value, and asset value of prospects and draft capital. Handing out the type of contracts that free agents are likely to get and giving up the draft pick was never an appealing option to me for the available options this offseason outside of Dylan Cease. The trade market is always hard to read though, with availability and prospect cost often difficult to ascertain from the outside. That said, I think this front office has generally displayed good process and good results on the trade market, so I am inclined to trust them with another one here over a hefty contract on one of the available starters.

Braves News

We continue looking at prospects that could pique the Braves’ interest with the 9th pick in the upcoming draft, this time with Tyler Bell.

The Braves brought in catching savant Martin Maldonado as a Special Assistant for Major League Operations, adding another savvy operator to the coaching realm.

We continue to finish up our annual player review series with Austin Riley’s frustrating 2025.

MLB News

Former Braves’ farmhand Alan Winans has been granted his release by the Yankees to join the NBP.

The Mets signed reliever Luke Weaver to a 2 year $22 million deal.

The Phillies signed reliever Brad Keller, who had been linked to the Braves, also to a 2 year $22 million deal.

GAINESVILLE — Xaivian Lee scored 18 points, Alex Condon added 14, and No. 23 Florida got a break from one of the toughest nonconference schedules in the country with a 102-61 victory against Saint Francis on Wednesday night.

The Gators (7-4) never trailed while dominating every aspect of their first home game in nearly a month.

Florida made 15 of its first 20 shots while building a 20-point lead and enjoyed enough of a cushion that coach Todd Golden was able to get his bench extended minutes.

Students started chanting for 7-foot-9 center Olivier Rioux with more than six minutes to play. The world’s tallest teenager — standing 15 inches taller than any of his opponents — entered in the final minutes and got a dunk for his first collegiate field goal.

Rueben Chinyelu added 12 points and 11 rebounds for Florida. Boogie Fland and Urban Klavzar chipped in 11 points apiece for the defending national champions, who have losses to three teams now ranked in the top five: Arizona, Duke and UConn.

Saint Francis (2-10) lost by at least 25 points for the seventh time this season. The Red Flash entered the game ranked 361st out of 365 Division I teams in KenPom ratings, making them the worst team to visit the O’Connell Center in the KenPom era (since 1996-97).

The Red Flash entered the game as 45 ½-point underdogs according to BetMGM Sportsbook and trailed by as many as 25 in the first half. The Gators stretched their lead to 61-31 shortly after the break and piled on from there.

Skylar Wicks, a senior attending his fifth school, led Saint Francis with 22 points. He took 22 of the team’s 63 shots.

• • •

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Week 16 is upon us and it's time for another edition of 'The Fantasy Film Room' with Matt Harmon and Nate Tice. The dynamic duo identify matchups that have them stressed in Week 16. Tice also provides 'fantasy watch guide' for the top prospects in this year's CFP. The two then preview a massive divisional TNF matchup between the Los Angeles Rams and Seattle Seahawks. Joel Smyth then joins the show to share his 5 players that you need to keep an eye on in fantasy this weekend.

(3:30) - Fantasy Fallout: Tua benched in Miami, Quinn Ewers takes over as QB1

(17:30) - Fantasy Film Room: Matchups we are STRESSED about in Week 16

(18:30) - Lions WRs vs. Steelers DBs

(29:10) - Chargers WRs vs. Cowboys defense

(35:40) - Terry McLaurin vs Quinyon Mitchell

(39:25) - Cowboys WRs vs. Chargers DBs

(46:25) - Jaguars WRs vs. Broncos DBs

(51:20) - CFP fantasy prospects to know

(1:07:40) - TNF preview: Rams @ Seahawks

(1:18:15) - Buzz is Building: 5 players to watch in Week 16

Jason Jung

🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTube

Check out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at yahoosports.tv

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The Sporting News | Matt Sullivan: The Yankees have yet to make a major splash this winter, even as more than one key member of the bullpen has left the team — more on that in a moment. We get a bit of good news on that front, with reports that New York is one of two finalists for NPB ace Tatsuya Imai, whose posting deadline comes on New Year’s Day. The Yankees are supposedly facing off with the Cubs for Imai’s talented right arm, and while it feels like the club could outbid the Cubbies on paper, Chicago’s history with Japanese starters could give them an edge. Then again, Imai has said on his own that he would prefer a team without existing former NPBers.

New York Post | Greg Joyce: One could argue that even for all the benefits Yankee Stadium presents, the Yankees are still a little too lefty-heavy. The club features five players expected to be every day regulars that hit from the left side, plus the possibility of bringing back Cody Bellinger in free agency. An attempt to re-balance the lineup may be a priority for the organization, and that raises questions about the trade value of Jazz Chisholm Jr., coming off the best season of his career and with just a single year of team control left.

MLB.com | Anthony DiComo: By now you’ve likely heard that Luke Weaver has agreed to a two-year, $22 million contract with the New York Mets, the third former Yankee closer to go across town. Weaver joins Devin Williams and now-starter Clay Holmes on the Mets’ pitching staff, looking to bounce back from a season where he seemed to battle a bum leg for much of the second half.

Bayern met twice with Guéhi reps (Fabrizio Romano on Men In Blazers via @iMiaSanMia)

Bayern held two meetings with the representatives of Marc Guéhi. The Englishman is a target for Bayern, but much will depend on what will happen with Dayot Upamecano. If the latter extends his contract, then Guéhi could look for a different solution. If Upa decides to leave, the Englishman would be a serious name for the club. At the moment, there are 4 clubs realistically in the conversation for Guéhi: Bayern, Liverpool, Real Madrid and Barcelona.

Madrid Universal captured more of Romano’s report, which details all of the elite clubs angling for the Crystal Palace defender:

Real Madrid are very much in the race for the 25-year-old Crystal Palace captain, but face stiff competition from arch-rivals Barcelona, who have already made a call to the player’s camp asking for information.

Moreover, Bayern Munich are also very much in the hunt and have already held two meetings with Guehi’s entourage to explore the possibility of a summer transfer. However, any move might depend on the future of Dayot Upamecano, with the Bayern Munich defender, another target for Real Madrid, still in negotiations over a contract renewal.

Finally, Premier League champions Liverpool are also in the race to sign Guehi, having missed out on his capture late last summer. Recent reports from England have suggested that even Manchester City are considering a move for the former Chelsea prospect.

As reported, Bayern Munich’s entire focus on Guéhi could shift if Upamecano re-ups. However, there will also be a big possibility that Kim Min-jae will want to leave Bavaria next summer. If so, Bayern Munich could go deeper into its pursuit of Guéhi or begin looking more closely at Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck as well.

United, Spurs want El Mala (Get German Football News)

FC Köln youngster Said El Mala is on Bayern Munich’s radar, but Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United could be an impediment to the 19-year-old moving to Bavaria:

The Wednesday print edition of Germany’s Sport Bild tabloid reports that Manchester United and Tottenham have lodged concrete inquiries about 1. FC Köln starlet Said El Mala. The 19-year-old appears set to remain in the Bundesliga for the duration of the season, but the two Premier League outfits are prepared to start discussing a summer transfer. Both English clubs are interested in a purchase in the €30m to €40m range.

Might be work a look (YouTube — BBC Sport)

If you are so inclined, this might be of interest to you:

Barca eyeing Bastoni (ESPN)

FC Barcelona could be eyeing Inter Milan center-back Alessandro Bastoni:

Barcelona have made an enquiry regarding Internazionale center back Alessandro Bastoni, according to Matteo Moretto. It is reported that Barca’s sporting director Deco recently travelled to Milan to discuss a potential move for the 26-year old, with the Blaugrana keen to sign the Italy defender due to uncertainty over the situation of Ronald Araújo, who is currently taking a mental health break. A January deal is expected to be difficult to secure, but the LaLiga side are exploring alternatives, with Aston Villa defender Pau Torres also on their shortlist, according to ESPN sources.

Bastoni had been linked to Bayern Munich in the past, but has not been mentioned to be on the club’s radar for quite a while.

Fire to make play for Lewy? (ESPN)

On Wednesday, we saw that Inter Miami might have interest in FC Barcelona striker and former Bayern Munich star Robert Lewandowski, but for that to happen, Lionel Messi will have to outmaneuver the Chicago Fire, who hold Lewandowski’s discovery rights:

The Chicago Fire have held talks with Barcelona’s 39-year-old striker Robert Lewandowski over a move to MLS, says the BBC. Lewandowski is out of contract in the summer and has shown a desire to play in America before he retires.

BVB nearing new deals for Can, Brandt? (Sport Bild via Get German News)

Borussia Dortmund looks to be close to re-upping both Emre Can and Julian Brandt:

⚫️🟡 Borussia Dortmund are close to finalising the contract extensions of Emre Can and Julian Brandt. (Sport Bild)

The pair will be extend until 2028, and there will be little change in their current salary

If you are looking for more Bayern Munich and German national team coverage, check out the latest episodes of Bavarian Podcast Works, which you can get on Acast, Spotify, Apple, or any leading podcast distributor…

Chelsea have discovered their route to Wembley after the EFL Cup semi-final draw paired the Blues with either Arsenal or Crystal Palace in the last four.

Enzo Maresca’s side will host the first leg at Stamford Bridge before heading on the road for the return fixture, with a place in the March final on the line.

The Blues booked their semi-final spot with an underwhelming 3–1 away victory over League One side Cardiff City.

That win followed earlier successes over Lincoln City and Wolverhampton Wanderers, completing a testing but productive run to the final four from the third round for Chelsea.

Attention now turns to North London, where Arsenal will host FA Cup holders Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium next week to determine Chelsea’s opponent.

Palace arrive with confidence after lifting the first major trophy in their history last summer, but they remain the only semi-finalist never to have won the League Cup.

On the other side of the draw, Manchester City will face reigning champions Newcastle United in a heavyweight semi-final clash.

Yesterday, City progressed with a controlled 2–0 win over Brentford, while Newcastle edged Fulham 2–1 in dramatic fashion.

Yoane Wissa opened the scoring before Sasa Lukic equalised for Fulham, only for youngster Lewis Miley to strike a late winner and keep Newcastle’s hopes of retaining the trophy alive.

The Magpies will host the first leg of that tie.

The first legs of both semi-finals will be played in the week commencing January 12, with the return fixtures scheduled for the week beginning February 2.

The final will take place on Sunday, March 22.

Manchester City have lifted the EFL Cup a record eight times, and will be favourites to clinch it again.

However, the Magpies, one-time winners, are eager to make up for a domestic disappointment and will take the fight to Guardiola’s men.

Chelsea have lifted the League Cup five times, most recently in 2015. This is likely their best chance at silverware this season.

Meanwhile, Arsenal won it twice and will be eyeing the title again, but must first get past Oliver Glasner’s tricky Eagles.

Why the Colorado vs Portland State men’s basketball game was played without fans originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Going into the matchup with Portland State, Colorado did not need a reminder of how well this season had begun. At 9–1, the Buffaloes were already off to one of the program’s strongest starts in recent years, building momentum through consistency rather than flash.

What they did not expect was the setting.

Due to high winds, power outages, and hazardous road conditions around Boulder, the CU Events Center was closed to the public, forcing Colorado to play without fans. The empty arena created an unusual backdrop, removing the familiar energy of a home crowd and leaving only the sounds of the game itself.

Colorado carried a two-point lead into halftime, and the game remained close for much of the second half. Without crowd noise, every possession felt magnified, and neither team was able to create sustained separation early. Execution, rather than emotion, dictated the pace.

The Buffaloes eventually pulled away behind balanced scoring and steady contributions from their bench. Freshman guard Isaiah Johnson led Colorado with 20 points in 27 minutes, providing a consistent scoring presence as the game tightened. Johnson finished 4 of 10 from the field, knocked down a three, and added three assists.

MORE: Former LSU star Livvy Dunne reveals her ambitions for the big screen

Freshman forward Alon Michaeli also made a significant impact off the bench, recording nine points and a team-high 10 rebounds in 24 minutes. Michaeli’s work on the glass helped Colorado extend possessions and limit Portland State’s second-chance opportunities, particularly during key stretches of the second half.

Colorado shot 48 percent from the field and finished with 35 rebounds in the 84–73 win. The Buffaloes used depth and composure to close the game, leaning on contributions throughout the rotation rather than relying on a single scoring run.

For Portland State, the empty arena removed one of the usual challenges of playing in Boulder. For Colorado, it demanded self-generated focus, something the Buffaloes handled with control and patience.

Colorado will now travel to Phoenix to take on Stanford on Saturday.

More news:

• Shedeur Sanders makes rookie history and insists every moment came from God
• Brian Hartline sends a message to Chris Henry Jr. after choosing Ohio State
• Deion Sanders expected to lose key staff member to Group of Five school

Welcome to Midnight Mania!

Let’s start the night off by taking a look back over the three biggest stories of Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2025.

1. Merry Cut-Mas! UFC releases four fighters in latest roster purge, including ‘Slava Claus’: I cannot argue any of these cuts, but it’s a bit of a bummer that Borshchev was cut after taking his final UFC fight on like five day’s notice.
2. Middleweight madness: Two huge fights added to UFC 326 in March: Why are Reinier de Ridder and Paulo Costa fighting on the same event not against one another? Silly sport.
3. Ex-UFC fighter who bet entire purse on himself (and lost) tests positive for cocaine: She don’t lie, she don’t lie, she don’t lie — cocaine.

Insomnia

Jake Paul has been consistent about threatening to sue anyone who claims his fights are fixed, and Deontay Wilder is no exception. If Paul makes it to round four on Friday, I’ll suddenly have my suspicions …

This column loves and supports an active champion who doesn’t talk about changing weight classes.

I saw several posts online questioning if Ariel Helwani is “exploiting” Death Sentence by failing to inject some reality into a clearly delusional and unwell person. It’s an interesting question, but I would argue that in combat sports, exploitation is a structural pillar that can’t really be avoided.

Some reactions to PFL champ Movlid Khaybulaev’s drug test failure for EPO. A lot of people (including Conor McGregor in a deleted tweet) are coming at Team Khabib over this latest drug testing stir …

Being a combat sports fan will have you paying extra attention to the international oil trade.

I would love to be a fly on the wall for a Fares Ziam vs. Justin Gaethje sparring session.

A bit of good news and a Cool Cain photo:

Slips, rips, and KO clips

Highly touted prospect Elshod Anvarov looks composed and powerful in his pro debut.

There will never be another Prince Naseem.

Both in and out of the Octagon, 2026 was the year of the spinning elbow.

Random Land

Did you watch Welcome To Derry? As an It reader, I enjoyed it, but this makeup process is cool regardless.

Midnight Music: Punk, 1977

Sleep well Maniacs! More martial arts madness is always on the way.

Dragons will do all they can to prevent talisman Aaron Wainwright following Jac Morgan and Dewi Lake in leaving Wales.

The number eight is out of contract at the end of the season and the Rodney Parade club know he will have suitors.

The 28-year-old turned down other offers in favour of signing a new – and lucrative – Dragons deal in January 2024.

There is a concern that a fresh rugby challenge could appeal to Wainwright, who has won 62 caps, but the club will ensure that any exit would not be for financial reasons.

"Waino is really important to us and we are having chats about retaining him," said head coach Filo Tiatia.

• A 364-day wait for a win - now Dragons are hungry for more
• Gloucester boss 'wants strong Wales' despite double raid
• Dragons sign South African prop Dlamini

Wainwright has made 127 appearances and consistently been Dragons' stand-out player.

He was man of the match on Sunday in the 23-21 comeback victory against Lyon that ended a near year-long winless streak, making nine tackles, 14 carries and having several key moments on the gain line.

"We want to keep him here, he is a Gwent man and his performance last weekend showed how important he is, not only for Dragons but Wales," said Tiatia.

"He is a beautiful man and inspirational in the way that he does things – he is uniquely Aaron Wainwright, he understands what he is about and what he brings. We want to keep him in the building."

Dragons are keen to establish his plans for the future in the coming weeks before pressing on with recruitment in January.

The Rodney Parade club, who signed a new Professional Rugby Agreement with the Welsh Rugby Union in May, will have an increased playing budget of approximately £6m next season.

Wainwright's main rival for the number eight jersey is currently Mackenzie Martin, who is on loan from Cardiff and is out of contract next summer.

Tongan international Solomone Funaki joined in the summer of 2024 but has not made a competitive appearance because of a serious knee injury.

With Dragons without a United Rugby Championship win since the opening weekend of last season, there is an acknowledgement that the squad needs to be strengthened in key areas.

Tiatia saddened by Ospreys exits

The Wainwright situation is different to the position that Ospreys find themselves in because of uncertainty over their future due to Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) plans to cut to three clubs, with just one in the west.

Morgan and Lake will move to Gloucester next summer and fellow internationals Kieran Hardy and Dan Edwards have also been linked with English clubs.

Tiatia is an Ospreys legend after helping them to league titles in 2007 and 2010, plus the Anglo-Welsh Cup in 2008.

"With Dewi and Jac, you are really disappointed that they have taken up another opportunity but also totally understand why," said the former All Blacks forward.

"I messaged Jac to say it was sad to see him leave the Ospreys but that I understood and he replied back.

"I do feel for our clubs not able to keep our best players in Wales, it's definitely a challenge and there could be a few more doing the same thing.

"We just need to make sure we keep our best players here in Wales to help grow the game."

LOS ANGELES, CALIF. - The USC Trojans defeated the UTSA Roadrunners, 97-70, at Galen Center on December 17, 2025 and The Sporting Tribune's Amber Rodriguez was there to capture the following images.

Amber Rodriguez - The Sporting Tribune

USC forward Ezra Ausar (2) dribbles during a Big Ten Conference college basketball game against the UTSA Roadrunners, Wednesday December 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, Calif.

Amber Rodriguez - The Sporting Tribune

USC guard Ryan Cornish (9) shoots the ball during a Big Ten Conference college basketball game against the UTSA Roadrunners, Wednesday December 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, Calif.

Amber Rodriguez - The Sporting Tribune

USC guard Jerry Easter II (8) defends during a Big Ten Conference college basketball game against the UTSA Roadrunners, Wednesday December 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, Calif.

Amber Rodriguez - The Sporting Tribune

USC guard Jordan Marsh (7) goes up for a shot during a Big Ten Conference college basketball game against the UTSA Roadrunners, Wednesday December 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, Calif.

Amber Rodriguez - The Sporting Tribune

USC guard Jordan Marsh (7) shoots the ball during a Big Ten Conference college basketball game against the UTSA Roadrunners, Wednesday December 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, Calif.

Amber Rodriguez - The Sporting Tribune

USC guard Jordan Marsh (7) celebrates during a Big Ten Conference college basketball game against the UTSA Roadrunners, Wednesday December 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, Calif.

Amber Rodriguez - The Sporting Tribune

USC guard Chad Baker-Mazara (4) reacts during a Big Ten Conference college basketball game against the UTSA Roadrunners, Wednesday December 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, Calif.

Amber Rodriguez - The Sporting Tribune

USC guard Terrance Williams II (5) makes a pass during a Big Ten Conference college basketball game against the UTSA Roadrunners, Wednesday December 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, Calif.

Amber Rodriguez - The Sporting Tribune

USC forward Jacob Cofie (6) dunks during a Big Ten Conference college basketball game against the UTSA Roadrunners, Wednesday December 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, Calif.

Amber Rodriguez - The Sporting Tribune

USC guard Chad Baker-Mazara (4) celebrates during a Big Ten Conference college basketball game against the UTSA Roadrunners, Wednesday December 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, Calif.

Amber Rodriguez - The Sporting Tribune

USC guard Jordan Marsh (7) defends during a Big Ten Conference college basketball game against the UTSA Roadrunners, Wednesday December 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, Calif.

Amber Rodriguez - The Sporting Tribune

USC guard Ryan Cornish (9) passes the ball during a Big Ten Conference college basketball game against the UTSA Roadrunners, Wednesday December 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, Calif.

Amber Rodriguez - The Sporting Tribune

USC forward Jacob Cofie (6) dunks during a Big Ten Conference college basketball game against the UTSA Roadrunners, Wednesday December 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, Calif.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — The Sioux Falls boys and girls basketball teams are gearing up for the third annual Presidents Bowl at the Sanford Pentagon.

Jefferson, Washington, Roosevelt, and Lincoln coaches and select student athletes came together on Tuesday afternoon for a luncheon event, expressing excitement to play for a good cause in a big stage environment so early in the season. The two-day event will run on December 29-30 to raise money to benefit the students of all four schools.

“Most of it is the guys have grown up against each other and they know each other really well and like competing against each other,” Jefferson head coach Tim Reck said. “They can have bragging rights, East Side, West Side whatever you want to talk about. It’s always fun to see those guys compete.”

The President’s Bowl will feature games from 11am to 5pm on the 29th and 30th.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — Augustana hockey is coming off of a weekend sweep over No. 14 Minnesota State and enters the back half of the season with the youth of the team helping drive its success.

Freshman Leo Bulgakov and Jacob Jastrzebski have both been constants in the Vikings lineup this year. Bulgakov leads the team in goals with seven while Jastrzebski leads the team in points with five goals and nine assists. The underclass success has met strong upperclassmen such as Brett Meerman and Hunter Bischoff in stride.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com.

The older brother of Los Angeles Rams star Puka Nakua was arrested this weekend for allegedly taking the car of Los Angeles Lakers rookie Adou Thiero without his consent, according to NBC 4 Los Angeles.

Two men, identified as 27-year-old Samson Nacua and 27-year-old Trey Rose, were reportedly arrested for taking the car. Deputies were reportedly called to the 1 Hotel in West Hollywood after the vehicle was tracked to the hotel.

The pair had allegedly valeted the car and entered the hotel. They were reportedly arrested after deputies reviewed the security footage and identified them.

The exact details of the alleged car theft remain unclear.

Jack Gorman/UFL via Getty Images

Like his brother, Samson Nakua is a former BYU football player who also spent time in college at Utah, totaling 1,344 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns across five seasons. While Puka went on to become one of the NFL's top receivers with the Rams, Samson hasn't made an NFL appearance.

Samson signed with the Indianapolis Colts after going unselected in the 2022 NFL Draft but didn't make the team's 53-man roster. He got another opportunity before the 2024 season with the New Orleans Saints but again didn't make the team. His professional appearances consist of stints with the USFL's Pittsburgh Maulers and the UFL's Michigan Panthers.

His time with the Panthers saw him suspended a game for slapping a fan.

Put generously, it has been an interesting week for the Nacua family. Puka raised no shortage of eyebrows when he tried to get Kick streamers Adin Ross and N3on into the Rams' practice facility during a short week, only to be angrily shut down by head coach Sean McVay, then got caught livestreaming from a postgame locker room against his teammates' wishes.

On Tuesday, Nacua went onto Ross' stream and made comments about NFL officials guaranteed to land him a fine from the league. He also pledged to perform a touchdown dance using the streamer's "Jewish emote," which plays into antisemitic tropes.

As for Thiero, he spent his college career at Kentucky and Arkansas before getting selected 36th overall by the Brooklyn Nets and landing with the Lakers in the trade that sent Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets. He has appeared in nine games for the Lakers, averaging 5.8 minutes with nine career points.

ATLANTA, Ga.-Thomas County Central entered the night in search of state championship No. 7 after what became a slightly delayed Class 5A state semifinal, which was played just last week.

On a short turnaround, the Yellow Jackets didn’t let any of that faze them against Gainesville on Wednesday night. Thomas County Central received an all-time performance from running back Christian Lawrence as they rolled past Gainesville, 62-21, for the GHSA’s Class 5A state championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Lawrence, a Wake Forest signee, rushed for 380 yards on 39 carries and scored five touchdowns, setting a Georgia state record on the night.

The Yellow Jackets’ victory capped the GHSA’s week of state championships hosted in downtown Atlanta, giving the program its seventh title with the six others won in 1992, 1993, 1994, 1996, 1997 and 2023.

Thomas County Central struck first on the scoreboard as Jaylen Johnson connected on a scoring pass to wide receiver Gary Pringle in the first quarter. Johnson wasn’t done scoring in the opening quarter as the signal caller barreled his way in for an 8-yard score to put the Yellow Jackets ahead 14-0.

Gainesville finally get on the scoreboard in the second quarter when Kharim Hughley (Clemson commitment) connected with Cameron James (Furman signee) on a screen pass that the wide receiver took 37 yards to cut the deficit in half.

The Yellow Jackets would regain control going into halftime, adding one more touchdown via a Lawrence run to head into intermission ahead 21-7.

Thomas County Central would open the second half with possession and capped it off with a Lawrence touchdown run to put the Yellow Jackets ahead with a commanding 28-7 lead.

It had looked like Gainesville would respond when Legend Wilmont took the ensuing kickoff back 99 yards to the endzone, but officials convened and said an inadvertent whistle was blown, forcing a re-kick and taking points off the board for the Red Elephants.

How to Follow Georgia High School Football

For Georgia high school football fans looking to keep up with scores around the nation, staying updated on the action is now easier than ever with the Rivals High School Scoreboard. This comprehensive resource provides real-time updates and final scores from across the Peach State, ensuring you never miss a moment of the Friday night frenzy. From nail-biting finishes to dominant performances, the Rivals High School Scoreboard is your one-stop destination for tracking all the high school football excitement across the state of Georgia.

As the Los Angeles Chargers (10-4) prepare to take on the Dallas Cowboys (6-7-1) from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Dec. 21, the Bolts have revealed an absolutely loaded injury report after the first day of practice ahead of the Week 16 matchup.

Chargers Injury Report

Per the Dec. 17 injury report, the Chargers have 12 players listed with varying participation tags attached.

Despite being on the 12-man report, quarterback Justin Herbert (Left Hand) and linebacker Troy Dye (Hip) both recorded full participation, which is a promising sight as the season winds down.

As for those with "limited participation" tags, that list includes outside linebacker Bud DuPree (Back), guard/tackle Trey Pipkin III (Ankle), defensive lineman Teair Tart (Shin), wide receivers Tre' Harris (Hip) and Quentin Johnson (Groin), and defensive back Elijah Molden (Hamstring).

wednesday's #LACvsDAL injury report pic.twitter.com/rWb2lSEoxa

— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) December 17, 2025

Veteran wide receiver Keenan Allen and outside linebacker Khalil Mack did not participate on Wednesday, as those two were given a rest day and the indicating their statuses are not considered injury-related. Wide receiver Derius Davis (Ankle) and safety RJ Mickens (Shoulder) also did not participate on Wednesday.

Obviously, the list will get smaller as the week moves along, but the startling number of injuries to start the week is certainly less than ideal.

The Chargers and Cowboys are expected to kick off on Sunday at 10 a.m. PT and will be broadcast on FOX.

This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: Chargers vs Cowboys: LA debuts loaded Wednesday injury report

We are still on track for Notre Dame to have two unanimous All-Americans with Jeremiyah Love and Leonard Moore after the release of the Sporting News All-American teams today. An extra cherry on top was Jadarian Price’s selection as a first team kick returner.

From the ND press release:

Love, Moore, Price Named 2025 The Sporting News First-Team All-Americans 

SOUTH BEND, Ind. – Junior running back Jeremiyah Love, sophomore cornerback Leonard Moore and junior running back and kick returner Jadarian Price have been named 2025 The Sporting News First-Team All-Americans. Love is slated at the running back position, Moore is in the defensive back spot and Price is the first-team kick returner. 

The Sporting News All-America team is one of the five All-America honors that contribute towards consensus and unanimous All-America status. This marks Love’s and Moore’s fourth such first-team All-America honor of the season. It is Price’s first All-America First Team selection, also having been selected to the Walter Camp All-America Second Team and Associated Press All-America Third Team. 

All three Irish 2025 Sporting News All-Americans were finalists for national awards in 2025. Love, the winner of the Doak Walker Award for the best running back in college football and the recipient of the 2025 Disney Spirit Award for the most inspirational figure in college football, was a finalist for the Heisman Trophy, the Walter Camp Player of the Year and the Maxwell Award. Moore was a finalist for the Nagurski Trophy and the Paycom Jim Thorpe Award, and Price was a finalist for the Hornung Award and the Jet Award. Love and Price together are finalists for the Pony Express Award, honoring the top duo in college football.

Jeremiyah Love

This season, Love posted 199 rushes for 1,372 yards and 18 touchdowns, adding 27 receptions for 280 yards and three touchdowns. He averaged 6.9 yards per rush on the season. Even more impressive, he did it all while sharing a backfield with fellow running back Jadarian Price, who himself totaled 113 rushes for 674 yards and 11 touchdowns. 

Six FBS players rushed for 1,300 yards during the 2025 regular season. Love is the only player on that list who shares the backfield with another running back who has also rushed for at least 600 yards this season.

He was the only player in the nation to rank in the top three in scoring, total touchdowns and yards from scrimmage to conclude the regular season. 

Love was the only player in the country to both own more than 1,100 rushing yards on the season and average 6.6 or more yards per carry. 

At the end of the regular season, Love continued to rank as one of the most outstanding players in college football, ranking second nationally in scoring (10.5), second in total points (126), second in total touchdowns (21) third in rushing touchdowns (18), fourth in rushing yards (1,372), fifth in rushing yards per game (114.3), fifth in yards per carry (6.89) and fifth in all-purpose yards (137.67). 

Love posted eight carries for 171 yards and three touchdowns in the 70-7 win over Syracuse, averaging 21.4 yards per carry. He is just the third player since 1996 to have 170 or more rushing yards and three touchdowns on eight carries or less (Clyde Edwards-Helaire, 11/23/19 vs. Arkansas and Desmond Ridder, 10/24/20 vs. SMU). 

In Notre Dame’s 49-20 win over Stanford, Love rushed for a touchdown on Notre Dame’s opening drive, making him Notre Dame’s single-season leader in total touchdowns (21), surpassing the legendary Jerome Bettis’ 20 in 1991. The rushing touchdown was also Love’s 18th of the season on the ground, tying Audric Estimé (2023) for most rushing touchdowns in a single season in Notre Dame history. He is the first player in program history to have multiple seasons with 17 or more rushing touchdowns.

This season, Love was named the Associated Press National Player of the Week and the Doak Walker National Running Back of the Week for his impressive performance against No. 20 USC. Love racked up 228 rushing yards on 24 carries to average 9.5 yards per carry in a 34-24 win over USC in the Jeweled Shillelagh rivalry contest. The 228 rushing yards Love put up against USC are the most for a Notre Dame player in a single game in Notre Dame Stadium’s 513-game history. 

Love became the first player in program history to collect two 90-yard rushing touchdowns in a career with a 98-yard effort against Indiana in the College Football Playoff in 2024 and a 94-yard score at Boston College in 2025. 

Leonard Moore

Moore, also a semifinalist for the Bednarik Award and the Lott IMPACT Trophy, ended the regular season with five total interceptions through 10 games played, ranking second in the country in interceptions per game (0.5). He also ranked third nationally in total interceptions (5) and eighth nationally in passes defended per game (1.2).

He was first among all starting Power 4 cornerbacks in coverage grade (92.6) and first in defensive grade (92.0) according to Pro Football Focus. Because of his lockdown abilities, Moore was only targeted by opposing quarterbacks on 12.06 percent of coverage snaps in which he was on the field. For every reception he allowed this season, he posted 15.31 coverage snaps.

At the midway point of the 2025 season, Moore had already made a statement, earning seven midseason first-team All-America honors, including by The Associated Press, The Sporting News, CBS Sports, The Athletic, Sports Illustrated, Pro Football Focus and Athlon Sports. 

In just 10 games played this season, Moore has posted five interceptions, including a 46-yard pick six. He has posted 12 total passes defended, 31 tackles, seven pass breakups and a forced fumble. With Moore’s help, at the end of the regular season, Notre Dame led the nation in interceptions (tied – 21 total INTs), and ranked fourth in turnover margin (1.08), ninth in team sacks (2.92), 11th in rushing defense (99.3), 13th in scoring defense (17.6) and 13th in team passing efficiency defense (108.80).

Moore’s fourth interception of the season came on a 46-yard pick six in Notre Dame’s 70-7 win over Syracuse. Moore’s touchdown, the first of his career, put the Irish up 21-0 before the offense even had a chance to take the field. 

Two of Moore’s interceptions came in the same game vs. Boise State, a career-best performance. For his performance that week, he was named the Walter Camp FBS Defensive Player of the Week and the Paycom Jim Thorpe Award Defensive Back of the Week. He became the first Notre Dame player to have multiple interceptions in the same game since 2023 (Xavier Watts). 

The 2024 FWAA Freshman Defensive Player of the Year, Moore entered the 2025 season with several accolades, as he was named to the Preseason All-America First Team lists by Walter Camp, The Sporting News, the Associated Press, The Athletic, ESPN, CBS Sports, Athlon Sports and Phil Steele. He was been named to watch lists for the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, Paycom Jim Thorpe Award, Chuck Bednarik Award and Lott IMPACT Trophy. 

Jadarian Price

Price is one of the most versatile players in college football, a force at running back and a difference-maker as a kickoff returner. Price is a finalist for the Hornung Award, recognizing the most versatile player in college football, and the Jet Award, recognizing the top returner in the country. He has rushed 113 times for 674 yards and 11 touchdowns, with six receptions for 87 yards and two touchdowns, as well as 12 kickoff returns for two touchdowns and a 37.5 kickoff return average. Both of his kickoff return touchdowns have gone for 100 yards. 

At the end of the regular season, Price led all FBS players in kickoff return average (37.5) and kickoff return touchdowns (2), and ranked ninth in total touchdowns (15).

Price was the only player in the nation with two 100-yard kickoff return touchdowns this season. One came vs. Purdue, and one vs. USC.

Price is the first Notre Dame player ever with multiple kick return touchdowns of 100 yards and just the fourth Notre Dame player since at least 1996 to return multiple kickoffs for touchdowns in the same season. His most recent was just the fifth kick in program history to be returned 100 yards for a touchdown with two coming from Price this season.

Price is now tied for second all-time in kickoff returns for touchdowns in Notre Dame history with three. He joins Tim Brown, Allen Rossum and CJ Sanders for second all-time, trailing only Raghib Ismail’s five. Price is just the third player in program history to return multiple kickoffs for touchdowns against a single team during their career (Raghib Ismail – Rice, Michigan; Paul Castner – Kalamazoo), as he also returned a kickoff for a touchdown vs. USC in 2023.

VERMILLION, S.D. (USD) — South Dakota basketball picked up its sixth win in the Sanford Coyote Sports Center Wednesday night 80-71 over Dakota State.

Isaac Bruns led the Yotes in scoring with 23 points, his sixth straight game with 20+, on 5-of-10 shooting and went 12-of-16 from the free throw line. Cameron Fens notched his second straight double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds.

Jordan Crawford added 15 points, five rebounds and three steals, while Shey Eberwein chipped in 11 points off the bench.

Behind a 53.1 shooting percentage in the first half, the Trojans held a 39-33 lead at the intermission. Dakota State scored 32 of its 39 points in the paint and held USD to 10-of-25 (40.0%) in the opening 20 minutes. The Coyotes, who ranks top-10 in the NCAA in free throw attempts and makes, shot an uncharacteristic 12-of-24 from the charity stripe in the first half. Bruns paced the Yotes with 11 points, but the Trojans’ Nathan Ojukwu poured in 18 points in the first.

The Yotes came out of the halftime break in a flurry with a 12-2 run, capped by a Crawford triple, to regain the lead, 45-41. While South Dakota held the lead for the majority of the second half, the Trojans stayed within striking distance and briefly tied the contest at 61-61 with 7:48 remaining. South Dakota would score the next six points to take back control and start a 12-2 run to extend its lead to double-digits after a steal and slam by Crawford and a triple from Eberwein.

South Dakota shot 16-for-28 (57.1%) in the second half and was 11-for-15 from the line to secure the 80-71 win over DSU. Three Coyotes in Crawford (12), Bruns (12) and Fens (10) scored in double-figures in the second half and shot a combined 64.7%.

South Dakota will hit the road for their next contest on Saturday in Manhattan, Kansas against Kansas State at 11 a.m.

Notes

• South Dakota moves to 7-6 on the season and 6-2 at home
• Isaac Bruns has now scored 20+ in six straight games
• Cameron Fens notched his second straight double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds
• USD had 12 offensive rebounds on the night, the 11^th game this season with 10+
• Jordan Crawford scored in double-digits for the second straight game and seventh time this season

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com.

Conrad Weiser (CH) 60, Daniel Boone (DBH) 18

107: David Lall (CWH) over Carson Cole (DBH) (Fall 1:03)114: Korbyn Powelson (DBH) over Kolby Kramlich (CWH) (Fall 1:13)121: Edmund Yudiski (CWH) over Leland Cannon (DBH) (Fall 1:13)139: Austin Miller (CWH) over Max Drumheller (DBH) (Fall 2:26)145: Alex McGarrigle (CWH) over Eli D`Achille (DBH) (Fall 1:23)152: Connor Sellars (CWH) over Cayden Gofus (DBH) (Fall 2:24)160: Justin McGarrigle (CWH) over Ryan Moyer (DBH) (Fall 0:54)215: Brody Inman (DBH) over Lincoln Harting (CWH) (Fall 1:21)285: Eugene Booth (CWH) over Barrett Meyer (DBH) (Fall 1:28)Note: All other matches were forfeits.

Berks Catholic (BC) 60, Tulpehocken (TUHS) 15

127: Tyden Shuman (BC) over Braydon Youse (TUHS) (Fall 0:37)172: Adam Schaaf (TUHS) over Landon Hartranft (BC) (Dec 8-2)215: Troy Ruffner (TUHS) over Nolan Hook (BC) (Fall 0:36)Note: All other matches were a forfeit.

Wyomissing 42, Oley Valley 32

107: Mikha Hasan (Oley Valley) over Rothermel Parker (Wyomissing Area) (Dec 15-11)127: Aiden Sierra (Wyomissing Area) over Christian Reed (Oley Valley) (Fall 1:23)139: Kade Yourkavitch (Wyomissing Area) over Jackson Buckner (Oley Valley) (Fall 2:07)145: Jacob Mackie (Oley Valley) over Silas Platt (Wyomissing Area) (Fall 1:43)152: Vincenzo Fick (Oley Valley) over Miles Crone (Wyomissing Area) (Fall 1:38)160: Noah Hudock (Wyomissing Area) over Chase Allan (Oley Valley) (Fall 1:06)172: Giavonni Gutierrez (Oley Valley) over Jesus Kiehne (Wyomissing Area) (Fall 1:11)189: Luis Lopez (Wyomissing Area) over Alex Linarez (Oley Valley) (Fall 0:26)215: Anthony Garipoli (Oley Valley) over Jayvion Flemming (Wyomissing Area) (Inj. time)285: Gabriel Narvez (Oley Valley) over Eli Esterbrook (Wyomissing Area) (Fall 1:00)Note: All other matches were forfeits.

Will the Chargers' Week 16 matchup with the Cowboys be on TV in your area?

Let's take a look.

After a Week 15 win over the Chiefs, the Bolts will look to improve to 11-4 and get closer to stamping their ticket to the playoffs.

Kickoff is set for 10:00 am PT, and on the call will be Adam Amin and Drew Brees.

Chargers vs. Cowboys Week 16 broadcast map

Those in the red area will be able to watch this game.

The Cowboys lead the all-time series, with an 8-5 regular-season record. The last time these two teams met was on October 16, 2023, when the Cowboys won 20-17.

Chargers vs. Cowboys game details

• Game day: Sunday, December 21, 2025
• Game time: 10:00 a.m. PT (12:00 p.m. CT / 1:00 p.m. ET)
• Location: Arlington, Texas
• Stadium: AT&T Stadium
• TV channel: FOX
• Live stream: Watch on Fubo! (Regional restrictions may apply)

What channel is Chargers vs. Cowboys on?

The game will be broadcast on FOX on Sunday afternoon.

This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: Chargers vs. Cowboys broadcast map: Will the game be on TV?

Chicago Fire are exploring a potential deal to sign Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski on a free transfer next summer.

As reported by Mundo Deportivo, the MLS club’s sporting director, Gregg Berhalter, met with the Polish international and his agent, Pini Zahavi, last Sunday in a hotel in Barcelona to discuss a potential move.

While the 37-year-old has been moved by the offer, he is not in a hurry to make a firm decision on his future.

Lewandowski’s future has been the subject of constant speculation, with his contract at Barca expiring at the end of the season.

His form and fitness levels have experienced a notable dip this season, leading to reports that Barca want to part ways with him and recruit his long-term successor in the summer transfer window.

Barca want to take stock of his situation in the coming months before deciding whether or not to renew his contract.

As for Lewandowski, he hasn’t given up hope on his continuity at Camp Nou. He is willing to take a significant pay cut and settle for a secondary role in a bid to prolong his contract for another season.

Suitors from the Saudi Pro League, MLS, and Premier League, and even AC Milan, are monitoring the former Bayern Munich star’s situation.

But the striker feels that he can compete at an elite level.

Losing a striker of his quality could be a huge loss for Barca, but his wages remain a sticking point.

However, the Catalan giants could be presented with an alternative to keep Lewandowski without hurting their financial conditions.

La Liga are said to be planning to introduce a wild-cald contract renewal for clubs, allowing the Spanish teams to extend a player’s contract without FFP limitations.

Lewandowski’s form between now and the end of the season will be a key factor in deciding his future at Barca.

Ferran Torres has apparently eclipsed him in the pecking order, bagging 13 goals in all competitions. 

Meanwhile, despite not being at his best, Lewandowski has netted eight goals in 12 La Liga games, but he has been futile in the Champions League.

Barca are also monitoring Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez as a top striker for next summer.

HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) — Mater Dei running back, Caden Thacker has committed to play football at Depauw University in Greencastle, Indiana.

The Wildcats’ standout rushed for 1,262 yard and 25 touchdowns on the ground this past season. He also hauled in 11 passes for another 110 yards.

Thacker took home a Home Team Friday play of the week and MVP for Mater Dei at the end of the year.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW).

ARLINGTON, Texas (KETK)– The Joaquin Rams fell short in the 2A D1 title on Wednesday, losing to the Hamilton Bulldogs at AT&T Stadium.

FINAL SCORE: Joaquin 7-  Hamilton 21

The Rams got off to a strong start, scoring on their first possession, but Hamilton’s defense was too much for Joaquin to overcome and the Rams were unable to score the rest of the game.

Tonight marked the second time all season where the Rams were held to seven points. However, the Rams defense held Hamilton to 21 points, the fewest the Bulldogs have scored this postseason.

Although Joaquin was unable to take home the title, their season was a success, as it was the first time the program reached the championship game.

Joaquin finished the 2025 season with an overall record of 11-5.

You can now stream KETK and FOX51 News live 24/7 on your smart TV with KETK+, our brand-new app! No antenna, cable, or satellite needed—watch for free, anytime. Just download it on your Roku, Apple TV, or Fire TV and start streaming.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com.

Bizarre Caleb Williams stat correction has Bears' QB confusing fantasy football scores originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

This is really, really, really weird.

The NFL issued a stat correction for Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams on Wednesday. The correction was issued for Week 6 (and for those not keeping score at home, it's now Week 16.

There was a play for which Williams was originally awarded a negative-5-yard rush. That's been changed to a fumble, a fumble recovery and a 0-yard rush.

And now an official stat correction that could impact your fantasy score from months ago:

Bears QB Caleb Williams is now officially credited with a fumble, a fumble recovery and a rush for 0 yards — not minus-5 — on the last play of the third quarter **in Week 6**. pic.twitter.com/7yEca76bqd

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) December 17, 2025

MORE: ACL recovery timeline impacts when Patrick Mahomes, Micah Parsons will return

One guy actually replied to that post with evidence that that would've changed his fantasy score, and thus his playoff qualification:

And here it is: The guy who lost a fantasy game in Week 6 but retroactively should win (and make the playoffs) based on today’s two-months-later stat change. https://t.co/nmu1PBK0cU

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) December 18, 2025

MORE: Bills may not win the AFC East — but they sent a clear warning to the rest of the NFL

Fantasy sites generally have it explained somewhere that they won't go back longer than a certain period of time to adjust points for stats corrections. This certainly is beyond that length.

It's a tough break for that guy above, who would've had five-tenths more of points without the negative-5 yards.

We have plenty of questions, to be sure.

Mainly: Why did this stat correction just happen 10 weeks later?

Weird stuff all around.

More NFL news:

• Jaxson Dart has a 50% head injury problem
• Trevor Lawrence had a game never before done by an NFL quarterback
• The Packers had a chance to sign an all-time great for $5 million and passed
• Tua Tagovailoa's contract looks like a nightmare
• Patrick Mahomes' injury has fans asking Tom Brady ACL question
• This Mike Tomlin horrible streak is hard to believe

HALIFAX, Nova Scotia (AP) — Ann-Renée Desbiens made 35 saves and Marie-Philip Poulin scored in the shootout to help the Montreal Victoire beat the Toronto Sceptres in the Professional Women’s Hockey League’s first-ever game in Halifax on Wednesday night.

Poulin buried the lone goal in a 10-round shootout, and Desbiens stopped all five Sceptres attempts as a sold-out crowd of 10,438 inside Scotiabank Centre cheered equally for Toronto and Montreal.

Maya Labad scored in regulation for Montreal, and Anna Kjellbin scored for Toronto.

Sceptres goalie Raygan Kirk stopped 30 shots.

It marked the first of 16 neutral-site matchups — and the first of two in Halifax — this season on the PWHL’s Takeover Tour.

The league returns to the home of the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League’s Halifax Mooseheads on Jan. 11 when the Ottawa Charge face the Boston Fleet.

Kjellbin opened the scoring at 3:26 in the first period to give the Sceptres an early lead. Labad tied it up at 12:16.

Toronto captain Blayre Turnbull almost scored the winner off her own rebound in the final seconds in regulation, but she was unable to put it past Desbiens.

Sceptres forward Emma Maltais appeared to win the game on a breakaway in overtime, but Toronto defender Renata Fast was called for interference on Montreal’s Jessica DiGirolamo moments before her shot crossed the goal line.

Victoire: Visit Vancouver on Saturday.

Sceptres: Visit New York on Sunday.

___

AP women’s hockey: https://apnews.com/hub/womens-hockey

CHICAGO (AP) — Josh Giddey scored 23 points as part of his sixth triple-double this season, Coby White added 25 and the hot-shooting Chicago Bulls beat the Cleveland Cavaliers 127-111 on Wednesday night.

Giddey had 11 rebounds and 11 assists. He also matched a career high with five 3-pointers. Nikola Vucevic added 20 points and nine rebounds in the opener of the home-and-home series.

The Bulls shot 56.2% overall and made 14 of 36 3-pointers on the way to a rather convincing win after losing eight of nine. They led by 15 in the third quarter and went on a run in the fourth to break the game back open on the way to a rare win over Cleveland. They had dropped 12 of 13 against the Cavaliers.

Donovan Mitchell led Cleveland with 32 points, but the Cavaliers fell to 15-13 with their seventh loss in 10 games, the latest troubling performance for a team considered a favorite in the Eastern Conference. They didn’t sustain their 13th loss last season until March 19.

Jaylon Tyson scored 21. Darius Garland added 15 points and six assists

The Bulls led 106-97 midway through the fourth when Vucevic nailed a 3 to spark an 11-3 run. He also had a layup and a tip-in during that stretch. Giddey broke for a layup, and White added two free throws to make it 117-100 with 4:59 remaining.

Bulls guard Ayo Dosunmu missed his third consecutive game because of a sprained right thumb. The Chicago product is fourth on the team in scoring at 15.2 points per game.

“Rest is probably going to be the best thing, but he's probably not going to have time to rest it for it to be fully healed,” coach Billy Donovan said.

The teams meet again in Cleveland on Friday. ___

AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/NBA

The 2025 Continental Classic tournament continued on the Holiday Bash edition of "AEW Dynamite," as well as the first half of "AEW Collision" with the second half airing this Saturday at a special start time of 2:30ET. The fans in Manchester, England got to see action in both the Gold and Blue Leagues, where one competitor became the first performer to be mathematically eliminated from the tournament.

That elimination came in the Blue League where Jon Moxley and Roderick Strong kicked off the action for the night. Strong walked into the match as the only man in the tournament without a single point on the board, while Moxley was looking to bounce back after two consecutive losses to Claudio Castagnoli and Konosuke Takeshita. Much like a number of the Continental Classic bouts, it was hard-hitting and it could have gone either way, especially as the match was dangerously close to hitting the 20 minute time limit. However, there was a winner and that man was the former AEW Men's World Champion as Moxley hit Strong with two Death Riders (the move, not his stablemates) to secure the victory. With the win, Strong is officially eliminated with two matches still to go. Moxley has one match left against Orange Cassidy, and he will need to win to keep his hopes of reaching Worlds End alive.

Over in the Gold League, "The Protostar" Kyle Fletcher was also looking to bounce back from his loss to "Speedball" Mike Bailey as he took on PAC. With a homefield advantage, PAC looked to use the English fans in attendance to his advantage as he was aiming to pick up his second win of the tournament, and it worked. Fletcher went for a Brainbuster on the turnbuckle but PAC escaped, who hit "The Protostar" with an Avalanche Poisonrana. Fletcher would roll perfectly into position for PAC to hit the Black Arrow for the pinfall victory. With the win, PAC joins Fletcher on six points having wrestled one match less, and with Kazuchika Okada and "Speedball" Mike Bailey also on six points, the Gold League may have to rely on tie-breakers in order to be decided.

Rounding out the action was Orange Cassidy taking on Mascara Dorada in the Blue League. The two men have become friends over the course of the tournament, but they had to put that friendship aside as they both looked to double their tally from three points to six. In the end, it was Cassidy who managed to use Dorada's speed against him as he managed snatch a quick crucifix pin to keep the CMLL star down for the victory. Cassidy now sits in joint second with Jon Moxley, who he still has to face, on six points, while Dorada remains on three points with two matches to go.

Read more: Tony Schiavone: Facts Only Hardcore Fans Know About The AEW Commentator

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Read the original article on Wrestling Inc.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Quinn Henicle looked like a quarterback making his second career start.

The Old Dominion redshirt freshman shook off a shaky start that included a fumble to score two touchdowns while leading the Monarchs to an impressive 24-10 win over South Florida in Wednesday’s StaffDNA Cure Bowl at Camping World Stadium.

ODU (10-3, 6-2 Sun Belt) won 10 games for the first time since the 2016 season.

“It was a great team effort. I thought our guys played really hard for each other,” said ODU coach Ricky Rahne. “It was a game where you had to manage your emotions. For the most part, the guys did a great job.”

Henicle earned the start after starting quarterback Colton Joseph announced he planned to enter the transfer portal on Jan. 2.

South Florida came up with the first turnover of the game when safety Jarvis Lee rushed Henicle, forcing him to fumble the football backward. It was scooped up by safety Fred Gaskin, who returned it 22 yards to the Monarchs’ 41.

It was the 11th fumble recovery on the season for USF (9-4, 6-2 American) and the 25th overall takeaway.

The Bulls drove to the ODU 10 but were forced to settle for a 28-yard field goal by kicker Nico Gramatica for a 3-0 lead.

Henicle made up for his miscue by leading the Monarchs on a 10-play drive that was capped by a 6-yard touchdown run by the redshirt freshman. It was his first rushing touchdown of the season and his fourth overall.

USF responded by quickly moving into Old Dominion territory thanks to a 42-yard completion from Gaston Moore to receiver Christian Nepture. But a busted run ended in a 48-yard field goal miss by Gramatica.

The Bulls didn’t allow another opportunity to go unfulfilled as quarterback Moore connected with receiver Jeremiah Koger on back-to-back throws, including a 31-yard touchdown pass that helped USF retake the lead at 10-7 with 7:24 left in the half.

USF was without starting quarterback Byrum Brown, who chose to opt out of Wednesday’s game but was on the sidelines helping out the coaching staff. His replacement was Moore, a transfer who spent time at Tennessee and UCF.

Moore continued the hot hand on USF’s next possession, but defensive back Brandon Crutchfield intercepted his pass to Koger on the ODU 20. It was the Monarchs’ 12th interception of the season.

Old Dominion drove to the USF 26, but a bobbled snap on a 38-yard field goal by kicker Nathanial Eichner led to a turnover on downs.

ODU took advantage of another turnover after defensive back Jerome Carter intercepted Moore on his first pass of the second half. The Monarchs scored three plays later as Trequan Jones ran untouched for a 22-yard touchdown and a 14-10 lead.

Carter would finish with a game-high two interceptions, his fifth and sixth of the season.

It was Jones’ sixth rushing touchdown of the season and it was the third lead change of the game.

USF had another opportunity to tack on points, but Gramatica missed a 39-yard field-goal attempt. It was the first time he had missed two field goals in a game in his college career.

Old Dominion drove to the USF 16-yard line, but Henicle fumbled after a brutal hit by Bulls cornerback De’Shawn Rucker. Defensive end Michael Williams III recovered the ball; however, Rucker was ejected after it was determined his hit was targeting and the Monarchs got the ball back at the USF 4.

ODU failed to convert but converted a 24-yard field goal by Eichner to push the lead to 17-10.

Henicle capped the scoring with a 51-yard touchdown run late in the game to seal the win for the Monarchs. He finished with 227 total yards of offense and two rushing touchdowns.

“He didn’t play anywhere near his best game and he was still able to will the team to win,” said Rahne. “To me, it was that run in the four-minute drive where he kept going, kept his legs going, kept dragging people. The competitiveness, the fight and the effort he had right there, not only did offensive players respond to it, but the defensive players on the sideline as well.”

His performance earned him Most Valuable Player honors.

The last time USF won a game in Orlando was in 2015. The Bulls have lost five straight games in Central Florida, including a neutral-site game vs. Memphis in Camping World Stadium in 2024.

“I love these guys and like I told them in the locker room, it’s painful as this is they these players have changed the trajectory of this program in the last three years, and I’m encouraged no matter where they go, where I go, I’m encouraged this program is going to keep climbing no matter who’s at the helm, because we build a good culture,” said USF interim coach Kevin Patrick.

Puka Nacua’s brother, Samson Nacua, was arrested for allegedly taking the SUV belonging to Los Angeles Lakers forward Adou Thiero without his consent, according to NBC Los Angeles. Another man, Trey Rose, was also arrested, and like Nacua, faces a charge of taking a vehicle without the owner’s consent.

The car was tracked to the One Hotel in West Hollywood where deputies from the Los Angeles County Sheriff's department found it. Nacua and Rose valeted the car and went into the hotel, and both suspects were arrested soon after being identified on security footage.

Nacua and Rose both remain behind bars as of this writing, according to NBCLA.

Samson and Puka Nacua played together at BYU in 2021. Samson has had a couple of stints in the NFL, as well as the USFL and UFL. Most recently, he played for the Michigan Panthers in the UFL last season.

In April, he was suspended one game for slapping a fan in the stands after a Week 5 loss to the St. Louis Battlehawks. He played nine games for Michigan last season and scored two touchdowns.

This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Puka Nacua’s brother arrested for allegedly taking Lakers player’s SUV

GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) — Green Bay’s Doug Gottlieb says he’s stepping away from his radio show to put his total focus on his coaching responsibilities.

Gottlieb has been coaching while also maintaining his national sports talk radio show since Green Bay hired him in May 2024. Gottlieb said Wednesday he plans to stop doing his radio show at the end of this week or next week, though he will continue to do a podcast.

“As of now, we’re going to take a break from it,” Gottlieb said in his news conference after Green Bay’s 67-64 victory over UC Santa Barbara. “I’ve got to have a life. I’ve got to be there for these kids. I’ve got to really dig in because we’re building something cool here.”

He called the decision “a hard one on one level for me, but a smart one.”

Gottlieb has worked as a broadcaster for about two decades, but he didn’t have any college coaching experience when Green Bay hired the former Oklahoma State guard. Green Bay made the hire while allowing Gottlieb to maintain his radio show.

Although Gottlieb says his players deserve a “fully dedicated coach,” he also believes he’s been fully dedicated to coaching even while doing his radio show. But he also wanted to make sure he’s as prepared as possible to do as much as he can for his team.

Gottlieb noted a recent example of how his two jobs interfered with each other. His radio responsibilities prevented him from making it on the team bus for a trip to Indianapolis, so he flew there on his own instead.

“I don’t think that’s what I want to do as a coach,” Gottlieb said.

Green Bay went 4-28 in Gottlieb’s first season and is 6-7 so far this year. The Phoenix have won five of their last seven games.

___

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On Tuesday, Jeremiyah Love announced his decision to leave Notre Dame a year early for the NFL Draft, so it really comes as an act of mercy that one day later, Jadarian Price announced his decision to enter the NFL Draft with a year of eligibility left on the table.

Notre Dame fans didn’t have to debate long about what it would take to keep Price in the fold for 2026, and now everyone can move on to the future of the position at Notre Dame — whatever that may look like. Regardless of what Notre Dame does at running back in 2026, it won’t come close to being as talented as it was with Love and Price.

Jadarian Price would have been the starting running back for 99% of other programs in the country. He also might have been a better running back candidate for the Heisman given his ability to return kickoffs for touchdowns. It really was an embarrassment of riches at Notre Dame.

One of the ways I judge Notre Dame players is how they performed against USC. With Price, he was a true Trojan killer as 2 of his 3 career kick returns for touchdowns came against Southern Cal.

Price is ranked as either the #2 or #3 back in the draft, and he’s expected to be selected before the end of the 2nd round.

Thanks for everything JD!

While the action kicks off Friday with Alabama and Oklahoma in an all-SEC brawl to see who faces No. 1 Indiana, the real intrigue for BBN starts Saturday.

That’s when your new head coach, Will Stein (Oregon), and defensive coordinator, Jay Bateman (Texas A&M), begin their title chases before coming to Lexington.

Do you ride with the Ducks to see Stein bring championship DNA to Lexington with him? Do you back Bateman and the Aggies because of the SEC connection? Do you hope both lose quick so they go all-in with the Cats? Or are you just rooting for pure chaos?

The future of Kentucky football is on the field this weekend. Tell us who you’re backing in the poll below.

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NCAA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Kentucky fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

This was the best the Bulls have looked since they started the season 5-0.

It started in the second quarter, when the Bulls went into a zone down 28-16 midway through the first quarter. That immediately disrupted the Cavs rhythm as the Bulls rattled off an 8-0 run to get back into the game before eventually taking a four-point lead into the second half.

The zone was effective because it kept the Cavs out of the paint, forcing them to settle for contested threes. From there, the Bulls did a nice job boxing out and preventing a top-five offensive rebounding team from getting much on the glass.

Critically, the Bulls were able to turn the Cavs over 20 times as they beat them 127-111. The Bulls’ 12 steals tied the third most of the season, and the Cavs’ 20 turnovers were their second-most in a game this season.

Tre Jones was impactful for the Bulls, especially in the first half, coming up with three steals alongside 11 points and 11 assists, and was a team-high +20. 

Isaac Okoro also made his presence felt in a significant way, cutting away from the ball, fighting for offensive rebounds and providing physicality. He chipped in 12 points on 6-of-7 shooting in 30 minutes against his former team.

Josh Giddey had his sixth triple-double (23 points, 10 rebounds, 11 assists) of the season, but more importantly, he made his threes when the Cavs left him open (5-of-11), and he threw a handful of full-court hit-ahead passes to keep the Bulls offense firing on all cylinders.

Up next: We’ll see if the Bulls can maintain their level of play when they face the Cleveland Cavaliers again on Friday in Cleveland.

Tune into the CHGO Bulls postgame live: 

In an attempt to improve their odds in the possession battle, the Bulls have tried to limit their own turnovers, box out on the defensive glass and prevent teams from getting to the foul line. They are solid in those areas, but those are more preventative when it comes to limiting their opponents’ ability to generate extra possessions, but not great at generating extra possessions of their own. 

One way to do that is by forcing turnovers, but the Bulls are 28th in the league in turnover percentage. Without high steals defenders (except Jones), that’s going to be difficult. That leaves offensive rebounding as an area where the Bulls can improve upon their 24th-ranked offensive rebounding rate.

“We’ve defined guys that get back and guys that have to go,” Billy Donovan said. “Sometimes we could have two, three, four guys that are get-back guys in the game at one time, which is really going to inhibit the opportunity to crash more people.”

The Bulls are loaded with guards that need playing time and have been pushing up the lineup. But with the addition of the Zach Collins-Jalen Smith dual-big lineup, the Bulls should be able to generate a few extra possessions, especially against smaller opponents. 

“At times, when we have three or four guys out there, it’s a little bit easier,” Donovan said. “I’m not expecting someone like Tre Jones or Coby [White] to be guys that are going to be running to the glass, because a lot of times they’re probably better suited to get back and balance the floor for us. Some of it is personnel-driven. It’s like anything else. The more people that you send [to rebound], it mirrors up pretty well. Whatever your crash rate is, generally, roughly around your offensive rebounding rate.”

The Bulls grabbed six offensive boards against the Cavs, resulting in 12 second-chance points. It’s unlikely this ever becomes a featured part of the Bulls’ identity, but a few additional chances can swing momentum over the course of a game, or chip away at their opponents’ ability to get on the break.

— Will Gottlieb

Hey, look, the Bulls were alive tonight! That’s neat.

Is Jones this team’s best player? He carried a statline of 5 points, 7 assists, 3 steals and zero turnovers into halftime. He was a plus-19 in a 4-point Bulls advantage. For as much as we (and Donovan) talk about the importance of the Bulls winning the possession battle, I think it’s safe to say that your backup guard having an infinity-esque assist-to-turnover ratio while also generating takeaways is the best embodiment of achieving that goal. Way to go, Jones.

I appreciated White attacking early, rather than going straight to his three-point shot. Especially considering his recent cold slump from deep. His first two possessions were 1) an aggressive drive left, finishing with a short midrange after creating contact and separation and 2) a good ol’ classic head-down “I’m quicker than you” drive right to the rim. Then he stepped back and found his range. Good stuff, White.

Donovan trimmed Vucevic’s minutes from his usual first-quarter allotment. Smith and Collins played well together in the second unit, and Donovan went back to it again and again. I think we should (and will…?) see more of this trend moving forward. No disrespect to Vucevic, but his backups are earning more time.

Would’ve liked to see more trips to the free-throw line for the Bulls. One of the things they did well in their first game against the Cavs: 33-36 from the line. They didn’t come close to that tonight. But they were efficient with their shots and shared the ball well. So it’s a nitpick.

Giddey took… double-digit threes? Wow. Don’t see that too often. But he hit a decent amount of them, so no complaints there. Solid Giddey game overall, with his sixth triple-double of the year.

— Matt Peck 

As expected, a much better showing by the Bulls tonight. 

The Bulls held the Cavs to ZERO offensive rebounds in the 1st half. That’s impressive. 

Smith was big for the Bulls. He and Collins played well together. 

Giddey is a menace. He attacks, attacks, and attacks some more. Made some really cool passes this game.

Jones was EVERYWHERE. The way he attacks on offense and defense is always fun to watch. It’s good they have someone they can lean on, especially when Ayo Dosunmu (thumb) is out. 

Okoro played very well. I’m sure playing against his former team inspires him to play even better, but nonetheless, he had a good game.

The bench is back to leading the Bulls. 

Patrick Lee Williams and Vucevic’s minutes were properly distributed. 

— Big Dave

Bo Bichette willing to switch positions amid free agency originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Although the Toronto Blue Jays have been aggressive to begin the 2025 offseason, they've yet to come to terms with free agent Bo Bichette who spent the first seven years of his career in Toronto.

While Bichette remains unsigned, Toronto has signed Dylan Cease, Cody Ponce and Tyler Rogers. Additionally, Shane Bieber accepted his player option to return to the Blue Jays.

Although Bichette battled a knee injury throughout Toronto's playoff run, he returned in the World Series as the Blue Jays fell just short to the Los Angeles Dodgers in seven games.

In those World Series games, Bichette was one of Toronto's strongest performers, batting .348 with eight hits, one home run and six RBI's.

Due to Bichette's injury, he played second base for Toronto, swapping places with Andres Gimenez. 

According to Mark Feinsand of MLB.com, Bichette is reportedly open to playing second base as well as shortstop, his more natural position. While Bichette is likely to be monitored by teams in need of a shortstop, adding second base as a possible position could open up his market to more teams.

The Blue Jays remain interested in bringing Bichette back, but have also been rumored to be suitors for Kyle Tucker. Additionally, Alex Bregman has been linked to Toronto, if the Blue Jays were unable to sign Bichette and Tucker.

The Boston Red Sox have been heavily linked to both Bichette and Bregman, while the Detroit Tigers and Chicago Cubs have been linked to Bregman since the 2024 offseason.

More MLB news:

• Ha-Seong Kim returns to the Braves on a one-year contract
• San Francisco has 'checked in on' Cody Bellinger amid free agency
• Baltimore Orioles eye Marlins' Edward Cabrera in a trade to shore up their rotation
• Tigers re-sign Kyle Finnegan to a two-year $19 million contract
• Seattle rumored to trade for Cardinals left-hander
• Detroit once again showing strong interest in free agent Alex Bregman

CINCINNATI (AP) — Baba Miller had 26 points and 14 rebounds, leading Cincinnati to an 88-51 victory over Alabama State on Wednesday night.

Miller and Shon Abaev each scored 13 points in the first half and the Bearcats roared to a 50-25 lead at the break. They had a run of 10-0 and two runs of 8-0.

Cincinnati (7-4) made 13 of 17 two-point tries in the first half and 12 of 15 in the second half. The Bearcats had 13 dunks. Their overall shooting percentage was 49% after making only 8 of 35 3-pointers.

Jizzle James scored 16 points for Cincinnati. He was reinstated to the team on Wednesday after being dismissed in July to attend to personal issues. James, the son of Pro Football Hall of Fame running back Edgerrin James, was Cincinnati's leading scorer last season.

A jumper by James capped a 10-0 run that gave Cincinnati a 38-point lead late in the second half. He hit a 3-pointer in the final minute that gave the Bearcats a 38-point lead for the second time.

Miller's career-high 26 points came on 11-of-12 shooting. He had his sixth double-double of the season.

Abaev, who did not score in the second half, had six rebounds and five assists.

Micah Simpson led Alabama State (3-8) with 13 points.

Cincinnati: The Bearcats head to South Carolina to play Clemson in the Greenville Winter Invitational on Sunday.

Alabama State: at Memphis on Monday.

___

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Bowl season kicked off in downtown Orlando Wednesday night and Old Dominion beat USF 24-10 to capture the StaffDNA Cure Bowl at Camping World Stadium.

ODU (10-3) head coach Ricky Rahne delivered just their second bowl win in program history and their second 10-win season since joining the FBS level.

Monarchs backup QB Quinn Henicle was named the Cure Bowl MVP. He rushed for 100 yards and passed for over 100 yards and his fourth quarter 51-yard rushing touchdown put the game away.

USF finished the season 9-4 after starting with a 6-1 record.

Bowl season in Orlando continues on December 27 with the Pop-Tarts Bowl. Kickoff on WFTV is set for 3:30 at Camping World Stadium.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.

Kevin Warren sent a shot across the bows of the forces the team sees as delaying and opposing the Chicago Bears stadium project proposed for Arlington Heights: the Bears can build in Northwest Indiana if they can’t get something done in Illinois.

In an open letter to fans, posted both on the Chicago Bears website and emailed to fans on the team’s mailing lists, the Bears President and CEO laid out the team’s thoughts and views on the progress… or lack thereof… in moving forward with government partnership in Cook County.

“Earlier this season, we shared that Arlington Heights is the only location in Cook County that meets the requirements for a world-class NFL stadium,” Warren writes.

“We still believe it offers the best and only path forward in Cook County given there are no other viable alternatives,” he continues. “Over the past several years, we have worked in good faith with Illinois leaders and made clear our commitment and readiness to invest more than $2 billion by the Chicago Bears, one of the largest private investments in state and NFL history.”

Central to the issue is the proposed domed stadium that the Bears have been planning to build on the 326 acre property that formerly housed the Arlington International Racecourse. The Bears purchased the property, located about 25 miles northwest of Soldier Field, in February of 2023 for $197.2 million dollars. The club demolished all buildings on the grounds.

It’s those grounds, and the surrounding roads, utilities, rail assets and other public facilities that the team is hoping that taxpayers will pitch in on paying for. So far? It hasn’t happened.

“We have not asked for state taxpayer dollars to build the stadium at Arlington Park,” Warren continues in his letter. “We asked only for a commitment to essential local infrastructure (roads, utilities, and site improvements) which is more than typical for projects of this size. Additionally, we sought reasonable property tax certainty to secure financing. We listened to state leadership and relied on their direction and guidance, yet our efforts have been met with no legislative partnership.”

Illinois politicians have pushed back on the idea of any type of public funding surrounding new professional sports stadiums and venues.

In a statement issued by Illinois governor JB Pritzger’s spokesperson, the governor’s office said “Suggesting the Bears would move to Indiana is a startling slap in the face to all the beloved and loyal fans who have been rallying around the team during this strong season. The Governor’s a Bears fan who has always wanted them to stay in Chicago. He has also said that ultimately they are a private business that makes their own decisions, but the Governor has also been clear that the bottom line for any private business development should not come at the full expense of taxpayers.”

The Bears’ plans call for a modern fixed-roof stadium and a mixed-use development district.

“The stakes for Illinois are significant: thousands of union jobs, year-round attractions and global events made possible by a fixed roof stadium that would provide long-term revenue for the State,” Warren continued. “For a project of this scale, uncertainty has significant consequences. Stable timelines are critical, as are predictable processes and elected leaders, who share a sense of urgency and appreciation for public partnership that projects with this level of impact require.”

“We have not received that sense of urgency or appreciation to date. We have been told directly by State leadership, our project will not be a priority in 2026, despite the benefits it will bring to Illinois,” he wrote.

Whether to seek a legitimate alternative for a Cook County stadium or to just put pressure on the politicos in Illinois, Warren dropped the “Northwest Indiana” bomb on the conversation.

“Consequently, in addition to Arlington Park, we need to expand our search and critically evaluate opportunities throughout the wider Chicagoland region, including Northwest Indiana,” he said.

“This is not about leverage. We spent years trying to build a new home in Cook County. We invested significant time and resources evaluating multiple sites and rationally decided on Arlington Heights. Our fans deserve a world-class stadium. Our players and coaches deserve a venue that matches the championship standard they strive for every day. With that in mind, our organization must keep every credible pathway open to deliver that future.”

The rest of the letter can be read on The Chicago Bears Website.

Whatever happened between Sunday’s game against Queens and tonight’s game against Longwood, Wake Forest should make sure they never do it again. Tonight’s game was basically a completely 180 from the blowout win over Queens, and the Deacs were honestly lucky that they were able to come out of that game unscathed.

On Sunday, the Deacs shot 52% from beyond the arc and made 17 3-pointers to beat the Royals by 38 points. Tonight, we saw the other side of the coin and what happens when a team that is so reliant on 3-point shooting only makes 5 in the entire game on 21% shooting. The result was about as bad as we could expect—71 points against a defense that ranks 310th in KenPom and a narrow win at home over a Q4 opponent that Wake was favored to beat by 20+ points. To be honest, this one was pretty reminiscent of how games were under the previous 2 coaching regimes.

I’m not really that bothered by the regression towards the mean on 3-point shooting—the Deacs obviously weren’t going to shoot 50+% from beyond the arc in every game. That being said, I am a little confused at the gameplan of chucking a bunch of 3’s against a team that has one of the worst defenses in the nation and not a single contributor over 6-8 instead of finding a way to get the ball into the paint to generate some easy baskets. In the first half, the Deacs shot the ball 30 total times—18 of those shots came from beyond the arc. With Wake only making 4 of those 18 attempts, they finished the half with just 30 points (2nd lowest in the first half this season) and shot 33% from the floor for the half. The Deacs trailed at the half 30-34. At home. To Longwood.

The gameplan was adjusted at halftime, and the Deacs shot just 6 3-pointers in the remainder of the game, making just 1. The newfound emphasis on attacking the paint worked out well for the offense—Wake scored 41 points in the second half on 50% shooting from the field, took 24 free throws, and scored 18 points in the paint. Juke Harris scored 11 of his team high 19 points in the 2nd half, with 7 of those coming from the charity stripe. The 1 3-pointer Wake made in the second half ended up being the difference in the game, with Myles Colvin hitting a huge shot with just 49 seconds remaining to give Wake a 3-point lead. Unfortunately, the game was indeed that close.

Shot selection wasn’t the only issue for the Deacs in this one. Maybe it was a function of playing their 7th Q4 game at home this season, but the overall energy and focus from the team just was not there at all tonight. The defense seemed pretty lackluster and there was very little hustle to be found anywhere. In several crucial points of the game, the Lancers were able to get 2nd and 3rd shot attempts at the basket simply by trying harder to rebound the ball. Longwood finished the game with 11 offensive rebounds, but 10 of those came in the 2nd half. Wake also did a terrible job defending Longwood’s 1 shooter, Redd Thompson Jr., who was seemingly wide open the entire 2nd half. Thompson finished with a game high 22 points and hit 6 of his 12 3-point attempts, including back-to-back triples with 2 minutes left to tie the game. After making 4 3-pointers in the second half, Wake still somehow allowed him to get off a great look as time expired to tie the game. The Deacs were fortunate that it did not go in and force overtime.

Yes, this was an awful performance for the Deacs, but they still managed to pull out the win. Games like this is one of the reasons I am so against playing so many Q4 buy games at the beginning of the season—eventually the team is going to start coasting after a bunch of blowouts, and someone is going to sneak up on them and either beat them or push them to the brink. Thankfully, that was the last buy game of the season and hopefully the last Q4 game of the season. Wake’s resume won’t take too big of a hit since they pulled out the win, but all of the progress that they had made in the metrics-based rankings were effectively erased by this game. It might be foolish to be too concerned about the NET and KenPom before January, but after a million years of not making the tournament, the Deacs need to be worried about pretty much everything that goes into the selection process.

Maybe a scare from a Big South opponent is exactly what the Deacs needed to re-energize and refocus them before the real games start this Sunday. I assure you if they play like they did tonight against Vanderbilt, things are going to get ugly fast.

Go Deacs!

Dec. 17—The Riverland Community College men's basketball team beat Waldorf (3-11 overall) 101-61 in Riverland Gym Tuesday.

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Tristan Coleman and O'Marion Miller each scored 15 points for RCC (12-1 overall).

RCC scoring: Tristan Coleman, 15; O'Marion Miller, 15; Camden Fearon, 14; Elhadji Thiam, 12; Tyson Helms, 11; Lubab Kambalo, 11; Jet Walis, 8; Nick Edland, 5; Isaiah Lindor, 5; BJ Wortham, 2; Drew Balentine, 2; Marshall Baseman, 1

Rotherham United manager Matt Hamshaw has admitted that his side are facing a fight to keep Dan Gore ahead of the January transfer window.

Gore impressing at Rotherham

Having joined Rotherham during the summer transfer window, Gore has emerged as a key player for the side.

He has impressed at the heart of Rotherham’s midfield, expertly shielding the defence and dictating the tempo of play.

Gore has turned out 19 times in League One for Rotherham, contributing one assist in that period. He has started all 19 games.

The Carrington academy graduate recently opened his senior goal account in the 7-2 thrashing of Salford City in the Vertu Trophy second round.

Hamshaw spoke to reporters and acknowledged that Gore’s performances have undoubtedly put him on the radar of clubs in the upper reaches of League One and the Championship, who will likely contact United regarding his situation.

However, the Rotherham boss noted that United are happy with Gore’s progress and perhaps this could be enough to keep him for the rest of the season.

Rotherham boss speaks on Gore

Hamshaw said [as quoted by the Yorkshire Post], “If we get to the end of January and he’s still here it would be a great signing.”

“Sometimes it’s hard with loans. You want your loan players to come in and really do well and then when they do well you might lose them in January.”

“I think Dan is enjoying it here, I’m in regular contact with Man United and they seem happy with him here but if anyone comes in with an offer that blows us out of the water then he’s going to go.”

Hamshaw added, “Our plan is that he stays here. He wants to stay here, he’s enjoying playing games. For a young player it’s important he has a 40-plus game season, so people can see he’s been fit for a full season.”

“I think Man United want that and it’s what we want.”

“If he’s still here on February 1 I’ll be delighted.”

Ultimately, United must judge if Gore is ready for a bigger challenge, or if his ongoing development at Rotherham is more beneficial to their plans.

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The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social

California is still trying to keep its tier-one status when it comes to producing high level talent in the high school football ranks.

Looking at the 2026 cycle, there are 41 blue-chippers in the Golden State, according to the Rivals Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all major recruiting media companies. Of those 41, all but one are signed with a Power Four program.

Below is a look at the top prospects in California this cycle and where they’re headed to play their college football next season:

1. WR Chris Henry Jr. — Ohio State

School:Mater Dei
Rivals Industry Ranking: No. 7 NATL. (No. 1 WR)

Scouting Summary: “Jumbo receiver with a rare combination of size, athleticism, and coordination as a young prospect. Continued growing and adding size throughout his high school career, checking in at around 6-foot-5 and over 200 pounds going into his senior season. Has good length, with arms around 34 inches. Tests as a strong athlete with good speed at his size in the combine setting. Flashes functional movement skills at his size, showing the ability to sink his hips and change direction with ease. Touts good ball skills and catch radius. Tracks the ball over his shoulder and can win in jump ball situations. Sustained a season-ending knee injury as a junior, missing most of the year. Heading into his senior season, his production is below average for a top wide receiver prospect. Has a strong pedigree as the son of the late NFL wide receiver Chris Henry. Will need to capitalize on more extensive reps and continue developing, but has a very high physical upside.”

2. EDGE Richard Wesley — Texas

School:Sierra Canyon
Rivals Industry Ranking: No. 13 NATL. (No. 4 EDGE)

Scouting Summary: “Versatile edge defender that wins with power and speed as a pass rusher that possesses advanced hand usage for his age. Verified 6-foot-4.5, 245 pounds with above average length. Impressive athlete in the combine setting as well as on the track running 11.67 in the 100m during his sophomore track and field season. Variety of pass rush moves including swims, rips, long arms and a ghost move. Stout run defender that can set the edge and displace blockers at the point of attack. Collected 16 tackles-for-loss and 9 sacks during his sophomore season. Reclassified from the 2027 cycle to the 2026 cycle so will be a year younger than most of his peers in the class. Versatile skillset allows him to project to a strong-side or weak-side end. Has the ability to play with his hand in the dirt or stand up off the edge and should excel as a three-down edge defender at the next level.”

3. TE Mark Bowman — USC

School:Mater Dei
Rivals Industry Ranking: No. 23 NATL. (No. 2 TE)

Scouting Summary: “Technical pass-catcher who is one of the best route-running tight end prospects we’ve seen in recent years. Measured in at 6-foot-4, 235 pounds with 31.75-inch arms and 9.75-inch hands before his senior season. Has elite quickness, which he uses to separate off the line of scrimmage and within his routes. Able to snap off defenders at will. Has very reliable hands and consistently finishes at the catch point. Quickness and speed allow for the ability to pick up big yardage after the catch. The type of tight end who can be a movable weapon within an offense’s passing game. Backs up the skill set he shows on Friday nights, with dominant showings on the 7-on-7 circuit and in camps. Punches well above his weight as a blocker and is a strong, physical presence in the run game. Finished the 2024 season with 32 catches for 435 yards and eight touchdowns in 15 games. Reclassified back into the 2026 cycle before his final year of high school football. Has less varsity experience and production than some of his highly-rated peers and a less robust multi-sport profile. Has the potential to develop into a high-volume target and early-round draft pick.”

4. OT Kodi Greene — Washington

School:Mater Dei
Rivals Industry Ranking: No. 25 NATL. (No. 4 OT)

Scouting Summary: “Nimble offensive tackle who brings a translatable skill set with size and projectable movement skills. Measured around 6-foot-6, and north of 300 pounds before his senior season. Touts average to solid length for his height. Transferred to SoCal powerhouse Mater Dei for his junior season, primarily lining up at right tackle for the Monarchs. A high-level mover. Fluid and balanced. Works to the second level effortlessly. Dangerous as a puller. Shows good pop in his hands and plays with encouraging power. Has a solid understanding of body positioning, walling off defensive linemen. More advanced as a run blocker, but has the skill set to develop into a reliable pass protector over time. Battle-tested and fared well against top competition as a junior. Can continue to improve his hand placement and overall technique.”

5. CB Brandon Arrington — Texas A&M

School:Mount Miguel
Rivals Industry Ranking: No. 29 NATL. (No. 2 CB)

Scouting Summary: “Elite athleticism at the corner position with impressive mirror ability for a taller, longer corner prospect. One of the strongest track profiles in the country. Ran a blistering 10.21 in the 100m and a 20.35 in the 200m during his junior track season. Can run with any receiver lined up across from him. Has the length and ball skills to attack the football and play through the receiver’s hands in order to separate them from the ball. Would like to see him gain some mass throughout his frame and become more confident in run support. Boundary corner projection due to his size and speed. Has the length and athleticism to line up against virtually any receiver type at the next level.”

6. DL Khary Wilder — Ohio State

School:Junipero Serra
Rivals Industry Ranking: No. 41 NATL. (No. 2 DL)

Scouting Summary: “Interior pass rushing demon with tremendous burst off the line of scrimmage and hip fluidity that plays with his hair on fire to chase down ball carriers. Verified 6-foot-4, 255 pounds with excellent length. Carries his weight very well for his size and should add substantial mass at the next level. Charged up athlete that possesses such explosive movements off the line and in space. Does a great job shooting his hands and keeping his chest clean when engaging with blockers. Has serious shock in his hands when punching blockers at the point of attack. Totaled 11 tackles-for-loss and 4.5 sacks as a junior. Will need to maintain his athletic ability as he adds significant mass to his frame. Should develop into a knifing 3-technique with phenomenal twitch and upfield burst that can stay on the field as a dominant pass rusher on third downs and excel as a stout run defender on early downs.”

7. QB Ryder Lyons — BYU

School:Folsom (Calif.)
Rivals Industry Ranking:

Scouting Summary: “Productive dual threat who makes outstanding high-level improvisational plays as a scramble artist. Measured at a shade under 6-foot-2 and around 220 pounds before his senior season. Hand measures at 9 inches. Added around 15 pounds during his junior year. At the helm of one of the top high school programs in Northern California. Highly productive over his high school career. Most comfortable when making improvisational plays. Lures defenders with his movements and keeps his eyes downfield to find open receivers. Never believes a play is dead. Stocky build and is tough to sack. Quality passer who can deliver with accuracy and touch. Shows the ability to step up in the pocket and deliver well-placed passes with timing when he wants to. Capable on designed runs in addition to scrambles. Shows the ability to break and avoid tackles at the second level. High usage player who will enter college football with a ton of meaningful reps in playmaking situations. Competitive temperament and plays with fire.”

8. CB Davon Benjamin — Oregon

School:Oaks Christian
Rivals Industry Ranking: No. 63 NATL. (No. 8 CB)

Scouting Summary: “Athletically gifted defensive back with positional versatility who has the physicality to play down in the box and the movement skills to cover in the slot or on the outside. Verified 5-foot-11.5, 180 pounds with average length. Has personal bests of 10.92 in the 100m and 21.90 in the 200m. Rangy defender that covers from sideline to sideline as a safety. Fluid and loose-hipped when working in coverage as a corner. Very strong ball production and nose for the football. Picked off six passes and tallied 45 tackles as a junior. Would love more length, can be a disservice against bigger bodied pass catchers. Need to continue adding mass to his frame if he is going to be physical around the line of scrimmage at the next level. Older prospect for the 2026 recruiting cycle. Has the versatility and athletic ability to make an immediate impact at every defensive back position early on in his career and should be a three-down defender at corner or nickel throughout his career if he is able to add the necessary mass.”

9. IOL Tommy Tofi — Oregon

School:Archbishop Riordan
Rivals Industry Ranking: No. 82 NATL. (No. 4 IOL)

About: Tofi originally committed to Cal, but backed off that pledge at the end of June. Oregon was trending in the summer and that led to him choosing the Ducks just a couple days later on July 2. “No hard feelings against Cal, it actually felt like home, but I feel like my heart was at Oregon,” Tofi told Rivals’ Adam Gorney. “Going back to Eugene made me realize Oregon was the spot for me and I wanted to be in Eugene.”

10. RB Brian Bonner — Washington

School:Valencia
Rivals Industry Ranking: No. 84 NATL. (No. 6 RB)

Bonner on UW: “I really like the coaching staff,” he told Rivals’ Adam Gorney. “I like how coach Fisch runs his offense and I really like coach Scottie Graham, the running backs coach. He and I have a really good relationship and we’ve been building that for a long time. I really like coach Fisch, coach Graham and the rest of the coaching staff.”

Other top California signees this cycle

11. CB Havon Finney — LSU
12. RB Deshonne Redeaux — USC
13. CB Brandon Lockhart — USC
14. DL Tomuhini Topui — USC
15. WR Kayden Dixon-Wyatt — USC

16. OT Vlad Dyakonov — USC
17. CB Rahsjon Duncan — Washington
18. EDGE Simote Katoanga — USC
19. QB Bryson Beaver — Oregon
20. DL JD Hill — Washington

21. WR Madden Williams — Texas A&M
22. WR Vance Spafford — Miami
23. QB Oscar Rios — Arizona
24. WR Trent Mosley — USC
25. EDGE Prince Tavizon — Oregon

AEW has a number of traditions when it comes to the holiday season, and one of those traditions is the Dynamite Diamond Ring Battle Royal. The 2025 battle royal took place on the Holiday Bash edition of "AEW Dynamite" in Manchester, England, and the two men advancing to the match to determine the winner of the Dynamite Diamond Ring are the AEW National Champion Ricochet, and the ROH World Champion Bandido.

Brody King and Bandido were taken out by The Demand as they were making their entrance, but Ricochet and the Gates of Agony were blindsided by Ace Austin. Max Caster and Anthony Bowens might not be getting along as well as they used to, but they were able to take Josh Alexander out with the Scissor Me Timbers. However, just as the former AEW World Tag Team Champions attempted to roll back the years with the scissoring, Ricochet snuck in and eliminated Caster. Ace Austin was the next to be eliminated, and he was followed by Anthony Bowens as both Ricochet and Mark Davis worked together as the match went to the commercial break. During the break, Bishop Kaun and Toa Liona cut Brodido's Macarena party short as the two teams went toe-to-toe. Luchasaurus and Shelton Benjamin then showed each other how strong they were at the expense of the field before exchanging strikes themselves.

Back out of the break and a quick series of eliminations at the hands of Alexander saw Luchasaurus, Benjamin, and Davis, his fellow Don Callis Family member, all get dumped out of the match. The Demand would work over King in the corner but he would quickly escape, and after Alexander tried to catch King in an Ankle Lock, Brodido worked together to eliminate Alexander. 

Kaun came dangerously close to eliminating Bandido but the ROH World Champion survived on the apron. However, when Liona went to eliminate Bandido, King would charge in with a Lariat, eliminating Liona and himself as the momentum carried him out of the ring. Kaun went back for Bandido to try and make the finals an all Demand affair, but Bandido hit a Poisonrana over the ropes to eliminate Kaun, leaving himself and Ricochet as the final two men in the match. They will now face each other at the Hammerstein Ballroom on December 24, where the winner will earn a shot at the AEW Men's World Championship on the Maximum Carnage edition of "Dynamite" on January 14.

Read more: AEW Stars: Meet Their Spouses & Partners

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Read the original article on Wrestling Inc.

DETROIT (AP) — Clayton Keller had a goal and an assist as the Utah Mammoth pulled away from the Atlantic Division-leading Detroit Red Wings 4-1 on Wednesday night.

Dylan Guenther scored his sixth goal in the last six games, while Jack McBain and Kevin Stenlund also scored for Utah. Nick Schmaltz had his 300th career assist on Keller’s goal.

Karel Vejmelka made 27 saves as the Mammoth won for the third time in their last four games.

Emmitt Finnie scored for the Red Wings, who had won five of six games. Andrew Copp notched his 200th career assist and Cam Talbot stopped 23 shots.

Detroit forward Patrick Kane missed his second consecutive game due to an upper-body injury.

Keller opened the scoring at 1:44 of the second period by knocking in the rebound of Schmaltz's shot. It was Keller's ninth goal in 14 career games against the Red Wings.

Seconds after the Mammoth killed off a penalty, McBain made it 2-0 at 14:17 of the period, converting in front off Michael Carcone's pass from behind the goal line.

Finnie scored on a power play with 10:05 left in regulation. His slap shot from the left circle off John Leonard's pass beat Vejmelka on the stick side.

Guenther made it 3-1 with 4:08 left. Detroit defenseman Moritz Seider tried to clear the puck out of the goal crease but it bounced off Talbot's skate and onto Guenther's stick. Stenlund scored 31 seconds later from the slot.

Mammoth: Host New Jersey on Friday night.

Red Wings: Visit Washington on Saturday.

___

AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/nhl

Whenever there is an opportunity to engage Colorado Avalanche fans beyond the confines of the arena, the conversation tends to orbit a familiar set of themes: admiration for the team’s dominance, confidence born of consistent winning, and—almost inevitably—a lingering concern about the power play. 

The Power Play Isn’t Good, But... 

The Avalanche rank 18th in the league on the power play, converting at a 15.7 percent rate—which, frankly, isn’t very good. Their biggest rival in the Central Division, the Dallas Stars, are operating at nearly double that efficiency on the man advantage. Viewed through that lens, there is legitimate reason for concern. The playoffs are still roughly four months away, but time has a way of moving quickly. 

Nearly a month ago,The Hockey News asked about the power play and whether there was any concern over its relative lack of success. 

Here is what he had to say: 

“The power play is one of the things we continue to work on,” he stated. “We’re understanding where we’re at; we’re understand that if our power play can start chipping in goals on a nightly basis, obviously that makes a big difference. 

“It’s early on in the season; we’re working on a few things and trying a couple different looks. It’s one of the things when it’s not working, it’s easy to start overthinking it, start pointing fingers, try to re-invent the wheel, but at the end of the day, sometimes you just got to stick with it. 

“Sometimes there are tweaks to be made we make them no problem, but I think the power play is kind of the same as the rest of our game as we continue to work on it; we’re going to find ways (to succeed), and I’m not worried about it.” 

At the time of that conversation with Landeskog, the Avalanche’s power play conversion rate sat at 15.7 percent. As of the publication of this piece—and as noted earlier—that figure remains unchanged. In other words, the power play has neither improved nor declined; it has simply held steady. But here’s why we should hold hope for our power play units. 

The Avs Are Not Being Complacent 

The Avalanche own the best record in the NHL at 24-2-7 through 33 regular-season games. If Colorado truly believed a high-end power play was unnecessary, there would be little reason to devote extensive practice time to special-teams work. The focus would rest almost exclusively on five-on-five play, with success assumed to follow. That, however, is not the approach being taken. 

Instead, head coach Jared Bednar continues to invest heavily in refining the power play, experimenting with line configurations, testing different personnel groupings, and exploring varied methods of zone entry and offensive penetration. The emphasis reflects a belief that improvement remains both possible and necessary, regardless of the standings. 

From the outside, frustration is understandable—and in some cases, warranted. Fans crave momentum, urgency, and excitement on every shift. That expectation is part of the bargain; passion is what defines fandom.

Two Different Perspectives 

Inside the organization, however, the perspective is different. Players, coaches, and those working behind the scenes are focused on process rather than spectacle. Progress is rarely linear, and identifying what works often requires patience, repetition, and a willingness to tune out external noise. In moments like these, teams lean on their leadership—figures such as Landeskog—to keep the focus where it belongs. 

Brock Nelson cashes in just nine seconds into the power play to give the Avs the lead 🤑 pic.twitter.com/RRG6jaWNGn

— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) December 17, 2025

The Avalanche are 33 games into the season, with 49 remaining before the playoffs, and there’s a strong possibility the roster looks different by the trade deadline. One area to watch is third-line center. With Ross Colton seeing time down the middle rather than on the wing, it suggests Jared Bednar may not be fully sold on Jack Drury as the long-term 3C. That uncertainty could open the door to some intriguing possibilities as the deadline approaches. 

With that said, there’s no reason to panic about the power play. Giving it time to develop is both reasonable and necessary. The team’s continued success only affords more runway to get it right. 

For action-packed issues, access to the entire magazine archive and a free issue, subscribe to The Hockey News at THN.com/free. Get the latest news and trending stories by subscribing to our newsletter here. And share your thoughts by commenting below the article on THN.com or creating your own post in our community forum.

Olivier Rioux made even more history on Wednesday night during No. 23 Florida’s 102-61 win over Saint Francis.

The 7-foot-9 center threw down an incredibly easy dunk in the final minute of the blowout win at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center in Gainesville on Wednesday, which made him the tallest player in college basketball history to ever make a field goal. Naturally, the Gators’ bench lost it.

Rioux, who actually has a spot in the Guinness World Records book as the world’s tallest teenager, redshirted last season with the Gators. He played his first minutes last month against North Florida, which set a different record for the tallest person to ever play in a college basketball game, and then went 1-of-2 from the free throw line against Merrimack. 

Finally, on Wednesday night, he hit his first field goal — which looked like it didn’t take any effort to get up to the rim at all.

Xavian Lee led the defending national champions with 18 points in the win after he shot 7-of-9 from the field. Alex Condon finished with 14 points and seven rebounds, and Reuben Chinyelu added 12 points and 11 rebounds. The Gators now sit at 7-4, and have won back-to-back games after a rough stretch where they dropped two of three games, including one to unranked TCU.

Florida will host both Colgate and Dartmouth before the end of the year, and will then open SEC play at Missouri on Jan. 3.

While Rioux has only played a handful of minutes so far in the nonconference slate, and he likely won't see much the rest of the way, he's already off to a historic start to his playing career in Gainesville.

How did those within the NFL view Philip Rivers' return with the Indianapolis Colts in Week 15?

ESPN NFL insiders Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano recently shared some of what they had heard.

"The overall feedback was that he was reasonably good, all things considered," Fowler wrote.

One NFL offensive coach told Fowler, "He played about as well as he could have."

Rivers threw for only 120 passing yards with a touchdown and a late interception. Up until the final seconds of the game, he did take care of the football, got the ball out of his hands quickly, and helped the Colts sustain drives and win the time of possession battle.

After facing unknowns at quarterback following Daniel Jones' injury, Rivers did provide some stability.

"I understand what Indianapolis is trying to do with Rivers," wrote Graziano, "and I'm hearing the same things you are about how pleased the Colts were with his ability to get them in and out of the right looks, change protections and all those things he needs to do to manage a game."

However, as ESPN's Ben Solak noted, the Colts' offense with Rivers was very limited.

The Colts have thrived from under center this season, but were unable to line up that way against Seattle due to Rivers' limited mobility. In part, that made running the ball more difficult.

There is also almost no threat of generating explosive, downfield passes within this offense, either.

With that said, the Colts remain committed to Rivers. Shane Steichen has already announced that he will start on Monday Night against San Francisco.

At 8-6, the Colts' playoff chances are becoming less likely each week. A win is a near-must on Monday.

This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: NFL insiders weigh in on Colts' QB Phillip Rivers' NFL return

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (AP) — Juke Harris scored 19 points and Myles Colvin made a late 3-pointer to help Wake Forest beat Longwood 71-68 on Wednesday night.

Colvin hit a 3 with 49 seconds left to give Wake Forest a 70-67 lead. Elijah Kelly missed a 3 on the other end for Longwood and then Omaha Biliew split a pair of free throws for Wake Forest with 29 seconds to go.

Longwood's Redd Thompson Jr. missed a 3-pointer and Johan Nziemi couldn't connect on the putback in the closing seconds to help seal it for the Demon Deacons.

Harris missed all six of his 3-points attempts and was 4 of 12 from the field but made 11 of 14 free throws to go with eight rebounds. Nate Calmese added 12 points for Wake Forest (9-3), which has won three straight. Colvin finished with 11 points.

Thompson made six 3-pointers and scored 22 points to lead Longwood (6-7). Johan Nziemi and Elijah Tucker added 13 points apiece.

Thompson made three 3s and two free throws in a personal 11-0 run that tied it 65-all with 1:49 remaining.

Longwood plays at North Carolina Central on Saturday.

Wake Forest hosts No. 13 Vanderbilt on Sunday in an Atlantic Coast Conference opener.

___ Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here and here (AP News mobile app). AP college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-basketball

Proposed blockbuster Warriors trade involving Steph Curry lands $215 million four-time All-star originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Some may argue that the Golden State Warriors don’t deserve Stephen Curry at this stage of his career. 

The 37-year-old NBA champion has orchestrated masterful performance after masterful performance with the Dubs this year. Unfortunately, though, Curry’s brilliance hasn’t been rewarded with consistent victories, as Golden State sits at 13-14 through 27 games. 

Are the Warriors open to ending Curry’s misery in the Bay by sending him to an under-the-radar Eastern Conference franchise in exchange for a four-time All-Star? Golden State of Mind’s Mark Delucchi believes so.

“While (Trae) Young, (Dyson) Daniels, and (Onyeka) Okongwu combine for too much salary to be traded for Curry straight up, it actually creates an opportunity for a larger deal that would help both teams as they move to new timelines,” Delucchi wrote Tuesday.

“Both the Warriors and Hawks would seemingly benefit from a swap of Draymond Green and Zaccharie Risacher. Risacher looks like a solid rotation player, but ultimately lacks the ceiling associated with a typical top pick.”

“In a world with Curry heading to Atlanta, turning Risacher into a more advanced player in his current role would be beneficial. Meanwhile, the Dubs would get another young prospect.”

Delucchi’s complete trade concept sends Curry, Green, Quentin Post, De’Anthony Melton, and Al Horford to the Hawks for Young, Okangwu, Risacher, Daniels, and three future first-round picks. 

While it’s well-documented that Young is a tier or two below Curry, the Oklahoma product’s play style would make him a solid fit with the Warriors. 

Like Curry, Young is at his best when he can find advantageous matchups on the perimeter, use his change of pace, side-to-side ball handling to get opponents to lean in one direction, and have a field day from beyond the arc. 

Unfortunately, Young is having a horrendous three-point shooting season (19.4%) and has missed 22 games due to a nagging knee injury. 

Still, it doesn't change the fact that Young is a special offensive talent who’s already ascended to stardom in the big leagues. That said, it's nearly impossible to envision the Warriors trading Curry for any asset unless he requested it. 

The Dubs appear far more focused on building a championship-contending roster around Curry than blowing up their roster and starting fresh. 

Expect Mike Dunleavy Jr. and the Warriors to complete a season-saving trade that doesn't feature Curry.

More NBA: Warriors predicted to cut ties with Stephen Curry, acquire $50 million NBA champion star

The Detroit Red Wings gave themselves a chance, until they didn't.

They took on an opponent on Wednesday, Dec. 17, that came into Little Caesars Arena with legs arguably more tired than the Wings. Both teams played the night before, but the Wings were the team who didn't have to travel after playing Tuesday. But it was the Utah Mammoth who scored first, and turned a close game into a 4-1 victory after scoring twice just seconds apart in the third period.

The Wings (19-13-3) started the third period down two goals and with 1:16 left to kill on a penalty to Moritz Seider. They had 23 shots on Karel Vejmelka, five of them during three power plays.

It took a fourth power play for the Wings to get on the scoreboard, midway through the third period, when Emmitt Finnie turned John Leonard's pass from behind the net into a one-goal game, ripping the puck into the net. The Mammoth restored the two-goal cushion when Dylan Guenther pounced on a loose puck and flipped it over Seider's stick and into an open net with 4:08 to play.

Thirty-one seconds laters, the Wings gave up another one, when Kevin Stenlund scored on a one-timer in the slot.

MUST READ: Red Wings photographer given special moment after tragic loss

Both teams had played the night before: The Wings won at home against the New York Islanders, while the Mammoth lost at the Boston Bruins. The only lineup change for the Wings was in goal, where Cam Talbot started.

He had a busy first couple minutes as the Mammoth tried to set the pace, but the Wings found their legs and got the puck moving in the offensive zone. Ben Chiarot drew a penalty on 11:06 and Moritz Seider tried to make something out of that with a couple shots from the point. Back at even strength, Andrew Copp broke through defenders and fired a shot that hit Vejmelka but slid just wide. The Wings had an 11-8 edge in shots after the first period.

The Mammoth grabbed a 1-0 lead at 1:44 of the second period. Entering the zone with speed, Nick Schmaltz carried the puck up the right boards, skating all the way to the bottom of the circle before angling a shot on net. Talbot denied that, but Clayton Keller was there to turn the juicy rebound into his 11th goal of the season.

The Wings had back-to-back power plays around the midpoint of the second period, but didn't get much going on either, not even momentum. Instead, the Mammoth built on their lead, with Jack McBain scoring back-door with 5:43 to play in the second period.

Contact Helene St. James at hstjames@freepress.com. Read more on the Detroit Red Wings and sign up for our Red Wings newsletter. 

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Detroit Red Wings score in loss to Utah Mammoth on national TV

The Detroit Red Wings gave themselves a chance, until they didn't.

They took on an opponent on Wednesday, Dec. 17, that came into Little Caesars Arena with legs arguably more tired than the Wings. Both teams played the night before, but the Wings were the team who didn't have to travel after playing Tuesday. But it was the Utah Mammoth who scored first, and turned a close game into a 4-1 victory after scoring twice just seconds apart in the third period.

The Wings (19-13-3) started the third period down two goals and with 1:16 left to kill on a penalty to Moritz Seider. They had 23 shots on Karel Vejmelka, five of them during three power plays.

It took a fourth power play for the Wings to get on the scoreboard, midway through the third period, when Emmitt Finnie turned John Leonard's pass from behind the net into a one-goal game, ripping the puck into the net. The Mammoth restored the two-goal cushion when Dylan Guenther pounced on a loose puck and flipped it over Seider's stick and into an open net with 4:08 to play.

Thirty-one seconds laters, the Wings gave up another one, when Kevin Stenlund scored on a one-timer in the slot.

MUST READ: Red Wings photographer given special moment after tragic loss

Both teams had played the night before: The Wings won at home against the New York Islanders, while the Mammoth lost at the Boston Bruins. The only lineup change for the Wings was in goal, where Cam Talbot started.

He had a busy first couple minutes as the Mammoth tried to set the pace, but the Wings found their legs and got the puck moving in the offensive zone. Ben Chiarot drew a penalty on 11:06 and Moritz Seider tried to make something out of that with a couple shots from the point. Back at even strength, Andrew Copp broke through defenders and fired a shot that hit Vejmelka but slid just wide. The Wings had an 11-8 edge in shots after the first period.

The Mammoth grabbed a 1-0 lead at 1:44 of the second period. Entering the zone with speed, Nick Schmaltz carried the puck up the right boards, skating all the way to the bottom of the circle before angling a shot on net. Talbot denied that, but Clayton Keller was there to turn the juicy rebound into his 11th goal of the season.

The Wings had back-to-back power plays around the midpoint of the second period, but didn't get much going on either, not even momentum. Instead, the Mammoth built on their lead, with Jack McBain scoring back-door with 5:43 to play in the second period.

Contact Helene St. James at hstjames@freepress.com. Read more on the Detroit Red Wings and sign up for our Red Wings newsletter. 

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Detroit Red Wings score in loss to Utah Mammoth on national TV

The Detroit Red Wings gave themselves a chance, until they didn't.

They took on an opponent on Wednesday, Dec. 17, that came into Little Caesars Arena with legs arguably more tired than the Wings. Both teams played the night before, but the Wings were the team who didn't have to travel after playing Tuesday. But it was the Utah Mammoth who scored first, and turned a close game into a 4-1 victory after scoring twice just seconds apart in the third period.

The Wings (19-13-3) started the third period down two goals and with 1:16 left to kill on a penalty to Moritz Seider. They had 23 shots on Karel Vejmelka, five of them during three power plays.

It took a fourth power play for the Wings to get on the scoreboard, midway through the third period, when Emmitt Finnie turned John Leonard's pass from behind the net into a one-goal game, ripping the puck into the net. The Mammoth restored the two-goal cushion when Dylan Guenther pounced on a loose puck and flipped it over Seider's stick and into an open net with 4:08 to play.

Thirty-one seconds laters, the Wings gave up another one, when Kevin Stenlund scored on a one-timer in the slot.

MUST READ: Red Wings photographer given special moment after tragic loss

Both teams had played the night before: The Wings won at home against the New York Islanders, while the Mammoth lost at the Boston Bruins. The only lineup change for the Wings was in goal, where Cam Talbot started.

He had a busy first couple minutes as the Mammoth tried to set the pace, but the Wings found their legs and got the puck moving in the offensive zone. Ben Chiarot drew a penalty on 11:06 and Moritz Seider tried to make something out of that with a couple shots from the point. Back at even strength, Andrew Copp broke through defenders and fired a shot that hit Vejmelka but slid just wide. The Wings had an 11-8 edge in shots after the first period.

The Mammoth grabbed a 1-0 lead at 1:44 of the second period. Entering the zone with speed, Nick Schmaltz carried the puck up the right boards, skating all the way to the bottom of the circle before angling a shot on net. Talbot denied that, but Clayton Keller was there to turn the juicy rebound into his 11th goal of the season.

The Wings had back-to-back power plays around the midpoint of the second period, but didn't get much going on either, not even momentum. Instead, the Mammoth built on their lead, with Jack McBain scoring back-door with 5:43 to play in the second period.

Contact Helene St. James at hstjames@freepress.com. Read more on the Detroit Red Wings and sign up for our Red Wings newsletter. 

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Detroit Red Wings score in loss to Utah Mammoth on national TV

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — Duke Miles scored 22 points as No. 13 Vanderbilt weathered a second-half Memphis rally to remain undefeated with a 77-70 overtime win on Wednesday night.

After the game was tied at 66-all in the extra period, Jalen Washington scored inside and Miles converted four straight free throws. Washington hit two free throws with 57 seconds left that gave the Commodores (11-0) a 74-66 lead.

Miles and Washington, who finished with 14 points, made 9 of 10 free throws in the final 2 1/2 minutes. Tyler Tanner had 16 points.

Dug McDaniel and Sincere Parker led Memphis (4-6) with 18 points each. Hasan Abdul Hakim finished with 13 points and 10 rebounds as Memphis lost its second straight.

The game was tied at 62-62 at the end of regulation as Abdul Hakim scored inside for Memphis with 6.2 seconds left.

The Commodores, which went into the game No. 5 nationally in scoring (95.4 per game), continued their best start since the 2007-08 season when Vandy won its first 16 games. But poor shooting early led to Vanderbilt's lowest-scoring game of the season.

Memphis, which trailed by as many as 10 points in the first half, used a 17-3 run to take its first lead. Parker made a jumper that made it 42-40 with 12:19 left in the game before a steal and layup by Quante Berry capped the spurt nine seconds later. The Commodores had trouble with the Tigers scrambling press leading to 12 Vanderbilt turnovers in the second half.

Vanderbilt: The Commodores play Sunday at Wake Forest.

Memphis: The Tigers visit Mississippi State on Saturday.

______

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GAINESVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Olivier Rioux lumbered through the lane, caught a bounce pass from teammate CJ Ingram and dunked, sending Florida’s bench and the home crowd into a frenzy.

Rioux barely left his feet to make it happen.

The 7-foot-9 center and the world’s tallest teenager recorded his first collegiate field goal in the 23rd-ranked Gators’ 102-61 victory against Saint Francis on Wednesday night.

“Pretty special, man,” Gators coach Todd Golden said. “The transition, his vertical. Woo. He was up there, man.”

It was the most memorable play in a forgettable game against an overmatched opponent.

Florida fans watched their team dominate every aspect of its first home game in nearly a month and then started chanting, “We want Ollie,” with a little more than six minutes to play. Golden put the big fella in at the 2-minute mark, drawing the loudest ovation of the night.

Rioux delivered, first with a hard foul on the defensive end and then an impressive cut to the basket on the other. Florida players celebrated wildly, jumping around and pushing each other in revelry.

“We were just going crazy,” said Florida guard Xaivian Lee, who led the team with 18 points.

Quipped teammate Alex Condon, who added 14 points, seven rebounds, five assists and three blocked shots: “Good pass from CJ.”

Rioux became the tallest person to ever play college basketball when he made his debut in a 104-64 victory over North Florida in early November. Rioux, a 19-year-old redshirt freshman from Canada, drew so much attention from the Ospreys that he didn’t even touch the ball in that one.

He scored three games later, making a free throw after getting fouled. He also recorded his first rebound.

But this was different. It was a clear display of just how difficult Rioux can be to defend, even though Golden says his stamina only allows him to play a couple minutes at a time.

Rioux is 2 inches (5 centimeters) taller than former NBA giants Gheorghe Muresan and Manute Bol, and 3 inches taller than popular big men Yao Ming, Tacko Fall and Shawn Bradley. He already owned a spot in the Guinness record book when he signed with Florida in 2024.

Golden gave Rioux the option of playing sparingly last season or taking a redshirt season and working on his game. Rioux chose the latter. Nonetheless, he was a walking viral video, from riding his bike on campus, to ducking under every doorway, to cutting down nets while standing flat-footed during Florida’s NCAA Tournament run.

Golden has made it clear that Rioux would only play late in blowouts, the result of having all four frontcourt players returning. But Olivier doubled down on wanting to be at Florida and welcomed the challenge of playing against Alex Condon, Thomas Haugh, Rueben Chinyelu and Micah Handlogten in practice and behind them in games.

But he’s always the bigger — literally — attraction.

___

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Canada took their first pre-tournament match against Sweden by a score of 2-1, which had the sold-out Kitchener Memorial Auditorium rocking. 

With Porter Martone scratched for the game, Nashville Predators' fifth-overall pick from 2025, Brady Martin, got a look on the top line beside projected top pick in the upcoming 2026 NHL Draft, Gavin McKenna, and Montreal Canadiens top prospect, Michael Hage. 

Martin has a versatile offensive toolbox. He possesses the flashy high-end hands to deke through defenders one-on-one, has a ridiculously heavy shot, and he’s a lot like Florida Panthers’ Sam Bennett on the forecheck, wanting to put his opponent through the boards with every hit. 

The Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds' captain should play a big role for Canada, wherever the coaching staff utilizes him; in an energy role, or up in the top six to help produce offense. 

Instead of Canada waiting until Boxing Day, as they usually do, to reveal their goal song for the World Juniors, they wanted to give the fans in Kitchener and Canadians watching across the nation an early listen to their new goal song on Wednesday night. 

Gavin McKenna is known for his elite playmaking ability, and he set up Canada’s opening goal in the hockey game, sending a perfect cross-ice pass over to Brady Martin, who one-timed the puck so hard that it flew out after hitting the back of the net. 

Martin’s goal revealed this year’s Team Canada goal song, which will be Courage by The Tragically Hip. 

Canada's goal song at the #WorldJuniors will be... Courage by The Tragically Hip! pic.twitter.com/lXeTiizGGz

— TSN (@TSN_Sports) December 18, 2025

Martin cashed in on his opportunity to play with McKenna, but he was noticeably one of Canada’s most physical players. As expected, he was hungry on the forecheck, skating hard and finishing his hits. 

In the second period, he was the first man on the forecheck, laid one of those big hits on the defender, causing a turnover and botching Sweden’s breakout. Martin buttoned up to the faceoff circle and received a Gr. A scoring chance off what his hard work generated, nearly scoring his second of the night. 

In the third period, he crushed the Swedish player on the backcheck when they button-hooked on their zone entry. Needless to say, Martin’s opponents will need to be aware when he’s on the ice. 

But, he didn’t get drafted just because of his hitting and forechecking ability. His offensive skills really are underrated, and he displayed his slick hands in tight on Canada’s go-ahead goal in the third period. 

It was a pretty three-way passing play by Canada’s top line of Hage, McKenna, and Martin. 

HAGE. MCKENNA. MARTIN. 🚨

Canada leads 2-1.#WorldJuniorspic.twitter.com/pSeQRhluKj

— TSN (@TSN_Sports) December 18, 2025

Now, Martin will also have to be careful with his physicality at times. Immediately after he put Canada up 2-1, he took a cross-checking penalty. You can argue whether the Swedish player went down easy or not, but at the end of the day, IIHF officials (OHL officials called the game, but under IIHF rules) are going to call penalties like the one he took. 

Dale Hunter won’t hold Martin back, nor should he, and you know he appreciates his gritty, physical game. However, the timing of that penalty is one that Hunter probably didn’t like. Also, Porter Martone is most likely going to start the tournament as the team’s top right winger, but Martin showed the coaches tonight that they can slot him there on the top line if need be. 

It was a bit of homecoming game for the young man from Elmira, Ontario, not to far from Kitchener. "Yeah, it was cool to score a couple of goals here, I had some family here (in attendance) and watching from home, so it was great," Martin said after the game. 

Canada is back in action on Saturday for a rematch against Sweden. The game will take place in London at the Knights' home barn, Canada Life Place.

Make sure you bookmark THN's OHL site for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more. Also, be sure to leave a comment at the bottom of the page and engage with other passionate fans through our forum.

Latest OHL News:

NHL Draft Prospect Cole Zurawski Commits To NCAA Notre Dame2026 NHL draft prospect Cole Zurawski is yet another Owen Sound Attack forward who has committed to an NCAA school.

Ex-OHLer Makes NHL Debut With San Jose SharksFormer Saginaw Spirit forward Igor Chernyshov made his NHL debut with the San Jose Sharks.

OHL Trade: Kitchener Acquires Top Overage Forward Dylan Edwards From ErieKitchener bolsters its lineup, acquiring one of the top overage players on the market, Dylan Edwards, to fuel their championship aspirations.

MJF made his return during "AEW Dynamite" to execute his Casino Gauntlet contract, inserting himself in the World Championship match between Samoa Joe, Swerve Strickland, and "Hangman" Adam Page at Worlds End. 

Joe dethroned Page at Full Gear in November to begin his second reign with the title, thanks to an assist from Hook to re-join The Opps, with Strickland returning afterwards to align with Page against the new champion and The Opps. Strickland and Page had since worked together to fend off Joe's Trios Championship partners, Katsuyori Shibata and Powerhouse Hobbs, during "AEW Dynamite: Winter is Coming" before establishing their joint pursuit of the title at the end of the month.

This week, the three competitors sought to sign the contract and confirm the match, which they did after exchanging some choice words; notably, Page and Strickland presented a united front against Joe, proclaiming that he had made a mistake before the lights had gone out. 

MJF's music then played to mark his return to AEW after three months, having last loss to Mark Briscoe in a Tables n' Tacks match at All Out in Toronto. He signed his contract, the one which he had earned winning the Casino Gauntlet at All In back in July, confirming that he had been inserted into the title match. He then had words for each of his opponents, likening Strickland to Sean "P Diddy" Combs and referencing his time with WWE, and reasoned that he wanted to be in the match to embarrass Page and his two biggest rivals.

Page defeated MJF in a title defense at Forbidden Door in August, while Joe dethroned MJF for his first title at Worlds End 2023, with Joe later dropping the title to Strickland for his first reign at Dynasty 2024. 

Read more: AEW Stars: Meet Their Spouses & Partners

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Read the original article on Wrestling Inc.

Corinthians and Vasco drew 0-0 this Wednesday (17th) in the first leg of the Copa do Brasil final.

And for those who weren't emotionally invested, it was hard to pay attention to the game from start to finish.

Despite the two disallowed goals, the match at Neo Química Arena was lacking in excitement.

And the level of the performances echoed on social media, with many people complaining that they lost two hours of their lives.

Check out some reactions to the match below:

I won't forgive this easily

Safonov would have felt sick

Seriously?

Let's hope it's different on Sunday

Just like that

Over 47 thousand in attendance for the """spectacle"""

Yes, but with difficulty

Anticipating the idea

🔥⚽🔥

We did it!

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

📸 Ricardo Moreira - 2025 Getty Images

The Lightning could be without star forward Brandon Hagel when they host the Los Angeles Kings Thursday at Benchmark International Arena.

Hagel exited early in Monday’s game after taking an elbow to the face from Panthers defenseman Seth Jones in the third period. No penalty was called on the play, and Jones did not receive any supplemental discipline. While speaking to the media on Wednesday, Lightning assistant coach Rob Zettler said Hagel is considered day-to-day with an upper body injury.

Hagel has been on the receiving end of head contact in each of the last three games he has played against the Panthers, dating back to last April. 

The Lightning could be getting a much-needed boost with the return of Andrei Vasilevskiy. The star goaltender has been out since Dec. 2, but was activated off injured reserve on Tuesday, signaling he may be ready to play against the Kings.

“Today was his marker to figure out if it was a go,” Zettler said.

After a long stretch off the ice, defenseman Ryan McDonagh is practicing with the team and appears to be nearing a return as well.

“He’s definitely trending in the right direction. It’s the longest skate he’s had in four weeks,” said Zettler. “I think it is more like day to day now. We will see how he responds.“

The trustee in the bankruptcy case of former Colorado football player Shilo Sanders filed a response in court Dec. 17 that supports his argument that Sanders violated bankruptcy law by making unauthorized transfers to himself of approximately $250,000.

The court filing is the latest volley in bankruptcy case of Sanders, who filed a Chapter 7 petition in October 2023 seeking to get out of more than $11 million in debt.

The trustee in the case, David Wadsworth, sued Shilo Sanders in October, seeking recovery of the money and an accounting from Sanders. Sanders’ attorney then filed a motion to dismiss that complaint in November by arguing that the trustee had it all wrong.

The latest filing from Wadsworth’s attorney rebuts that notion as litigation related to the bankruptcy case continues on multiple fronts in addition to this one.  Sanders’ debt stems from a civil court judgment in Dallas in 2022.

“The Defendants are wrong,” the trustee’s attorney, Peter Cal, said in court documents.

What is at issue in Shilo Sanders' bankruptcy case this time?

The court-appointed trustee in this case is in charge of rounding up Sanders’ non-exempt assets for the bankruptcy estate to divide among his creditors. The trustee has alleged having trouble doing that and filed a complaint against Sanders related to money he traced in Sanders’ business accounts for earnings from his name, image and likeness (NIL). Those businesses are named as defendants with Sanders in the complaint – Big 21 and Headache Gang.

The big issue is who the money in question belongs to – the bankruptcy estate or Sanders. Sanders’ earnings before he filed the bankruptcy petition generally belong to the bankruptcy estate for the benefit of creditors, while earnings that came from work after the bankruptcy filing belong to Sanders.

Sanders’ attorney, Keri Riley, stated in court documents that the money in question belonged to Sanders because they were “post-petition earnings.”

The trustee disputed that in his response Dec. 17 and said such factual disputes can’t be resolved at this stage of the litigation.

Sanders “relies on the unsupported argument that all funds in the Big 21 Bank Account were post-petition earnings of the Debtor (Sanders),” the trustee’s attorney stated. “The Court should not consider the argument because it relies upon a factual assertion that is not included in the (trustee’s) Complaint.”

The trustee’s attorney then includes a footnote.

“Because there were funds in the Big 21 Bank Account on the Petition Date, the Defendants’ argument is demonstrably wrong,” the footnote states.

Timing of Shilo Sanders’ NIL earnings in dispute

The trustee’s attorney also noted that “even if the earnings are paid to the Debtor post-petition, they are considered prepetition earnings when they arose from a prepetition contractual interest.”

He argued the trustee pleaded his case well enough for the trustee’s complaint against Sanders to move forward. A bankruptcy judge will decide on that.

“It is more than plausible that at least certain of the post-petition deposits were based on the Debtor’s prepetition NIL contracts and, therefore, are subject to turnover,” the trustee’s filing states.

The trustee said he wants Sanders to “account for the distributions” after “improperly” exercising control over property of the bankruptcy estate.

How did the Shilo Sanders bankruptcy case originate?

A security guard at Sanders’ school in Dallas sued Sanders and his parents in 2016, alleging Shilo caused him permanent and severe injuries when he tried to confiscate his phone at school in 2015, when Shilo was 15. The parents were dismissed from the case before trial, but when the case finally went to trial in 2022, Shilo didn’t show up for it and got hit with a $11.89 million default judgment as a result.

The security guard, John Darjean, then moved to collect on that judgment in 2023, leading Sanders to file for bankruptcy to try to get out of it.

Darjean is fighting that with a separate complaint that alleges the debt should not be discharged in bankruptcy court because it stems from a “willful and malicious” injury. Sanders has claimed he acted in self-defense. That complaint remains pending, as does a separate complaint from Darjean that accuses Sanders of improperly omitting or concealing assets in his bankruptcy closures, which he denied.

What is Shilo Sanders doing now?

Sanders, 25, is out of football after being waived by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the season. He recently said he was moving to Miami and is pursuing other interests, such as acting and rap music.

He graduated from Jackson State before transferring to play for his dad at Colorado in 2023. Earlier this year, he also earned a master’s degree at Colorado in organizational leadership.

He is the middle of Deion Sanders' three sons. His younger brother Shedeur is quarterback of the Cleveland Browns.

Follow reporter Brent Schrotenboer @Schrotenboer. Email: bschrotenb@usatoday.com

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Bankruptcy trustee presses case against Deion Sanders' son Shilo

MOBILE, Ala. — During the second quarter of the 68 Ventures Bowl between Louisiana football and Delaware, the Ragin' Cajuns turned to their starter-turned-backup quarterback Walker Howard.

The Lafayette native came in for starting quarterback Lunch Winfield during the Cajuns' second offensive drive of the second quarter. Winfield appeared to be shaken up after the previous drive, visiting the injury tent. In Howard's first series in the game, he threw two incomplete passes and the drive ended in a punt.

Winfield returned to the game to close out the half.

Listed at 6-foot and 195 pounds, Howard was initially named the starting quarterback for the Cajuns to start the 2025 season before going down with an oblique injury. He underwent what was announced as season-ending surgery for his oblique on Sept. 4 before getting cleared for full practices on Oct. 13.

Since being back practicing and getting into the flow of things, Howard has made a few appearances with the most recent coming in the Cajuns regular-season finale against Louisiana-Monroe on Nov. 29. Against the Warhawks, Howard finished the game throwing for 82 yards while completing 10 of 21 passes. Winfield returned to finish that game out for a 30-27 overtime win.

REQUIRED READING: Louisiana athletic director discusses program ahead of 68 Ventures Bowl

REQUIRED READING: Louisiana men's and women's hoops hoping to right the ships ahead of SBC play

Shannon Belt covers high school sports and the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns for The Daily Advertiser as part of the USA TODAY Network. Follow her high school and Cajuns coverage on Twitter: @ShannonBelt3. Got questions regarding HS/UL athletics? Send them to Shannon Belt at sbelt@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Lafayette Daily Advertiser: UL football's Walker Howard makes appearance in 68 Ventures Bowl

On Wednesday, the USC men's basketball program delivered an injury update on Rodney Rice, and it was a rather unfortunate one. Per USC, Rice will miss the remainder of the 2025-2026 season with a shoulder injury that requires surgery.

Rice sustained the injury during the Maui Invitational last month. There was initially hope that he would be able to return to the court in not too long, but as time passed, the odds of that happening began to look worse and worse. Now, he is officially out for the year.

Rice arrived at USC this past offseason as a highly-touted transfer from Maryland. In six games in Cardinal and Gold, he largely lived up to the hype, averaging 20.3 points and 6.0 assists per contest.

Without Rice, the Trojans will need to rely on their other players to step up more. The good news for USC is that five-star freshman Alijah Arenas is set to begin practicing this week, and will hopefully make his season debut in January. The Trojans will also be relying on Chad Baker-Mazara and Jacob Cofie to carry the load as they have been doing of late.

This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: USC men's basketball's Rodney Rice to miss rest of season with injury

Dec. 17—Capsules for the 2025-26 Northeast A boys and girls basketball teams.

In alphabetical order by division. Records and standings from 2024-25 season.

Boys Northeast A

Colville (7-14, 0-6, fourth): The Crimson Hawks had a tough time in league last year, but third-year coach Josh Morgan has five letterwinners back, with a strong senior contingent led by guard Jet Bateman and forward Brock Benson. "Our team needs to play together as one team and not a group of individuals," Morgan said. "We need to be willing to sacrifice for the team."

Lakeside (13-10, 4-2, second): Lance Marquardt takes over as coach of the Eagles with six letterwinners back, inclduing first-team all-league senior point guard Blake Hanson and first-team all-league junior post Tanner Cummings. Senior shooting guard Brady Hanson and junior post Luke Howie are also key returners." We will lean on senior leadership and these experienced returners to carry us," Marquardt said.

Medical Lake (13-9, 2-4, third): Seven letterwinners and four starters return for third-year coach Brett Ward, led by first-team all-league forward sophomore Gabe Smith and second-team all-NEA sophomore guard Hudson Gilbert, along with Owen and Grant Moffatt. "We shoot the ball as well as anyone in the area," Ward said. "We need to get better defensively and become a more complete team."

Riverside (16-5, 6-0, first): The Rams won league and district, then were bounced in regional round of state last year. Two starters and seven total letterwinners return, including second-team all-NEA senior forward Justin Gaffaney and 6-foot-5 junior Ben Riggles. "We're looking to build on the success of our back-to-back state appearances the last two years," fourth-year coach Jordan Dutton said. "This group has the potential to compete at a high level."

Girls Northeast A

Colville (14-9, 5-1, first): The Crimson Hawks reached a crossover game last season but fell one game short of getting to state — but there's not a single starter back from that squad for fourth-year coach Ashley Moore. Senior guard Andee Kroiss and junior forward Georgia Beardslee will be counted on to lead. "We are a young team that is driven," Moore said. "We put a lot of work in over the offseason to be competitive."

Lakeside (14-10, 5-1, second): The Eagles won at districts and the regional round at state last season before falling in a first-round game as the No. 13 seed. Frosh PG Emmerson Cummings joins nucleus of senior Jillian Owen, juniors Bella Tobeck and Sienna Weinberger and sophomore Blakleigh White. "Our core group of returners are really athletic and fast," second-year coach Lora Cummings said. "We are hoping to speed up the game and defend."

Medical Lake (7-14, 2-4, third): Yeta Holloway returns for her third year at the helm for the Cardinals with seven letterwinners and four starters back, including NEA defensive MVP junior guard Addison Hammell and a group of four seniors. "No one from last year's team played varsity minutes the previous season and it showed in their first varsity games," Holloway said.

Riverside (1-20, 0-6, fourth): The Rams are one of the youngest teams in the area, with just one starter — junior guard Ava Montgomery — returning for second-year coach Tara Davis. Sophomores Bridget St. Amand, Ainsley Spencer and Maggie Hymas will get plenty of minutes. "We have built on our team chemistry and commitment from last year," Davis said. "The players are holding themselves to higher standards."

Dec. 17—Perhaps it's her grit. Maybe even her unwillingness to let mistakes derail her.

Or, maybe, it's the fact it's her final collegiate basketball season. Whatever it is, Ines Bettencourt, Gonzaga's lone senior, has taken on a much-needed leadership role this season.

What Gonzaga needs most isn't her production. It's more about her indomitable spirit.

"She wants to lead," Gonzaga coach Lisa Fortier said. "She wants to make the baskets, but she wants to really just win games. And she's willing to do those things. She's starting to understand her role. She's taking the ones (shots) that she should."

Bettencourt, who transferred to Gonzaga (6-5) the summer before her junior season after two years at storied UConn, is from Sao Miguel, Portugal.

The 5-foot-9 Bettencourt earned a full-time starting job this season after starting 16 times last year. She had a season-high 17 points against Wyoming and played a season-high 35 minutes against Rice. Arguably her best game came in the Zags' overtime loss at Minnesota in the WBIT quarterfinals when she had 13 points and six assists in 21 minutes off the bench.

She averaged 6.1 points, 2.7 assists and 2.1 rebounds in 22 minutes per game a year ago. This season, she's averaging 6.3 points, 3.0 assists and 3.5 rebounds in 27 minutes per game.

Bettencourt is shooting 40.7% from 3-point range (11 of 27).

Bettencourt saw limited minutes in 53 games in two seasons at UConn.

Fortier talked with Bettencourt before the season, asking her to take on a leadership role and be more of a supporting player. After a third of the season it's obvious Bettencourt has transitioned nicely.

Bettencourt isn't the lone leader. Sophomore guard Allie Turner and redshirt freshman Lauren Whittaker also contribute. It's probably no coincidence that the trio live together.

"She's just really playing with passion and doing whatever she can for our team to have success.

Bettencourt, who shares point guard duties with Turner, is not a flawless player. Her game has warts. She'd be the first to admit it. But she overcomes some deficiencies with stubborn determinedness.

"She makes mistakes, but she's playing passionately and she's playing so hard," Fortier said. "She's playing like a senior who wants it badly."

When will it end?

The struggles continue for Washington State.

WSU coach Kamie Ethridge hasn't seen the team she thought she'd have during nonconference. That largely explains why WSU is off to its second-worst start.

The Cougars hope there will be course correction when they launch into West Coast Conference play late next week.

At 1-11, WSU is off to its second-worst start in school history behind the 2002-03 team that began 0-11. That season, the Cougars lost their first 21 games.

In 2010-11, WSU began 2-13. In 2007-08, they started 3-20.

It's unlikely WSU will dig the hole any deeper. But the struggles have been real.

"This entire season has just made us re-evaluate without the personnel that we always thought we would have," Ethridge said. "We have to have a physical presence in the post. We have to find different people ... to play a little bit more than we have in the past. We clearly have to improve our defensive end and rebounding — not giving away possessions there."

Junior 6-6 post Alex Covill was expected to be a big contributor inside offensively and defensively. But in the Cougars' second game she suffered a foot injury. She started 20 of 27 games last year, but missed the final eight of the regular season with a foot injury before returning for the postseason.

In a season-ending loss to North Dakota State, Covill led WSU with 14 points on 6-of-6 shooting and four rebounds.

Ethridge said struggles aside, she's proud her team hasn't been distracted by the win-loss record.

Covill could be back to start WCC play.

Going into this week, there were seven winless teams in NCAA Division I and 20 with one victory including WSU.

Covill's absence and injuries to others has meant increased playing time for true freshman Malia Rudd, a 6-2 forward from Pasco. She has started eight games, averaging 27.4 minutes. She ranks third in scoring at 10.2 points.

"I don't think we wanted Malia to play this many minutes," Ethridge said.

This week

Gonzaga goes on the road for its final two nonconference games.

The Zags visit 7-4 Missouri State on Friday (tip at 4:30) and finish at 2-7 UC Riverside on Sunday (tip at 2 p.m.).

—WSU finishes a grueling nonconferene schedule at Pennsylvania (7-3) on Friday.

—Eastern Washington (6-4) finishes nonleague play at UC Santa Barbara (9-1) on Thursday, at Cal State Bakersfield (3-7) on Saturday and at home against Bushnell (2-8) on Monday.

—Idaho (8-4) has one nonconference game left Saturday at home against Western Oregon (7-3).

Around the WCC

WCC teams conclude nonconference action this week.

Pepperdine, in its second year with former Lake City and Montana standout Katie (Baker) Faulkner at the helm, is off to a 7-3 start. Close behind is Santa Clara at 9-3 under first-year coach Loree Payne. She was a head coach previously at Northern Arizona and Puget Sound.

The rest of the conference looks like this: Saint Mary's (8-4), San Francisco (6-4), Oregon State (6-5), Portland (5-5), Loyola Marymount (5-4), Pacific (4-5), San Diego (5-7) and newcomer Seattle (4-6). LMU (4-6) is playing just 11 nonconference games after one game was canceled.

Portland and Pacific have the toughest games left. Portland goes to Oregon and Pacific takes on 22nd-ranked Washington.

All Times EST

Thursday, Dec. 18

L.A. Rams at Seattle, 8:15 p.m.

Atlanta at Charlotte, 7 p.m.

New York at Indiana, 7 p.m.

Miami at Brooklyn, 7:30 p.m.

Houston at New Orleans, 8 p.m.

L.A. Clippers at Oklahoma City, 8 p.m.

Toronto at Milwaukee, 8 p.m.

Washington at San Antonio, 8 p.m.

Detroit at Dallas, 8:30 p.m.

Golden State at Phoenix, 9 p.m.

L.A. Lakers at Utah, 9 p.m.

Orlando at Denver, 9 p.m.

Sacramento at Portland, 10 p.m.

Chicago at Montreal, 7 p.m.

Edmonton at Boston, 7 p.m.

Los Angeles at Tampa Bay, 7 p.m.

Minnesota at Columbus, 7 p.m.

Pittsburgh at Ottawa, 7 p.m.

Toronto at Washington, 7 p.m.

Philadelphia at Buffalo, 7:30 p.m.

N.Y. Rangers at St. Louis, 8 p.m.

Seattle at Calgary, 9 p.m.

Dallas at San Jose, 10 p.m.

Xbox Bowl

Missouri St. vs. Arkansas St. at Frisco, Texas, 9 p.m.

No. 25 Georgia vs. Western Carolina, 7 p.m.

No. 3 South Carolina at South Florida, 7 p.m.

No. 13 Vanderbilt vs. Albany (NY), 7:30 p.m.

No. 15 Baylor vs. Southern U., 8 p.m.

No. 19 Southern Cal vs. Cal Poly, 10 p.m.

No. 21 Ohio St. vs. Norfolk St., 6:30 p.m.

_____

Oregon Ducks wide receiver Justius Lowe intends to enter the transfer portal, On3 Sports reports. The Lake Oswego, Ore., native caught just six passes for 56 yards in 2025 and has been used sparingly offensively.

He was expected to take a step forward after catching 21 passes for 203 yards and a touchdown in 2024, but due to injuries and other receivers such as Jeremiah McClellan and Malik Benson stepping up, Lowe saw far less action than he did a season ago.

Lowe joined the Ducks as a four-star recruit ranked as the No. 14 athlete and No. 2 player in Oregon in the 2022 class.

BREAKING: Oregon WR Justius Lowe plans to enter the @TransferPortal, he tells @On3Sports

The 6’1 195 WR has totaled 27 receptions for 259 yards & 1 TD in his time with the Ducks

He’ll have 2 years of eligibility left

Repped by @TheStandard_Cohttps://t.co/RlUbB6Fk7qpic.twitter.com/uFjEbnvfSg

— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) December 18, 2025

The news comes just hours after he was announced as "out" on Oregon's Wednesday evening injury report as the team prepares for its first-round CFP matchup with the James Madison Dukes.

Lowe joins defensive backs Dakoda Fields and Jahlil Florence, who have also announced their intentions of entering the transfer portal when it officially opens on Jan. 2, 2026.

The redshirt junior will have two years of eligibility remaining.

Contact/Follow @Ducks_Wire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Oregon Ducks news, notes, and opinions.

This article originally appeared on Ducks Wire: Oregon Ducks WR Justius Lowe intends to enter transfer portal

The San Francisco 49ers face an important decision heading into their matchup with the Indianapolis Colts, and it centers on wide receiver Ricky Pearsall.

For the first time since coming back from injury, Pearsall looked like a true offensive weapon again.

Against the Tennessee Titans, he hauled in six catches for 96 yards, a total that surpassed his combined output from Weeks 11 through 13.

#49ers Ricky Pearsall had a nice performance vs Titans pic.twitter.com/e4xz9repVW

— 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙎𝙁𝙉𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙧𝙨 (@TheSFNiners) December 15, 2025

It was also his most productive game since Week 3, when he posted eight catches for 117 yards.

The performance was encouraging, but it came at a cost.

Pearsall suffered a couple of injuries during the win, reigniting concerns about his health just as the postseason approaches.

While the 49ers made a concerted effort to get him involved, the bigger picture now demands restraint.

Sitting Pearsall against the Colts is the most brilliant move to preserve him for the playoffs.

From a strategic standpoint, this decision isn’t difficult.

The 49ers have depth at wide receiver and enough offensive firepower to handle Indianapolis without pushing Pearsall’s body too far.

While the team shouldn’t officially rule him out, gamesmanship always matters in the NFL—the in-house choice should be to keep him inactive.

Letting him rest and recover is far more valuable than squeezing out one more regular-season appearance.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan acknowledged the situation following the Titans game. “I mean, there is a concern. I think just dealing and seeing how those have gone this year,” Shanahan said via conference call on Monday. “The ankle was a tough ankle injury, but that it checked out that it wasn't a high and he was able to get through the game is somewhat encouraging. I mean, that shouldn't rule him out for this week, but that combined with the knee, I mean, he aggravated it.”

While Shanahan and Pearsall downplayed the severity in the locker room, emphasizing pain management and monitoring how things progress, caution remains essential.

Even if Pearsall starts to feel better during the week, that doesn’t mean he should suit up.

🏥 NFL injury report 🏥

Get the latest status updates for these players:

🏈 Davante Adams
🏈 Tee Higgins
🏈 Drake London
🏈 Marvin Harrison
🏈 Ricky Pearsall
🏈 Woody Marks
🏈 Christian Watson
🏈 Patrick Mahomes

... and more!

👉 Stay up to date: https://t.co/aS5gi6auVTpic.twitter.com/4FWqrSzbdy

— The Boost (@TheBoostCA) December 16, 2025

Soft-tissue and joint injuries can worsen quickly, especially for a receiver who relies on explosiveness and sharp cuts.

If there is any point in the season to give Pearsall a game off, this is it.

The playoffs are right around the corner, and the 49ers will face far more formidable defenses than the Colts.

The last thing they want is to aggravate Pearsall’s ankle or knee and risk losing him for the remainder of the year.

Protecting a key contributor now could make the difference in January, when every snap truly matters. 

Your Oregon Ducks play host to the Portland Pilots tonight, in a late night showdown!

When: Wednesday, December 17th @ 8:00 PM PST

Where: Matthew Knight Arena, Eugene, OR

Watch: Big Ten Network

‘Sco Ducks!

LUBBOCK, Texas (AP) — All-America linebacker Jacob Rodriguez plans to watch some College Football Playoff games on television this weekend, just not the one that will determine who fourth-ranked Texas Tech will play in its CFP quarterfinal game at the Orange Bowl on New Year's Day.

The Big 12 champion Red Raiders (12-1) have a bye and wait to see if they will take on Oregon or James Madison, who meet Saturday night in the last of the four first-round games. Rodriguez will wait to watch the game film on the Ducks or Dukes.

“I don’t think that watching like a TV copy helps me very much. If anything, it gives me like a skewed view, but that’s just like a personal preference that I have, nothing against anything that commentators are saying,” Rodriguez said after practice Wednesday. “I can kind of just get away from football ... and then kind of go attack the work that needs to be done. Now, I'll watch the other games.”

The Red Raiders will go about 3 1/2 weeks between games, from their 34-7 win over No. 12 BYU on Dec 6 for their first Big 12 title until their first CFP game.

Texas Tech players will have Saturday off, then practice Sunday through a walkthrough on Dec. 23 before getting to go home for Christmas.

Fourth-year coach Joey McGuire, who before the Big 12 championship got a contract extension through 2032 and a significant raise, said the Red Raiders so far have worked on base stuff they know they will run no matter the opponent.

As for the playoff games this weekend, McGuire said he will have family at his home and plans to watch even the game played in Oregon.

“We'll watch it as a family,” he said. “We'll hang out at home and watch it.”

McGuire said the great energy Tech has had in practice starts with quarterback Behren Morton running around. He missed two games because of a lower leg injury and was banged up before halftime in two others.

“I haven’t seen him run the way he’s running in a while,” McGuire said. “He's been both days full-go, and usually we move him out of some stuff. He looks really good.”

Morton, who missed their only loss at Arizona State on Oct. 18, threw for 215 yards and two touchdowns in the Big 12 title game — he has seven TDs and no interceptions his last four games. On the season, he is 201-of-300 passing (Big 12-best 67% completion) for 2,643 yards with 22 TDs and four picks.

___

Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here and here (AP News mobile app). AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football

WATERFORD – District 10 doesn’t host a girls team wrestling championship just yet.

If it did, Fort LeBoeuf and Sharpsville would rank among the top contenders in 2025-26.

They battled Dec. 17 in an action-packed dual meet. Five pins powered LeBoeuf to a 40-36 victory.

These are just two of several standout girls’ grappling rosters in D-10. In the ever-growing world of girls wrestling, below are some teams which have stood out so far this season.

Weekend roundup: District 10 wrestling notebook includes Fort LeBoeuf girls, Corry boys

LeBoeuf pins Sharpsville in opener

LeBoeuf and Sharpsville each owned a tournament team title before their clash Dec. 17.

Sharpsville won Ohio’s Boardman Lady Spartan Invitational with 108 points Dec. 8 before LeBoeuf won at Redbank Valley with 186.5 points Dec. 13. This, however, marked each side’s first dual meet.

Lexi Przybycien opened the dual with a Bison victory by major decision at 100 pounds. After Layla Colich logged a fall for Sharpsville at 106, Kiai Miklovic returned the favor for LeBoeuf at 112, preceding three consecutive Bison pins which formed a sizable lead.

Ella McGuire (124 pounds), Maya Banta (130) and Sadie Huck (136) were responsible for the falls. After forfeits to Lily Paris (155) and Zahra Al-Zamly (235), LeBoeuf squeaked by despite dropping six of 11 wrestled matches.

“We love the big crowd,” said Miklovic, a junior. “A lot of energy from them, which encourages us to wrestle better as a team and support everybody.”

Wrestlers of the week: Sharpsville, Reynolds athletes win D-10 wrestler of the week polls

Corry starts 2-0; Hickory wins at Laurel

Corry logged two dual meet wins in December, beating Hickory, 42-24, before downing General McLane, 48-24. Returning PIAA qualifiers Finley Fourspring (106 pounds) and Koda Kuzma (142) headline the Beavers’ lineup, one which also features Makenna Williams (112), who went 18-5 last year before missing the postseason.

Corry is one of five D-10 teams which will attend Pine-Richland’s Ram Slam tournament Dec. 20. Hickory, with returning state qualifier Trinity Webster, is also among them.

The Hornets won a team title at Laurel on Dec. 14, led by Webster’s individual crown at 155 pounds. Their 122 points placed them distantly ahead of runner-up Northwestern (56 points).

Technique of the Week: District 10 wrestling Technique of the Week continues at McDowell

What to watch for

D-10 girls duals are still scarce. Erie County won’t host another until LeBoeuf visits General McLane on Jan. 7.

McLane placed second behind LeBoeuf at Redbank Valley, earning 150.5 team points. Ella Clark (100 pounds), Ava Williams (142) and Whisper Abercrombie (155) each won individually.

The bulk of this season’s D-10 girls’ competitions won’t occur until January. Key tournaments include Mid-Winter Mayhem (Jan. 9-10), Sharpsville (Jan. 17) and North Allegheny (Jan. 31).

Contact Jeff Uveino at juveino@timesnews.com. Follow him on X @realjuveino. 

This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Fort LeBoeuf, Sharpsville dual among early D-10 girls wrestling action

Green Bay Packers safety Evan Williams went down with an MCL sprain against the Denver Broncos and could miss some time.

Williams has been one of the Packers' best defensive players this season and will be a major loss if he's unable to play Saturday against the Chicago Bears.

Evan Williams said he sprained his MCL on the same play Micah Parsons tore his ACL. Saw one trainer with a water bottle over him and wondered where all the others were. Called himself day-to-day ahead of Saturday night in Chicago.

— Matt Schneidman (@mattschneidman) December 17, 2025

The 24-year-old safety said he is day-to-day with the MCL sprain. He went down with the injury on the same play that superstar pass rusher Micah Parsons tore his ACL.

Losing two of Green Bay's top defensive players on the same play speaks to how things went in Week 15. 

If Williams is ruled out, the Packers will need to make some changes. They could move Javon Bullard back to safety, who has been playing in the slot.

Bullard was drafted as a safety for Green Bay in the second round of the 2024 draft, but Williams beat him out for the safety spot opposite Xavier McKinney.

However, Bullard has thrived in his new role in the slot. In Williams' potential absence, it would make sense to temporarily move Bullard back to the safety position and move cornerback Nate Hobbs into the slot.

Green Bay signed Hobbs to a four-year $48 million contract this offseason to play outside corner. Hobbs struggled with the adjustment and has been benched for Carrington Valentine. Hobbs did play well in the slot during his time with the Las Vegas Raiders.

By making this move, it would put their most talented players on the field, rather than starting a depth safety like Zayne Anderson or Kitan Oladapo.

The Packers will also need defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley to get more creative with his defense. In the 2024 season, Green Bay ran more exotic pressures and blitzes, as they didn't have an elite pass rusher like Parsons. Linebackers Quay Walker and Edgerrin Cooper will be key in generating pressure on blitzes.

While the Packers got bad news with the Parsons injury, they should breathe a sigh of relief that Williams' injury isn't long-term. When he gets back on the field, he will look to continue playing at a high level.

The Steelers wanted to add an outside linebacker, as evidenced by the team working out four on Wednesday. However, the team will be adding a different name, per a report from CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz, with Pittsburgh set to sign outside linebacker Jeremiah Moon from the Panthers’ practice squad.

By poaching Moon from a practice squad, the Steelers will have to sign him to their 53-man roster.

Moon should be a familiar name for Steelers fans. He played in 13 games for Pittsburgh in 2024, even starting one, logging nine total tackles and 222 special teams snaps. He spent the summer of 2025 with the Steelers, being released on cutdown day and picked up by Carolina.

With the Panthers this season, Moon has appeared in one game, playing six snaps on special teams.

With T.J. Watt and Nick Herbig DNPs on the injury report, the Steelers are boosting their depth at outside linebacker. The team hasn’t made the Moon signing official yet, but they’ll have to announce a corresponding release when they do.

Be sure to bookmark Behind the Steel Curtain for all the latest news, breakdowns, and more!

• Steelers work out 4 edge rushers Wednesday
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• Steelers Read & React: The new faces of PIT’s playoff push
• Report: Steelers bring back John Rhys Plumlee
• Secret Superstars 2025: How Kenneth Gainwell became Aaron Rodgers’ new best friend

During the 2025 NFL Draft, the Green Bay Packers selected three players who competed in the 2024-2025 College Football Playoffs. The 2025-2026 College Football Playoff bracket is set and it's time to go through each team and highlight prospects who could be potential targets for Brian Gutekunst in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Kicking off these team-by-team capsules will be the Alabama Crimson Tide, who will square off against the Oklahoma Sooners on Friday, Dec. 19.

Nikhai Hill-Green, LB

Although he isn't a full-time starter, the Alabama linebacker flashes every week. During his first season with the Crimson Tide, the transfer from Colorado (and Charlotte and Michigan) has recorded 51 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss and 23 run stops. Hill-Green has long strides and sideline-to-sideline range. He has an impressive wingspan to lasso ballcarriers and get his hands up to knock down passes.

Nikhai Hill-Green with the peanut punch. Love his effort/pursuit on this play. pic.twitter.com/h2p8U9u2GH

— Brennen Rupp (@Brennen_Rupp) November 13, 2025

Parker Brailsford, C

A transfer from Washington, Brailsford has started 25 games at center since joining Alabama in 2024. At 6-2 and 290 pounds, he's on the 'smaller' side. However, he's an excellent athlete and an efficient mover in the run game. In pass protection, he's got quick feet and is alert. This past season, Brailsford has given up one sack and 11 pressures.

Tim Keenan III, DT

A potential top priority for Green Bay this offseason will be bolstering its interior defensive line. They don't just need a space-eater, they need an active interior presence.

Keenan is a stout run defender. He's a roadblock in the middle of the line with a strong base to eat up double teams. The Alabama defensive tackle enters the college playoff with three tackles for loss, two sacks and 11 run stops. The numbers may not jump off the page, but his power at the point of attack does.

Tim Keenan III is a roadblock. The Alabama DT is stout and powerful.

The stats won’t jump off the page, but he’ll make an impact early in his career with his ability to clog up running lanes. pic.twitter.com/VC79i0hkfz

— Brennen Rupp (@Brennen_Rupp) December 12, 2025

James Smith, DT

The Alabama defensive tackle has disruptive tendencies. You can see the juice and twitch with the way he explodes out of his stance. To go along with that quickness, he flashes power in his hands. Smith enters Friday night's matchup with 6.5 tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks. He's a player whom the Packers could target in the upcoming draft as they look to add a disruptor to the interior of their line.

Alabama’s James Smith flashes some juice and has strong hands.

A player I’m excited to watch again next Friday. pic.twitter.com/QKB5E1KZpu

— Brennen Rupp (@Brennen_Rupp) December 13, 2025

Isaiah Horton, WR

Horton is a big-bodied target with easy track speed. The 6-4 wide receiver is an explosive playmaker who has easy buildup speed to win vertically. He's an explosive playmaker and enters Friday night's matchup against the Sooners with eight touchdowns (35 receptions). The Miami transfer could opt to return to Alabama for a second season; however, there is no denying the physical tools. If he declares, he could wind up being a Top 100 pick.

Josh Cuevas, TE

The Alabama tight end will be back on the field for the Crimson Tide on Friday after missing the last three games due to an ankle injury. Cuevas isn't an explosive athlete, however he runs routes with urgency and is fluid in his movements. He has soft, reliable hands and is always searching for the chains. Out of his 30 receptions on the season, 22 of them have resulted in a first down.

It sounds like Josh Cuevas will return to action on Friday for Alabama. The Crimson Tide TE has 30 receptions on the season and 22 of those have resulted in a first down. pic.twitter.com/j3Yyk7GNmb

— Brennen Rupp (@Brennen_Rupp) December 17, 2025

Deontae Lawson, LB

Lawson suffered a torn ACL last season and is coming on strong down the stretch. In the previous five games, Lawson has recorded 28 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss and 17 run stops, with one of those games being against Eastern Illinois, where he only played four snaps. He has looked explosive and is showcasing his range against the run.

Deontae Lawson had his best game of the season on Saturday. The Alabama LB recorded. 5 TFL and six run stops.

Coming off a torn ACL last year, he could be in store for a monster finish. pic.twitter.com/PD44tMHoUs

— Brennen Rupp (@Brennen_Rupp) November 13, 2025

Justin Jefferson, LB

Jefferson is rangy and looks comfortable in coverage. He is alert and does a good job of keying on the quarterback's eyes. It will be worth monitoring what he weighs in at throughout the process. At 6-0 and 218 pounds, he may be too light for Green Bay's liking, but if he weighs around 225 the Packers could fall in love with his play speed.

Other notes

Germie Bernard is a well-rounded wide receiver who does a bit of everything for Alabama's offense. He's a round-two player and after drafting two wide receivers in the Top 100 last year, the Packers may not use premium draft capital on the position again.

LT Overton (defensive end) is likely going to miss the game for the Crimson Tide. The former five-star recruit has six tackles for loss, four sacks and 23 pressures.

This article originally appeared on Packers Wire: Playoff Capsule: Alabama prospects to watch for Packers fans

In its final home game of 2025, UConn women’s basketball sprinted past Marquette 89-53 at PeoplesBank Arena in Hartford on Wednesday night.

Sarah Strong hit the 20-point mark for the fifth time this season with 22 while chipping in two assists, two steals and two blocks as well. The sophomore struggled to protect the ball, though, setting a new career-high with six turnovers. Azzi Fudd finished with 14 points and led the team with three steals while Serah Williams put together a second straight strong performance with 11 points and six rebounds.

Blanca Quiñonez also reached double-figures with 12 points while Kayleigh Heckel tied a career-best with nine turnovers. All 12 Huskies who played scored.

UConn seized control from the opening jump, taking a 4-0 lead before Marquette even managed to get a shot off. The Huskies used runs of 7-0, 8-0 and 5-0 to pull ahead by 15 at the end of the opening quarter. The offense faced little resistance as Fudd put up nine points on 4-4 shooting while Strong piled on 11 points behind four straight makes after missing her first three attempts.

The second quarter wasn’t quite as smooth. UConn committed eight turnovers in the frame and missed five consecutive shots at one point, though the defense picked up the slack. The Huskies allowed just three baskets in the period and none over the final 5:02. UConn ultimately took a 25-point lead into the half.

Marquette scored the first points out of the break, though it quickly went downhill from there for the visitors. The Huskies ripped off a 23-2 run that pushed the lead past 30 and then 40, which made the fourth quarter inconsequential. At the final buzzer, UConn came away with a 36-point win.

Next, the Huskies will travel to Brooklyn to take on Iowa in the Champions Classic on Saturday. Tip-off is set for approximately 1:30 p.m. ET from Barclays Center.

Anthony Joshua doubled down on his controversial "kill" comments to Jake Paul after being challenged on the comments at a news conference in Miami on Wednesday.

The remarks were first made on Tuesday when Joshua was asked whether he would hold back against Paul, with Joshua saying "if I can kill you, I'll kill".

Saturday's fight against YouTuber-turned-boxer Paul has attracted criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the fighters.

And former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury called Joshua a "classless loser" for the "kill" comments.

But Joshua, 36, said: "It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

"I'm sure many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do.

"Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's important, respectfully.

"That's just what the mentality we have to have as fighters. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more tame.

"The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a dangerous thing. Anything can happen.

"You hope your opponent leaves the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It wasn't personal."

Paul, who is a huge underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was no less incendiary in response.

"This is a modern day gladiator sport," Paul said.

"I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other."

• No script, Joshua will quickly knock Paul out - Hearn
• Paul v Joshua - all you need to know

Joshua will face Paul, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many regard as a significant mismatch, and one that should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be fought over eight three-minute rounds using standard 10oz gloves, although Joshua must not exceed 17st 7lb (111kg) at Thursday's weigh-in.

Despite the vulgar language used - with references to death widely considered beyond the bounds of boxing - Joshua said he has been "called in to save" boxing.

"They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul show and I understand it and that's why I have to carry boxing on my back in this fight," he added.

There were lighter moments however, with Joshua laughing at one point as Paul sang 'London Bridge Is Falling Down' to him, while a prediction vote from the entire undercard fighters ended in Paul's favour.

After all the talk, the face-off passed without incident with Paul striking a bizarre pose, pushing his stomach out, placing his hands on his back, raising his eyebrows and even bringing his hand to Joshua's chest.

Joshua remained composed throughout before eventually smiling and playfully grabbing Paul's necklace.

Paul & Joshua deny scripted claims

Wednesday's news conference was staged at The Fillmore Miami Beach at the Jackie Gleason Theater, a venue that hosted Frank Sinatra at his crooning peak and Miss Universe pageants during Miami Beach's mid-century boom.

The grand, old-school auditorium is a room built for spectacle, and will host a fight many still view as entertainment first and sport second.

Such is the surreal nature of this bout that some have questioned its legitimacy, with rumours circulating about contractual fine print - including suggestions Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

"There's nothing in the contract, AJ can attest to it. We're going to war," Paul said.

The Florida Athletic Commission confirmed to BBC Sport knockouts were permitted in the contest.

Joshua, wearing a silver chain reportedly worth £500,000 and gifted to him, jokingly added: "The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the money."

Paul has claimed on social media that the purse will be worth $267m (£204m).

Biggest upset in the sport's history?

Paul first made his name as an online prankster and influencer, amassing a huge social media following - particularly on Instagram, where he boasts more than 28 million followers.

He has never fought anyone close to the calibre of the former two-weight world champion but insisted Joshua would take him seriously.

"It's smart on his part," Paul said. "This could potentially be, and will be, the biggest loss of his life."

A Paul win would be arguably the biggest upset in the sport's history.

It would undoubtedly leave a indelible mark on Joshua's legacy, but the Watford fighter said it would not spell the end.

"[I would] come back again, shake it off," he said. "I'll be headlining again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a player in the game."

• Boxing schedule and results 2025
• Watch every Born to Brawl episode

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• Notifications, social media and more with BBC Sport

Australia off-spinner Nathan Lyon has overtaken legendary compatriot Glenn McGrath to move sixth in the all-time list of Test wicket-takers.

Lyon, 38, needed two wickets at the start of the third Ashes Test in Adelaide to overhaul seamer McGrath's tally of 563.

He moved level by having England's Ollie Pope caught at mid-wicket with his third ball of the game, before claiming his 564th Test scalp by bowling Ben Duckett three balls later.

Lyon is now the second-highest Australian Test wicket-taker behind the late legendary leg-spinner Shane Warne, who took 708.

He is also the the highest active player in the rankings and fourth-highest spinner, behind former Sri Lanka off-spinner Muttiah Muralitharan (800), Warne and ex-India leg-spinner Anil Kumble (619).

Retired England greats Sir James Anderson (third on 704) and Stuart Broad (fifth on 604) are the only two pace bowlers ahead of Lyon.

"What a bowler. Nathan Lyon deserves to get that," said McGrath on BBC Test Match Special.

"You wondered what impact Nathan Lyon was going to have in this game. First over, and that was a gem of a ball [to remove Ben Duckett].

"He has been brilliant for Australia. He will go down as one of the greatest Australia spin bowlers behind Shane Warne.

"Lyon is the greatest off-spin bowler for Australia, he knows the craft so well. He has been part of that big four for Australia for such a long time."

• 'He goes from Mr Bean to Thor' - Lyon's journey to 500 wickets

'A little fairytale'

Lyon returned to the Australia side for this game, having been left out for the day-night pink-ball Test in Brisbane.

It meant that Lyon, who said he felt "absolutely filthy" by the omission, had been left out of Australia's side in two of their past three matches, and he only bowled two overs in the series opener in Perth too.

Speaking before the game, Lyon, who used to be a groundsman at the Adelaide Oval, said: "I daresay it would be like a little fairytale, I guess, with my history here.

"My first ever Test match here was on the roller here back in 2010, funnily enough against England. So for me to potentially overtake Glenn McGrath here would be pretty incredible."

In the build-up to the game the South Australia Cricket Association unveiled a commemorative plaque of Lyon on their 'Avenue of Honour'.

Lyon has taken now 65 wickets at the venue, which is the most of any bowler.

England have opted not to play a specialist spinner in the series so far, with all-rounder Will Jacks asked to combine his off-spin and batting in the past two Tests.

"You're asking a spinner, but I think it's incredibly important," Lyon said when asked about the value of slow bowling in Test cricket.

"I think the variation in Test cricket, understanding that Test cricket goes for five days, and there's a lot of opportunity for pitches to wear and spinners to be able to produce their craft.

"I've always said as soon as the ball spins, there's more eyes on TVs. You look at when we go over to India, you look at the conditions there and the exciting cricket when the ball is spinning, how many people pay attention to it.

"Spin is incredibly important in the game of cricket, in junior cricket, in first-class cricket, in white ball, red ball - it doesn't matter what format."

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Hamilton (TX) defeats Joaquin (TX), 21-7: Live updates, score of Texas UIL 2A Division I title contest originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - A year ago at this time, Halston Haile was laying in a hospital bed, unsure of whether he would play football again.

Wednesday night, Haile helped his team win their first-ever state championship.

Haile, a senior running back with Hamilton, rushed for 93 yards and scored two touchdowns as the Bulldogs won their first-ever state football championship with a 21-7 against Joaquin for the University Interscholastic League 2A Division I title at AT&T Stadium.

LIVE STREAM:Victory+ (Victory Plus) will stream for free all 12 UIL state championship games (Sign up today!)

A year ago, Haile had to be hospitalized with a ruptured kidney, which he said had split into two pieces. He was still trying to process what a difference a year made in the postgame press conference following Wednesday's win.

"It's unreal, and at this time last year, I was in a hospital bed," said Haile, who was also named the Offensive Player of the Year as he gained 93 yards on 22 carries. "I mean, to be just sitting here getting interviewed after winning the state championship, it just doesn't feel real. I mean, we have a great group of guys; I'm so glad that I got to come back and play alongside all of these guys.

"It hasn't set in yet; I mean, we just played our last football game ever. We played as many as we could and we won as many as we could. It's just great to come out of this and win."

Hamilton finished its memorable year at 14-2, ending things with an 11-game winning streak. 

In the postseason, they started with a 42-20 win against Tioga in the bi-district round. They have scored 29 points or less in the next five games, but have continued to find a way to win, including last week’s 28-12 semifinal win against Stinnett West Texas.

That continued as the Bulldogs scored 21 points, but it was more than enough in a game that had two teams making its first-ever appearance in a state championship game.

Joaquin took the opening kickoff and went 65 yards in 14 plays to take a 7-0 lead. But Hamilton responded by scoring on its opening series, moving 64 yards in 13 plays to tie things up at 7-all.

The eventual tying TD came on a pass from quarterback Carson Roberts to Colter Johnson, who made a juggling catch amidst several Joaquin defenders before finally securing the ball in the end zone.

Hamilton then went in front to stay on its next possession, going 54 yards in 10 plays, with Haile scoring on a 5-yard run. Haile added his second TD on the opening series of the second half, a 1-yard run.

The Bulldogs' defense then did the rest, forcing three second-half turnovers and also stopping Joaquin - which primarily runs a wing-T offense - on downs inside the red zone, which came on a sack from Johnson, a senior tight end/defensive lineman.

"Coach (defensive coordinator Zach) Wood, he's got a great plan, and he sets us up for that wing-T," Johnson said. "Previously, we lost to two wing-T's in Crawford and San Saba, and we bounced back from that and we just hit them."

Hamilton senior linebacker Bret Bauman was named the Most Outstanding Player on defense. He had 16 total tackles, nine of those solo.

The Rams actually out-gained Hamilton, 315-214, but again, were done in by turnovers after halftime. Joaquin running back Cooper Bragg rushed for 106 yards on 22 carries, while fellow tailback Amarion Wilson had 86 yards on 15 carries.

Joaquin (11-5) finished the regular season 6-4, but turned things up a notch in its run to the title game. The Rams scored at least 35 points in all five playoff wins, including 74 in a regional semifinal win against Elysian Fields. In last week’s semifinal round, the Rams upended Refugio, 37-28.

But in Hamilton, the party is now on after a long-awaited football state championship. However, they were celebrating well before the game in anticipation of the ultimate moment.

"There were fireworks (at the team send-off Wednesday morning)," said Roberts, who passed for 100 yards. "All of the businesses (were there), everybody was up front. We drove basically through the whole town and we did a few circles.

"Everybody was outside cheering us on, and it looks like everybody showed up, too. ... It's going to be like the Fourth of July (when the team returns home); we're going to have some more fireworks."

Follow The Sporting News correspondent Buck Ringgold (@Bucks_Ballpark) for all of the live updates and scoring from Arlington.

Scroll down for live score and game updates from kickoff to the postgame. Refresh this page for the latest.

HAMILTON 21, JOAQUIN 7 FINAL

Refresh for latest

POSTGAME

- Hamilton senior running back Halston Haile named the Offensive Player of the Game. Haile rushed for 93 yards and two touchdowns. 

- Hamilton senior linebacker Bret Bauman named the Defensive Player of the Game. He had 16 total tackles, 9 of those solo. 

- Joaquin actually out-gained Hamilton, 315-214, but the Rams committed three turnovers, all in the second half. 

- Hamilton claims its first-ever football state title as the Bulldogs shut down Joaquin after the Rams began the game with a lengthy drive ending with a TD.

FOURTH QUARTER

- FUMBLE RECOVERY HAMILTON. That will do it, as Joaquin fumbles and the Bulldogs' Colter Johnson comes up with the ball with 13 seconds left. Hamilton will win its first-ever football state title. 

- Joaquin is near midfield but there's just 45 seconds to go.

- Joaquin has the ball at its 20-yard line with 1:47 left. 

- Joaquin gets a third-down stop as the two-minute warning is here. Rams will get the ball back with two time outs remaining. 

- Hamilton's Colter Johnson and Kennon Lee converge to get a sack on fourth down with 2:26 left. Bulldog faithful already starting to get giddy over the possibility of their team winning their first title. 

Hamilton’s defense comes up with its third fourth-down stop of the night. Bulldogs in position to milk some clock and try to secure this win. #TribFridayNight#OnWednesday

Hamilton 21 | Joaquin 7 | 2:18 Q4 pic.twitter.com/fgjPzxl3Em

— Michael Haag (@MichaelHaag_) December 18, 2025

- Joaquin faces a fourth-and-13 at the Hamilton 16 with under three minutes to go. 

- Joaquin out near the 10 but is going backward due to a false start and a second-down sack. Under four minutes now. 

- Conner Rios catches a pass over the middle and Joaquin has the ball near Hamilton's 20. Under six minutes now. 

- Joaquin converts on third down, and the Rams are now 7-of-11 on third-down conversions. They have the ball near midfield with about seven minutes to go.

- INTERCEPTION JOAQUIN. Rams come up with a huge play on defense, as Jacob Gatlin has his second pick of the night. He gets it at his own 25 and runs it back 10 yards to the 35 with 9:16 remaining.

- FUMBLE RECOVERY HAMILTON. Oh no, a costly turnover from the Rams as they lose the ball, and the Bulldogs' Kennon Lee makes the recovery just inside midfield nearing 10 minutes to go.

- Joaquin QB Trenton Runnels takes a keeper around the right side and gets the first down. Rams have the ball near midfield. 

- Joaquin is stopped short of a first down on the opening play of the fourth. Fourth down coming up for the Rams. 

- Attendance for tonight's game is 7,582 spectators. 

2A DI State Championship Hamilton vs Joaquin Attendance: 7,582#txhsfbpic.twitter.com/T747wAe9sP

— Texas Football Life (@txfblife) December 18, 2025

- Joaquin faces a third-and-4 from its 39 as we start the final quarter of action.

THIRD QUARTER

- Hamilton had stopped Joaquin on third down, but the Bulldogs are penalized 15 yards for a face mask penalty. Rams get a first down at their 33 entering the final minute of the period.

- Hamilton can't go anywhere after recovering the Joaquin fumble, and the Bulldogs will punt it away, and it's a great bounce before being downed at the Rams' 4 with 4:23 left in the third.

- FUMBLE RECOVERY HAMILTON. Joaquin converts on a third-and-long to move the chains, but on the very next play, the Rams fumble it away. The Bulldogs' Luke York makes the recovery at the Rams' 35 with more than five minutes left in the period. 

- Joaquin mishandles the ensuing kickoff, and the Rams recover, but have to start at its own 9. 

- TOUCHDOWN HAMILTON. Opening second-half drive takes exactly three minutes, as the Bulldogs go 55 yards in six plays. Halston Haile with his second TD on the night, going up and over from a yard out. (Hamilton, 21-7 | 9:00, 3rd) 

When in doubt, Pierce Summers it out.

The Bulldogs fell into a 2nd-and-26 after a holding penalty and loss, but QB Roberts connected twice with WR Summers, a lanky 6-foot-6 wideout, for 60 yards.

RB Haile finishes the drive with a 1-yard TD.

Hamilton 21 | Joaquin 7 | 9:00 Q3 pic.twitter.com/B3BqdSzFRC

— Michael Haag (@MichaelHaag_) December 18, 2025

- Hamilton WR Pierce Summers makes back-to-back leaping grabs, and the Bulldogs are already knocking at the door, with the ball inside the Joaquin 15. 

- Hamilton to get the ball to start the second half, and the Bulldogs will get great field position as a short kickoff goes out of bounds. Bulldog ball at their 45. 

HALFTIME

- Stats are fairly even. Hamilton has 144 total yards, 104 of that coming on the ground, while Joaquin had 138 total yards in the first half, with all but 7 of those yards via the rush. Hamilton also had 10 first downs to Joaquin's nine. Another stat that stands out is that the Rams were 1-for-3 on fourth-down conversions, while Hamilton completed its only fourth-down try in the half.

SECOND QUARTER

- INTERCEPTION JOAQUIN. Jacob Gatlin picks off a pass on the final play of the first half and gets it into Hamilton territory before being brought down to around the 35. Bulldogs go into the locker room up by seven.

- Hamilton stops Joaquin short of the sticks and the Bulldogs take over with 15 seconds left. 

- Joaquin faces a fourth down inside the Hamilton 30 entering the final minute in the half. 

- Joaquin running back Amarion Wilson breaks loose for a 22-yard gain on third-and-short, and the Rams are at the Hamilton 34 as we are at the two-minute warning. 

- Joaquin converts a fourth-and-short to its 35-yard line and keeps the chains moving as we're under four minutes to go in the half. 

- TOUCHDOWN HAMILTON. Bulldogs score on their second straight drive, moving 54 yards in 10 plays. It ends with a 5-yard run into the end zone from senior running back Halston Haile. (Hamilton, 14-7 | 6:27, 2nd) 

Touchdown Halston Haile @HtownBulldogs
Score 14-7 Bulldogs
6:00 minutes left in half#TXHSFB#UILStatepic.twitter.com/rHRpFOPHSD

— Taylor Arenz (@taylorarenz) December 18, 2025

- Hamilton's Devin Eanes appeared to make a touchdown catch, but after a lengthy replay review, it was determined that the ball had hit the ground while attempting to secure it, so the call was overturned. Bulldogs do have a first-and-goal at the Joaquin 5 with more than six minutes to go in the half. 

- Hamilton inside the Joaquin 35, determined to take its first lead of the night. 

- Joaquin goes for it on a fourth down just past midfield, but a pass goes incomplete. Hamilton takes over with good field position with less than 10 minutes to go in the first half. 

- Joaquin has the ball near its 35 as we start the second quarter of action.

FIRST QUARTER

- TOUCHDOWN HAMILTON. Wow, what concentration from Hamilton's TE Colter Johnson, who juggles the ball three times amidst a crowd of Joaquin defenders before securing it in the end zone, as the Bulldogs answer Joaquin with a TD drive of their own to start, going 64 yards in 13 plays. We are tied. (7-7 | :39, 1st) 

Touchdown Bulldogs❗️

13 yard pass by Carson Roberts to Colter Johnson who makes a nice catch

Hamilton 7, Joaquin 7 - 1Q 39sec pic.twitter.com/ucT4t7vTMg

— Juwan Davis (@MrJDavis96) December 18, 2025

- Hamilton now with a first down inside the 15 inside the final minute of the quarter. 

- Hamilton converts the fourth down as Devin Eanes catches a pass over the middle from quarterback Carson Roberts. Bulldogs' ball at the Joaquin 25. 

- Hamilton faces a fourth-and-5 at the Joaquin 35 with 1:50 left in the quarter. 

- Hamilton is into Joaquin territory, with a first down at the Rams' 40 with more than three minutes to go in the period. 

- Hamilton calls for a fair catch at its own 36 as the Bulldogs field the ensuing kickoff following the long march from Joaquin. 

- TOUCHDOWN JOAQUIN. Rams strike first with a very impressive opening drive, covering 65 yards in 14 plays, as quarterback Trenton Runnels takes in a keeper from a yard out. Drive took nearly eight minutes to complete. (Joaquin, 7-0 | 4:21, 1st) 

Joaquin scores first on a 1-yard TD by QB Trenton Runnels. Capped a 14-play (all rushes), 65-yard drive that took 7 1/2 minutes off the clock.

That slot-t is deadly.

Joaquin 7 | Hamilton 0 | 4:21 Q1 pic.twitter.com/mylx6QVUtF

— Michael Haag (@MichaelHaag_) December 18, 2025

- Another successful third-down conversion for Joaquin, which is now in the red zone.

- Joaquin converts on third-and-short, and the Rams are inside the Hamilton 30 on the opening series. 

- Joaquin is in Hamilton territory, with a first down at the Bulldogs' 40. 

- Short kickoff, fielded by Joaquin around the 30, and the Rams takes it a few yards to the 35, where they will set up shop. 

PREGAME

- Hamilton has won the toss, and will defer to the second half. Joaquin to receive the opening kick. 

- Hamilton is the visiting team, and the Bulldogs are wearing red helmets, white jerseys and white pants. Joaquin is the home team and are wearing white helmets, black jerseys and black pants. 

- Live from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, a pair of teams making its state title game debut square off, as Hamilton takes on Joaquin for the UIL 2A Division I championship.

From a town of less than 800 people #txhsfb@KtalSportspic.twitter.com/v5qFMXmSDR

— Kylee Corman (@KyleeCorman) December 18, 2025

MORE HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS NEWS

Texas high school football UIL playoff updated scores, state title pairings

Buford (GA) edges Carrollton (GA), 28-21: Live updates, score of highly anticipated Georgia GHSA Class 6A state championship game between 14-0 squads

The Sporting News 2025 High School Football Top 25 - Week 19: December 16

The Florida Gators men's basketball team took care of business Wednesday night with a 102-61 win over the Saint Francis Red Flash.

Xaivian Lee led all scorers with 18 points on 7-for-9 shooting (2-for-4 from 3-point range). Alex Condon (14 points) and Rueben Chinyelu (12), Boogie Fland (11) and sixth man Urban Klavzar (11) also reached double figures in a well-balanced attack from the Gators. Chinyelu stayed in just long enough to notch his fifth double-double of the year.

The only starter who laid low was Thomas Haugh. He's averaging 35 minutes per game and only played 25 in this one, posting five points, four assists and three rebounds.

Florida played 13 players, including Olivier Rioux, who entered the game with 1:46 left to go. He threw down a dunk for the Gators' final points.

Florida had things wrapped up by halftime

The Gators led 47-23 at halftime and led in every statistical category that matters. Florida shot 64% from the field and 36% from 3-point range. They dominated the glass, outrebounding the Red Flash 22-9. Five offensive rebounds is low for the Gators, but poor shooting usually leads to more opportunities. Golden probably didn't care about that figure being low.

Golden puts a heavy focus on "kills," which is when the defense makes three consecutive stops. Florida did it four times in the first half, including a five-possession stretch that started just before the 12-minute mark hit. The other two areas he wants his team to work on are defending without fouling and limiting turnovers. Florida forced five turnovers and had four blocks to just five personal fouls, including two uncharacteristic ones from Xaivian Lee. That's one box checked off.

Turning the ball over six times might not have sat well with him, but that's the only complaint anyone can have over the first 20 minutes.

The Gators dominated the frontcourt battle all night

Everyone knows Florida's frontcourt is elite. There was never a chance for Saint Francis' bigs to outplay them, but it's still fun to see these guys completely outclass their opponents. Rueben Chinyelu got any rebound he wanted, and it only took a matter of minutes for him to polish off his double-double after finishing the first half with two. He also shot 5-for-5 from the field.

Alex Condon had one of his better offensive performances of the year. His arsenal of post moves could have led to a 40-point game, but Golden and Co. chose to be respectful and limit him to 14 — 12 of which came in the first half. Don't forget about the three blocks, too. The only problem with Condon's game is that he's hoisting up bricks from deep. The 3-point shot is failing him this year — 0-for-2 tonight — and it might be time to quit trying them.

Micah Handlogten went 4-for-4 from the field and hit both his free throws, finishing one leg of a double-double over 17 minutes. He tied Chinyelu with four offensive boards, but he came up two total rebounds short of the 10 he needed for the second leg. Still, it was one of his better nights since breaking his leg in the 2024 SEC Championship game.

Florida bench gets some action

Golden mentioned after the George Washington win that he'd like the bench players to show a bit more. This felt like the right game to get them in, and there was some good and bad.

Aside from Handlogten, Urban Klavzar played 23 minutes, scoring 11 points, including a pair of 3-pointers. Four turnovers isn't great, though, even if one was an alley-oop attempt to Olivier Rioux, who wasn't looking for it.

Isaiah Brown, CJ Ingram and Alex Lloyd played 15, 12 and seven minutes, respectively. Brown was the most effective with a plus-minus of 17, one higher than Klavzar. He threw down an alley-oop dunk and hit a 3 as well. Ingram buried a corner three but ran into some foul trouble (three), albeit with some soft calls going against him. Lloyd struggled the most, going 0-for-2 with both shots coming from beyond the arc. He's still a freshman, so give him time to develop.

The reserves got some playing time too. Chants of "we want Olly" started with six minutes left in the game. He only got to play about 100 seconds of ball, though. Rioux made the most of it, throwing down his first dunk at the college level. Viktor Mikic had four points, a 3-pointer and a free throw, and Alex Kovatchev buried an NBA-range 3.

Follow us @GatorsWire on X, formerly known as Twitter, as well as Bluesky, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Florida Gators news, notes and opinions.

This article originally appeared on Gators Wire: Florida Gators basketball vs. Saint Francis Red Flash recap, takeaways

After meeting with 10 players on Tuesday, the Steelers worked out for more on Wednesday, according to KPRC2’s Aaron Wilson.

Pittsburgh worked out edge rushers Ronnie Perkins, Isaiah Thomas, Casey Toohill, and Oshane Ximines.

Perkins has one of the best pedigrees of the bunch, a former third-round pick by the Patriots in 2021. He’s bounced around the league since, most recently spending time on the Atlanta Falcons’ practice squad. He’s appeared in seven career NFL games, all with the Broncos in 2023, where he recorded 13 total tackles and two tackles for loss. The 6’3, 253-pound outside linebacker scored a 4.73 RAS coming out of college.

Thomas was a seventh-round draft pick by the Cleveland Browns in 2022. He was most recently on the Bengals’ practice squad. He’s played in 12 career NFL games, with 12 total tackles and one sack. The 6’5, 272-pound defensive end recorded a 9.1 RAS the year he was drafted.

Toohill was also a seventh-round pick, in 2020 by the Eagles. He was most recently on the Houston Texans. He has the most experience of the group Pittsburgh worked out, with 71 career games played and 15 starts. In 2023 with the Washington Commanders, where he recorded eight of those starts, he had 26 combined tackles and five sacks. The 6’5, 250-pound defender logged a 9.69 RAS coming out of college.

Ximines is also a former third-round pick, selected by the New York Giants in 2019. He’s spent most of his career with New York, but spent 2024 with the Patriots. He has played in 50 career games with nine starts. After recording 4.5 sacks his rookie season, he’s logged just two more over the following five years. The 6’4, 254-pound defensive end recorded a 7.02 RAS in 2019.

With Pittsburgh exploring additions in its outside linebacker room, it’s an ominous sign for the availability of T.J. Watt and Nick Herbig in Week 16 against the Lions.

Several starters were missing at Wednesday's practice for the New England Patriots.

The timing isn't the greatest ahead of a pivotal Sunday Night Football showdown with the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday. A win for the Patriots would clinch a spot in the postseason and keep them in the hunt for the No. 1 seed in the AFC conference.

They'll need to get healthier by game day to overcome a desperate Ravens team on the road. Veteran cornerback Carlton Davis III, cornerback Marcus Jones, edge rusher Harold Landry III and linebacker Robert Spillane were all listed as non-participants at practice due to an injury. Linebacker Christian Elliss was also sidelined with an illness.

However, the Patriots aren't alone in their concerns for availability for the Week 16 game. The Ravens were missing several players as well, including quarterback Lamar Jackson and linebacker Roquan Smith.

Here is the injury report for both teams on Wednesday:

Patriots injury report

Did Not Participate

• CB Carlton Davis III - Hip
• LB Christian Elliss - Illness
• CB Marcus Jones - Knee
• LB Harold Landry - Knee
• LB Robert Spillane - Ankle

Limited Participant

• DT Christian Barmore - Not Injury Related / Other

Full Participant

• None Listed

Ravens injury report

Did Not Participate

• CB Chidobe Awuzie - Foot
• LB Teddye Buchanan - Knee
• QB Lamar Jackson - Illness
• LB Roquan Smith - Knee
• T Ronnie Stanley - Knee/Ankle
• OLB Kyle Van Noy - Quad

Limited Participant

• LB Jay Higgins IV - Knee
• S Keondre Jackson - Ankle

Full Participant

• WR Rashod Bateman - Ankle
• DT C.J. Okoye - Quad

Follow Patriots Wire on Twitter and Facebook.

This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: Patriots Wednesday Week 16 injury report: Multiple starters out

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Xaivian Lee scored 18 points, Alex Condon added 14, and No. 23 Florida got a break from one of the toughest nonconference schedules in the country with a 102-61 victory against Saint Francis on Wednesday night.

The Gators (7-4) never trailed while dominating every aspect of their first home game in nearly a month.

Florida made 15 of its first 20 shots while building a 20-point lead and enjoyed enough of a cushion that coach Todd Golden was able to get his bench extended minutes.

Students started chanting for 7-foot-9 center Olivier Rioux with more than six minutes to play. The world’s tallest teenager — standing 15 inches taller than any of his opponents — entered in the final minutes and got a dunk for his first collegiate field goal.

Rueben Chinyelu added 12 points and 11 rebounds for Florida. Boogie Fland and Urban Klavzar chipped in 11 points apiece for the defending national champions, who have losses to three teams now ranked in the top five: Arizona, Duke and UConn.

Saint Francis (2-10) lost by at least 25 points for the seventh time this season. The Red Flash entered the game ranked 361st out of 365 Division I teams in KenPom ratings, making them the worst team to visit the O’Connell Center in the KenPom era (since 1996-97).

The Red Flash entered the game as 45 ½-point underdogs according to BetMGM Sportsbook and trailed by as many as 25 in the first half. The Gators stretched their lead to 61-31 shortly after the break and piled on from there.

Skylar Wicks, a senior attending his fifth school, led Saint Francis with 22 points. He took 22 of the team’s 63 shots.

Saint Francis hosts Robert Morris on Saturday.

Florida hosts Colgate on Sunday.

___

Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here and here (AP News mobile app). AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football

Here's how the Denver Broncos can clinch home-field advantage throughout playoffs in Week 16 originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Denver Broncos are on a mission to obtain the AFC's No. 1 seed in order to gain home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. The team knows that having any of its postseason opponents having to come to Denver would be a huge obstacle to overcome. 

While it will take several things to bounce their way, there is a scenario in which the Broncos could clinch that No. 1 seed as early as this Sunday. It's an unlikely scenario, but there is a path that creates somewhat of a rooting guide for Broncos fans for this weekend's action. 

The Broncos control their own destiny in the race for the top spot in the AFC, so as long as they keep winning, no one will catch them. But here's how they could clinch that spot in Week 16. 

Denver Broncos clinch AFC's No. 1 seed in Week 16 if...

Broncos win vs. Jacksonville

This goes without saying, but the Broncos need to win to keep others from stealing their spot. Much like last week, it won't come easily. The Broncos have won 11 games in a row but Jacksonville is riding a five-game win streak. 

They are two of the hottest teams in the league. For Jacksonville, quarterback Trevor Lawrence is coming off what was arguably the best game of his career last week, in which he threw five touchdown passes and ran for another in a win over the New York Jets. 

They won't be intimidated by the Broncos.

Chargers loss or tie vs. Dallas Cowboys

Despite being 12-2, the Broncos have not even clinched the division title yet because of how good the Los Angeles Chargers have been. The Chargers are 10-4 this season and handed the Broncos one of their two losses. If the Broncos lose and the Chargers win this weekend, tension is going to skyrocket as the Broncos and Chargers are still set to square off one more time this season. 

The Cowboys are a capable team, especially at home, so fans should be rooting for them to pull this one off to create some more breathing space for the Broncos. 

Patriots lose to Baltimore

The Patriots were right there with the Broncos for the fight for the No. 1 spot with just two losses, but a loss to the Buffalo Bills in Week 15 knocked them down a peg. Now the Broncos need them to drop a second game in a row. 

The Ravens have not played well this season, but they are still in the thick of the playoff race and this game will be played at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore. 

Bills loss or tie vs. Cleveland

Keep in mind, the Broncos don't just need one of these things to happen, they need them all to happen. It's much like hitting a four-leg parlay. This would be the one with the worst odds. 

The Bills and Browns are on completely different ends of the spectrum at this stage in the season. It will be played in Cleveland, which is about the only thing the Browns have going for them going into it. Stranger things have happened, but this one would be really strange.

READ:Broncos should strongly consider a Justin Simmons reunion

The most important thing for the Broncos is to just take care of their own business. A loss opens the door to so many possibilities, including dropping all the way down to a wild card. The AFC is quite competitive and the Broncos have several teams nipping at their heels. 

More Broncos News

Sean Payton's latest roster move may bring Broncos keen insight for big game vs. Jaguars

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Broncos' Riley Moss has become a victim of NFL officials, which has created a false narrative

As long as Justin Alumbaugh is head coach of the De La Salle Spartans (Calif.), don’t expect a couple things to ever change about the program: Pursuing transfers and going away from the veer option offense.

According to a report by The Mercury News on Wednesday, the storied California high school football program made it be known publicly that despite having lost eight consecutive CIF bowl games, including last week’s 47-13 Open Division championship to Santa Margarita Catholic, they won’t be changing how they do things.

“I’m trying to make De La Salle and our standard as best as we can possibly be without any deviance from who we’ve been in any way shape or form,” Alumbaugh said via the report. “I think what we’re seeing a lot in high school athletics is not educational athletics. I have to fight my own competitive instinct sometimes. I don’t want to lose. … I’m trying to focus on creating a legitimate, real Friday night lights atmosphere where we’re going to coach our kids, get the best out of them and hope for the best.”

“I think the pressure to win and the pressure to succeed can sometimes be very consuming. I also don’t want to diminish from educational athletics. You get a kid that transfers in and replaces Bubba Vargas. What does that say about me? So in that regard, yeah, I hope we rein this in a little bit.”

De La Salle just completed their 2025 season, finishing with a 12-1 record, the lone loss coming at the end of the season. The Spartans have been able to uphold the program’s winning pedigree behind what wouldn’t be viewed as a modern offense.

The Spartans have won eight CIF championships in the modern era and own the nation’s longest win streak at 151 games in a row, which ran from the start of the 1992 season through Sep. 4, 2004 when De La Salle lost to Bellevue (Wash.).

This past 2025 season, the Spartans had some impressive wins as they opened up the campaign with a 10-6 win over Florida Class 5A state finalist Lakeland, Cathedral Catholic, Junipero Serra and Pittsburg, respectively.

Alumbaugh’s team relied heavily on the ground game, rushing for 3,528 yards and scoring 53 touchdowns. In comparison to De La Salle’s passing attack, which generated 1,207 yards and 11 scores through the air.

Despite not lining up in shotgun spread sets every play or bringing in an abundance of transfers during the off-season, De La Salle has remained among one of the top high school football programs out of the state of California.

More about De La Salle High School

De La Salle High School, located in Concord, California, is a prestigious private Catholic institution known for its rigorous academics, competitive athletics, and commitment to spiritual development. Offering a variety of AP and honors courses, the school prepares students for higher education and future careers. De La Salle’s athletic teams are highly competitive, frequently achieving state championships. Emphasizing leadership, faith, and community service, the school ensures students are well-rounded and ready for future challenges.

How to Follow California High School Football

For California high school football fans looking to keep up with scores around the nation, staying updated on the action is now easier than ever with the Rivals High School Scoreboard. This comprehensive resource provides real-time updates and final scores from across the Golden State, ensuring you never miss a moment of the Friday night frenzy. From nail-biting finishes to dominant performances, the Rivals High School Scoreboard is your one-stop destination for tracking all the high school football excitement across the state of California.

Florida basketball had no problems handling the St. Francis Red Flash, who fell to the Gators inside the O'Connell Center on Wednesday night, 102-61.

It was a clear mismatch from the start, with the Orange and Blue grabbing the wheel from the get-go and going wire-to-wire in its seventh victory of the season so far. But even though the game was well out of reach by the time the final minutes arrived, the world's tallest teenager checked into the game to raise the excitement level back up to a feverish point.

Center Olivier Rioux checked in with 1:46 remaining in the second half and just over a minute later, scored his first-ever field goal at the men's college basketball level. The bucket came on a broken play that saw the towering redshirt freshman cutting through the lane for the score.

YEAHHHH OLLIE 🤯🫨

📺 SECN pic.twitter.com/TQaS5PjoDa

— Florida Gators Men’s Basketball (@GatorsMBK) December 18, 2025

His score represents Florida's final points tallied on Wednesday night.

The last time Rioux took the court was Dec. 22, when he notched his first collegiate point (via free throw) and rebound against the Merrimack Warriors in Gainesville; his collegiate debut came on Nov. 7 against the UNF Ospreys.

Follow us @GatorsWire on X, formerly known as Twitter, as well as Bluesky, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Florida Gators news, notes and opinions.

This article originally appeared on Gators Wire: Florida basketball's Olivier Rioux's first ever collegiate basket

Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon struck damaging blows to leave England reeling at 59-3 at lunch on day two of the crunch third Ashes Test after they dismissed Australia for 371.

The visitors trailed by 312 after the hosts added 45 to their overnight 326-8 as temperatures soared to 39 Celsius. 

Joe Root was not out 11 and Harry Brook on six in a Test England must win.

Australia lead the five-match series 2-0 and will retain the urn if they win or draw after back-to-back eight-wicket thumpings in Perth and Brisbane.

On a pitch perfect for batting, opening pair Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley saw off the early overs from Mitchell Starc and Cummins.

But it was a mirage, with Cummins tempting an edge from Crawley to wicketkeeper Alex Carey on nine in the Australian skipper's first Test since July after lower back issues.

In a stroke of genius, Cummins then brought on spin king Lyon, who was controversially left out for the second pink-ball clash at the Gabba.

He grabbed two wickets in a sensational opening over with a hapless Ollie Pope (3) flicking to Josh Inglis at midwicket then bowling Duckett for 29.

The hosts resumed at 326-8 on the back of Alex Carey's 106 and a gritty 82 from a rejuvenated Usman Khawaja, with Starc on 33 and Lyon yet to score.

England were frustrated again by Starc, who hit a fighting rearguard 77 in Brisbane and threatened to do the same.

He plundered five quick boundaries before being bowled by Jofra Archer for 54.

Lyon and Scott Boland then piled on more misery in a 23-run last-wicket stand before Lyon was trapped lbw for nine by Archer, who ended with 5-53.

Carey was the star of the show in an absorbing opening day with an emotional century on his home ground just months after his father died.

But it was shrouded in controversy over a Snicko technology error when he was on 72 and given not out.

England failed to have the decision overturned on review with replays showing a noise spike before the ball reached his bat.

After play ended, Carey conceded he likely edged a delivery from Josh Tongue that was caught behind and the technology operator admitted there had been an error.

mp/dh

'I’m going to pray': Nebraska's Matt Rhule breaks silence on Dylan Raiola's transfer originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Nebraska coach Matt Rhule publicly addressed Dylan Raiola’s transfer for the first time Wednesday night, carrying a supportive tone while ready to find the program’s future quarterback. 

During an interview on the Huskers Radio Network, Rhule said he wished Raiola well after the former starter entered the transfer portal earlier this week following nearly two seasons in Lincoln.

“If he needs a fresh start, I’m going to pray that he finds the right place and that he has so much success,” Rhule said. “With that being said, there’s a lot of great QBs out there and a lot of guys who want to play at Nebraska.”

Matt Rhule on Dylan Raiola's transfer on the Huskers Radio Network:

"If he needs a fresh start I’m going to pray that he finds the right place and that he has so much success. With that being said, there’s a lot of great QBs out there and a lot of guys want to play at Nebraska.”

— Luke Mullin (@LjsLuke) December 18, 2025

Raiola went 13-9 as Nebraska’s starting quarterback before a season-ending injury in a 21-17 loss to USC on Nov. 1 effectively closed his time with the Cornhuskers. The former No. 3-ranked quarterback in the Class of 2024 arrived with significant expectations after being heavily recruited by all the top schools. 

Raiola was viewed as a key piece in Nebraska’s rebuild, but Rhule believes that roster construction has evolved in the transfer portal era and it's time to move on. 

Nebraska intents to move forward quickly, confident the program remains an attractive destination as it searches for its next quarterback.

More college football news: 

• Deion Sanders buyout, contract details as Colorado Buffaloes coach
• Pat McAfee delivers reality check to Diego Pavia for Heisman weekend antics
• Fernando Mendoza won't keep the Heisman Trophy
• Why LSU should be extremely nervous about Michigan firing Sherrone Moore

Aditya Mittal, chief executive of a global steel giant, had explored a bid to become lead governor but eventually backed Chisholm with a $100 million commitment. Mittal’s interest swelled during visits to Boston, though, and he upped his stake to $1 billion and became alternate governor. Pagliuca also released investors from his group, allowing them to join Chisholm. And Wyc Grousbeck, who remains a visible presence within the franchise, wound up with a 13 percent stake. It will be reduced to about 3 percent when the second phase of the deal closes in 2028.

Boston Globe

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Wyc Grousbeck stake in Celtics expected to be reduced to three percent in 2028

Three years later, Chisholm co-founded the software-focused private equity firm Symphony Technology Group, and he became a shrewd dealmaker who found potential in flawed businesses. In one early transaction, he bought a struggling company that scraped data from UPC codes for about $100 million. Chisholm helped revive the business and sold it for nearly $1 billion about six years later. According to industry sources, there had been discussions within the Grousbeck family about selling in 2033. But the decision to divest sooner for estate and family-planning purposes was made in January by the family’s patriarch, 91-year-old Irv Grousbeck. Irv’s son, Wyc, who has been lead owner since the family purchased the team from Paul Gaston for $320 million in 2002, thought it was too soon.

Boston Globe

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Grousbeck family originally discussed selling Celtics in 2033

Grousbeck and other executives were relieved that Chisholm’s passion for the team appeared authentic. He told a story about the 1980s broadcast crew of Bob Cousy and Gil Santos. He said how Leon Powe, a role player on the 2008 title team, was his favorite Celtic ever. “This wasn’t what I wanted to do at all, sell the team,” Wyc Grousbeck said. “But if we’re going to sell it, I knew at the first meeting that selling to Bill would be a fantastic outcome.”

Boston Globe

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: “This wasn’t what I wanted to do at all, sell the …

“I like to test myself,” Chisholm said, “and do things that are hard.” That was part of his calculus when he called old soccer teammate and BDT & MSD Partners executive Gregg Lemkau in the summer of 2024 after his bank was hired to advise the controlling stakeholders, the Grousbeck family, on the sale of the Celtics. Suddenly, it felt as if they were back in a Dartmouth dorm. “Hey, Lem, I saw you were hired to sell the Celtics,” Chisholm recalled saying. “Yeah, pretty cool, right?” Lemkau responded. Chisholm agreed, and added that he wanted to buy the team that had coursed through his veins since he was a child. Lemkau thought Chisholm was making a joke. “Dude,” he said, “you don’t have that kind of scratch.”

Boston Globe

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: That was part of his calculus when he called old …

When the March 14 deadline arrived, Chisholm submitted his final bid at an initial valuation of $6.1 billion, which would increase to approximately $6.6 billion when the second part of the deal closes in 2028, thanks in large part to the media rights windfall. Sources said the bid from Middleman was $100 million less than Chisholm, while Pagliuca trailed by about $500 million. But Pagliuca’s offer was fully funded, sources said, and despite Chisholm’s massive $1 billion pledge from the private equity firm Sixth Street, he had less guaranteed capital.

Boston Globe

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Sources said the bid from Middleman was $100 million …

Alex Sarr is expected to make his return from the adductor injury that kept him sidelined for the month of December on Thursday against the Spurs. The Wizards released their injury report (via Twitter), which didn’t include either him or Bilal Coulibaly, who has missed the last four games with an oblique injury.

Hoops Rumors

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Alex Sarr, Bilal Coulibaly off injury report against Spurs

After a three-day break in their schedule, the Los Angeles Lakers will be in Salt Lake City on Thursday to take on the Utah Jazz. The Jazz may have a dismal 10-15 record, but they have won five of their last eight games, and they're capable of putting a high number of points on the board.

Right now, given their defensive problems, the Lakers cannot take any team lightly. That is especially true given their injury report for Thursday's game. Not only will Austin Reaves continue to sit due to a calf strain, but starting center Deandre Ayton will not play due to elbow soreness.

Deandre Ayton is out and Gabe Vincent is questionable for the Utah game pic.twitter.com/r9gTv8Gofw

— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) December 18, 2025

Ayton has been playing some good basketball this season for Los Angeles. He's averaging 15.3 points and nine rebounds a game, and his effort on the boards has been outstanding. He's also shooting an incredible 71% from the field, which is a result of all the easy baskets his teammates have been getting him and his ability to convert at a high rate near the rim.

After Thursday's game, L.A. will visit the Los Angeles Clippers on Saturday before visiting the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday, Dec. 23.

This article originally appeared on LeBron Wire: Lakers release injury report for Thursday's game versus Jazz

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Will Tua Tagovailoa ever start again for the Miami Dolphins? Yahoo Sports' Andrew Siciliano, Jori Epstein and Ben Fawkes discuss the benching of the QB, with rookie Quinn Ewers set to take over for the rest of the season. They move on to debate whether the Atlanta Falcons will start the 2026 season with Kirk Cousins as signal caller, before discussing the latest cryptic comments from Joe Burrow and Zac Taylor. Andrew also sits down with Amon-Ra St. Brown to discuss the 2025 NFL season, as well as his Christmas priorities ahead of the holiday. Closing things out, the crew breaks down the enormous matchup between the Los Angeles Rams and Seattle Seahawks before discussing their "One More Thing".

(4:48) - Dolphins bench Tua Tagovailoa

(16:14) - Could Kirk Cousins start next season for the Falcons?

(23:58) - Amon-Ra St. Brown joins the show!

(32:56) - What changes do the Bengals have to make this offseason?

(47:28) - Puka Nacua trashes NFL referees

(1:01:41) - One More Thing

🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTube

Check out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at Yahoo Sports Podcasts

Dec. 17—GRAND FORKS — As the offseason arrives for the UND football program, it can be a challenge to stay current with the comings and goings of a program.

On this page, Herald UND football beat reporter Tom Miller will track who's saying what when it comes to the 2026 Fighting Hawks season.

2026 transfer portal exits

Sawyer Seidl, RB

Emmanuel Olagbaju, DT

Antonio Bluiett, CB

Nick Darling, OL

B.J. Fleming, WR

Etienne Higgins, QB

Kuba Tyszka, OL

Randle Parker, RB

Seth Staloch, WR/TE

Idrique Carmichael, CB

Karter Peterson, TE

CJ Elrichs, K

Announced return

Mason South, FB

Nathan Hromodka, TE

Liam Becher, OL

Ben Buxa, OL

Isaac Cariveau, OL

Trace Thaden, OL

Caleb Olson, OL

Ayden Teeter, OL

2026 transfer portal commitments

Marquis Edmond, Virginia State, S

Texas A&M (11-1, 7-1 SEC) is just three days away from hosting Miami (10-2) in the first round of the College Football Playoff, which will be the first appearance in the tournament for both programs, and is considered the best game of the weekend. Set to kick off at 11:00 a.m. CT on Saturday, the first injury report was released for both teams on Wednesday night.

For the Aggies, star running back Le'Veon Moss, who missed the last six games of the regular season, returned to practice this week, going through a full workload on Tuesday afternoon, but according to head coach Mike Elko, this is a "wait-and-see" situation.

According to the injury report, Moss is listed as "questionable" with a 50% chance to play. In contrast, senior linebacker Scooby Williams and safety Bryce Anderson are listed as "probable" with a 75% chance to return to the field. This is the first time in nearly two months that Moss hasn't been listed as either "doubtful" or out, and while Elko would like to keep his return under wraps, this designation sums things up.

Williams ' potential return provides a significant boost to Texas A&M's run defense, which has struggled early in games, while his size and instincts have been missed in coverage. Anderson, who will likely redshirt to return next season, hasn't played most of the year after a heady injury against Notre Dame effectively shut him down.

For Miami, star cornerback Keionte Scott, who mas missed most of the year with turf toe, is listed as probable and is expected to make his return on Saturday, which is big news for the secondary.

The initial CFP availability report ahead of Saturday's first-round contest between #7 Texas A&M and #10 Miami: pic.twitter.com/o2oyw8H6J6

— TexAgs (@TexAgs) December 18, 2025

Contact/Follow us @AggiesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes and opinions. Follow Cameron on X: @CameronOhnysty.

This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: Texas A&M RB Le'Veon Moss listed as 'questionable' CFP injury report

All the momentum Xavier had built with an 8-3 non-conference record this season seemed squandered in a lackluster performance Dec. 17.

Facing a Creighton team that was .500 (5-5) and had been blown out in its only two road games of the season, Xavier had no answer in Wednesday's Big East opener in a 98-57 loss at Cintas Center.

Xavier was trying to sweep a 5-game homestand and win its sixth straight overall. That went out the window in a hurry as Creighton dominated on both sides of the ball in the largest loss in Xavier history at Cintas Center.

More: 'It's gonna get real now.' Keys for Xavier success in Big East play

Creighton let's it fly, punishes Xavier's defense

Pitino had wanted Xavier to develop a "defensive confidence" heading into the 20-game Big East gauntlet.

Thriving on defense seems further away now after Creighton came to Cintas Center and did whatever it wanted to against Xavier's defense. In the first half, the Bluejays shot 58.1% from the field (18-of-31).

With 5:45 left in the first half, Creighton guard Austin Swartz's underhand alley-oop attempt was intended for big man Isaac Traudt. It was offline and instead fell harmlessly into the bucket. It was that kind of night where seemingly any Creighton shot attempt found Cintas Center nylon.

It was Swartz's breakout performance as he led Creighton's offense with a career-high 27 points. The Bluejays shot 8-of-15 from 3-point range in the first half and never cooled off, finishing 15-of-32, with Swartz hitting seven treys. It was the most 3-pointers allowed by a Xavier team at home since Evansville knocked down 17 in 2018.

Xavier offense struggles in Big East opener

Xavier's assist-to-field goals made ratio is one of the best in the country. That won't change as Xavier assisted on two-thirds of its field goals against Creighton. The problem was there weren't many made shots to celebrate.

Creighton, No. 87 in defensive efficiency, kept Xavier from establishing any type of rhythm. Xavier led, 10-6, in the first half. Creighton would score 43 of the next 55 points to take a 49-22 lead into the break.

Xavier shot just 30.8% from the field in the first half and were 2-of-11 from the perimeter, with both makes coming from Malik Messina-Moore.

Malik Messina-Moore connects from 3️⃣! pic.twitter.com/hT8h9UCAlO

— Xavier Basketball (@XavierMBB) December 17, 2025

Messina-Moore was one of the long bright spots for Xavier, hitting multiple 3-pointers for the first time since a loss to Iowa Nov. 14. The Montana transfer was also in double figures (14) for the first time since Xavier's second game of the season against Le Moyne.

Xavier leading scorer Tre Carroll was held in single digits (7) for the first time this season. Second-leading scorer Jovan Milicevic was scoreless, going 0-for-8. Roddie Anderson scored all 12 of his points in the second half. Pape N'Diaye was also in double figures with a season-high 10.

Xavier's offense uncharacteristically sloppy in loss to Creighton

Switching to a smaller lineup has helped Xavier's offense in many ways. Most notably, the Musketeers have five players on the court for the majority of the game who can handle the ball.

Xavier moved to No. 1 in the nation in KenPom in turnover percentage heading into Big East play. Those metrics took a beating in just one half as Xavier committed eight turnovers that led to 12 Creighton points.

Creighton entered the night 340th in the nation in turnover percentage and forced Xavier into 14 turnovers.

What's next for Xavier Musketeers basketball?

Xavier continues Big East play with its second true road game of the season on Saturday, Dec. 20 against Georgetown at Capital One Arena.

Georgetown started 5-0 but has dropped three of its last five games. The Hoyas opened Big East play against Marquette Wednesday in Milwaukee.

Xavier returns to Cintas Center after Christmas break to host No. 5 UConn on New Year's Eve.

Xavier women's basketball on 4-game winning streak

In Billi Chambers' first season as the head coach of Xavier women's basketball, the Musketeers went 1-27. Last season, they enjoyed a six-win improvement, finishing 7-24.

This fall, Xavier has already eclipsed last season's win total before the new year. Xavier wrapped up non-conference play Dec. 14 with a 63-51 win over Saint Francis.

XAVIER WINS!!!

The Musketeers close non-conference action with a win over the Red Flash!#MindOnMarch | #LetsGoXpic.twitter.com/j7cRUdIa3I

— Xavier Women's Basketball (@XavierWBB) December 14, 2025

It was the Musketeers' fourth straight victory, a run that included a Big East win over Providence and a road victory over UC in the Crosstown Shootout.

Xavier is 8-3 (1-1 Big East) heading into back-to-back conference road games against Butler (Dec. 19) and Seton Hall (Dec. 28).

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Analysis of Xavier Musketeers' Big East loss to Creighton Bluejays

All the momentum Xavier had built with an 8-3 non-conference record this season seemed squandered in a lackluster performance Dec. 17.

Facing a Creighton team that was .500 (5-5) and had been blown out in its only two road games of the season, Xavier had no answer in Wednesday's Big East opener in a 98-57 loss at Cintas Center.

Xavier was trying to sweep a 5-game homestand and win its sixth straight overall. That went out the window in a hurry as Creighton dominated on both sides of the ball in the largest loss in Xavier history at Cintas Center.

More: 'It's gonna get real now.' Keys for Xavier success in Big East play

Creighton let's it fly, punishes Xavier's defense

Pitino had wanted Xavier to develop a "defensive confidence" heading into the 20-game Big East gauntlet.

Thriving on defense seems further away now after Creighton came to Cintas Center and did whatever it wanted to against Xavier's defense. In the first half, the Bluejays shot 58.1% from the field (18-of-31).

With 5:45 left in the first half, Creighton guard Austin Swartz's underhand alley-oop attempt was intended for big man Isaac Traudt. It was offline and instead fell harmlessly into the bucket. It was that kind of night where seemingly any Creighton shot attempt found Cintas Center nylon.

It was Swartz's breakout performance as he led Creighton's offense with a career-high 27 points. The Bluejays shot 8-of-15 from 3-point range in the first half and never cooled off, finishing 15-of-32, with Swartz hitting seven treys. It was the most 3-pointers allowed by a Xavier team at home since Evansville knocked down 17 in 2018.

Xavier offense struggles in Big East opener

Xavier's assist-to-field goals made ratio is one of the best in the country. That won't change as Xavier assisted on two-thirds of its field goals against Creighton. The problem was there weren't many made shots to celebrate.

Creighton, No. 87 in defensive efficiency, kept Xavier from establishing any type of rhythm. Xavier led, 10-6, in the first half. Creighton would score 43 of the next 55 points to take a 49-22 lead into the break.

Xavier shot just 30.8% from the field in the first half and were 2-of-11 from the perimeter, with both makes coming from Malik Messina-Moore.

Malik Messina-Moore connects from 3️⃣! pic.twitter.com/hT8h9UCAlO

— Xavier Basketball (@XavierMBB) December 17, 2025

Messina-Moore was one of the long bright spots for Xavier, hitting multiple 3-pointers for the first time since a loss to Iowa Nov. 14. The Montana transfer was also in double figures (14) for the first time since Xavier's second game of the season against Le Moyne.

Xavier leading scorer Tre Carroll was held in single digits (7) for the first time this season. Second-leading scorer Jovan Milicevic was scoreless, going 0-for-8. Roddie Anderson scored all 12 of his points in the second half. Pape N'Diaye was also in double figures with a season-high 10.

Xavier's offense uncharacteristically sloppy in loss to Creighton

Switching to a smaller lineup has helped Xavier's offense in many ways. Most notably, the Musketeers have five players on the court for the majority of the game who can handle the ball.

Xavier moved to No. 1 in the nation in KenPom in turnover percentage heading into Big East play. Those metrics took a beating in just one half as Xavier committed eight turnovers that led to 12 Creighton points.

Creighton entered the night 340th in the nation in turnover percentage and forced Xavier into 14 turnovers.

What's next for Xavier Musketeers basketball?

Xavier continues Big East play with its second true road game of the season on Saturday, Dec. 20 against Georgetown at Capital One Arena.

Georgetown started 5-0 but has dropped three of its last five games. The Hoyas opened Big East play against Marquette Wednesday in Milwaukee.

Xavier returns to Cintas Center after Christmas break to host No. 5 UConn on New Year's Eve.

Xavier women's basketball on 4-game winning streak

In Billi Chambers' first season as the head coach of Xavier women's basketball, the Musketeers went 1-27. Last season, they enjoyed a six-win improvement, finishing 7-24.

This fall, Xavier has already eclipsed last season's win total before the new year. Xavier wrapped up non-conference play Dec. 14 with a 63-51 win over Saint Francis.

XAVIER WINS!!!

The Musketeers close non-conference action with a win over the Red Flash!#MindOnMarch | #LetsGoXpic.twitter.com/j7cRUdIa3I

— Xavier Women's Basketball (@XavierWBB) December 14, 2025

It was the Musketeers' fourth straight victory, a run that included a Big East win over Providence and a road victory over UC in the Crosstown Shootout.

Xavier is 8-3 (1-1 Big East) heading into back-to-back conference road games against Butler (Dec. 19) and Seton Hall (Dec. 28).

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Analysis of Xavier Musketeers' Big East loss to Creighton Bluejays

Dec. 17—GRAND FORKS — Ty Vig is a UND football commit for the second time.

Vig, the younger brother of UND starting edge Kaden Vig, committed to UND in high school at Kittson County Central but changed course to play junior college basketball this fall as a true freshman at Minnesota State-Fergus Falls.

Now, he's heading back to the gridiron. Vig plans to take his physical Jan. 9 and start workouts Jan. 12 ahead of the Fighting Hawks' spring ball practices.

"Way back when I was committed here initially I was a walk-on and coming off a successful basketball season," Vig said Wednesday. "I wanted to keep the basketball thing rolling, so I went to M-State. We're having a good season, and I was playing 35 minutes and averaging 15 (points) and 11 (rebounds)."

Then earlier this week, Vig and UND head coach Eric Schmidt connected over the phone after Kaden and Schmidt had talked about the possibility of Ty joining the team during an exit interview following UND's loss to Tarleton State in the second round of the FCS Playoffs.

When Schmidt offered Ty a football scholarship, Ty jumped at the chance.

"It caught me off-guard a bit," Ty said. "I'm not going to say no to this, though. This is what I always wanted. I still love football but I wanted a scholarship in basketball. When (Schmidt) offered a scholarship, I was in right then."

Vig told his junior college coach, who Vig said understood the opportunity for his post player.

"It's an honor to go play (at UND) with Schmidt and what he's done with the team," Ty said.

Vig said he's going to start working at tight end but also learning the edge position.

"I'm really excited," Ty said. "I'm not going in in the fall. When I originally committed, I was going in during the fall and had to cram all that stuff in. Fall camp is super hard and a lot of stuff at once. Now I'm coming seven months early. I'll get in the workouts and study and learn my position."

Like his brother, Ty is 6-foot-5. Kaden went from 225 pounds to 260 pounds in one season at UND. The Hawks are likely banking on a big jump from Ty, as well.

Ty, who was a sophomore at KCC when Kaden was a senior, started the basketball season at 200 pounds and is up to 215. He's hoping to get up to 240.

Ty isn't worried about being away from football for a year.

"If you watch me play basketball, I play it like a football player," he said. "I think it'll be fine. I'll get a lot stronger."

Kaden was recently named to the all-Missouri Valley Football Conference second team. The Hallock, Minn., native had 5.5 sacks and 36 tackles. He had a 63-yard touchdown return against Northern Iowa after stripping the quarterback and picking up the fumble.

Why did Michigan fire Sherrone Moore? Latest news on Wolverines' stunning coaching change originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Michigan has fired head coach Sherrone Moore for cause, per a report.

ESPN's Pete Thamel first reported the news on Wednesday afternoon. The news comes shortly after Michigan's early signing period, as Moore was just finishing up his second season with the Wolverines.  

On Friday, Moore was charged with home invasion in the third degree, stalking, as well as breaking an entering. Moore was arrested by police on Wednesday evening. 

MORE SHERRONE MOORE NEWS:

• What to know about Sherrone Moore scandal
• Sherrone Moore charges, explained
• Sherrone Moore firing creates 4 major questions for Michigan
• Michigan's timeline of trouble since Jim Harbaugh hire

Why did Michigan fire Sherrone Moore? 

According to the school, the firing comes amid allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a UM staffer. 

Michigan announces that Sherrone Moore has been fired for cause & school found “credible evidence was found that Coach Moore engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a staff member.”

— Nicole Auerbach (@NicoleAuerbach) December 10, 2025

UM athletic director released a statement after reports came out. Manuel added that More's conduct is a clear violation of university policy, and the school has "zero tolerance" for such behavior. 

Statement from University of Michigan Athletic Director Warde Manuel:

“U-M head football coach Sherrone Moore has been terminated, with cause, effective immediately. Following a University investigation, credible evidence was found that Coach Moore engaged in an inappropriate…

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 10, 2025

On Thursday night, Michigan's president, Domenico Grasco, released a statement, saying "There is absolutely no tolerance for this conduct at the University of Michigan. None."

Letter sent from Michigan president to the university tonight. https://t.co/ELwP0hu1mgpic.twitter.com/AHPQ6LYba0

— Pete Nakos (@PeteNakos) December 11, 2025

A few days later, the University of Michigan released a YouTube video, which was Grasco updating the community. He said the next head coach will be “of the highest moral character.”

Grasso says the next Michigan football coach will be “of the highest moral character.” https://t.co/hGucvFDZ1g

— Nicole Auerbach (@NicoleAuerbach) December 17, 2025

Moore had just finished his second season as Michigan's head coach, finishing with an 18-8 record. The Wolverines lost 27-9 to Ohio State to finish 9-3 on the season. Moore has been married to his wife, Kelli Moore since 2015. The couple shares three daughters together.  

On Dec. 13, ESPN reported additional information regarding the relationship. Pete Thamel and Dan Wetzel reported that a law firm which will investigate UM's athletic department's handling of scandals looked into the relationship earlier this season. 

The school found no evidence from the anonymous tip, and both parties denied the relationship. But that changed on Monday, Dec. 8:

Both Moore and the staff member denied the relationship and not enough evidence emerged to confirm it.

That changed Wednesday when, according to prosecutors in Washtenaw County, Michigan, the staff member told investigators it did occur and presented corroborating evidence. The staff member had, on Monday, broken off the multiyear relationship, according to prosecutors, but became concerned when Moore sent a flurry of texts and calls that were unreturned.

The university promptly fired Moore on Wednesday for the relationship.

Michigan interim coach Biff Poggi spoke about fallout since Sherrone Moore's firing.

"It has been a tumultuous time," he said. "Disbelief, then anger, then really, what we're in right now is the kids, quite frankly, feel very betrayed, and we're trying to work through that." pic.twitter.com/w7Fg8n1exo

— Brad Galli (@BradGalli) December 16, 2025

Beyond his suspension earlier in the 2025 season, Moore had faced two prior penalties: a one-game ban for the 2023 season opener stemming from recruiting violations, and an outstanding one-game suspension tied to the sign-stealing investigation that was scheduled for the first game of the 2026 season.

MORE: Who is Biff Poggi? What to know about Michigan's interim head coach

Sherrone Moore 911 call

TMZ has released audio of a 911 tape, allegedly tied to Moore's arrest on Wednesday. On the tape, you can hear the dispatcher say that a woman on location was "being attacked," and that the man at the location has "been stalking her for months." 

#EXCLUSIVE 😳 TMZ Sports has obtained dispatch audio stemming from the alleged Sherrone Moore assault. https://t.co/F75acyiGiepic.twitter.com/d12cGW9DcQ

— TMZ Sports (@TMZ_Sports) December 11, 2025

TMZ released an extended clip of the audio later Wednesday, where the dispatcher is heard describing a call from "S1's wife" in Ann Arbor saying that the suspect is "suicidal for losing his job today." The dispatcher added that S1 walked out with a knife, and that a U of M detective was on the way. 

Latest Sherrone Moore arrest updates

Wednesday, Dec. 17, 7:38 p.m.: The woman's lawyer alleged that Moore had a "long history of domestic violence" against a female football staffer during their relationship.

Former Michigan football coach Sherrone Moore had a “long history of domestic violence” against a female football staffer during their relationship, the woman’s lawyer alleged. pic.twitter.com/qvsdVHz3T6

— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) December 17, 2025

Per The Athletic, "the staffer told police she ended the relationship two days before Moore’s firing, and told him she had 'nothing more to say to him.” She said that over the next two days, Moore called her “approximately a dozen times and sent her text messages."

Friday, Dec. 12. 1:38 p.m: According to Nicole Auerbach, the magistrate told Sherrone Moore that he is not to use alcohol, marijuana or any other substance that's not prescribed to him while out on bond. Moore must also wear a GPS tether, continue all mental health treatment and have no contact with the woman.

Moore's next hearing is scheduled for Jan. 22, 2026, per Auerbach.

Friday, Dec. 12. 1:34 p.m. TheWashtenaw County prosecutor said Sherrone Moore is alleged to have broken into the woman's residence, grabbed butter knives and threatened to harm himself, including telling the alleged victim she would have to watch.

Per Nicole Auerbach, the prosecutor also said that Sherrone Moore and the woman had an intimate relationship for a number of years, and the victim "broke up with the defendant on Monday morning. She presented herself to (the school) and corroborated the fact they had a relationship."

Here is video from the allegations being laid out by the prosecutor.

Allegations laid out by prosecutor against Sherrone Moore

Says Moore barged into house, grabbed multiple knives and threatened to kill himself in front of alleged victim pic.twitter.com/bDzyKBqNTj

— Trey Wallace (@TreyWallace_) December 12, 2025

Friday, Dec. 12. 12:53 p.m.: Moore has been formally charged by Washtenaw County with home invasion in the third degree, stalking as well as breaking and entering: 

NEW: Former Michigan coach Sherrone Moore has been charged with home invasion in the third degree, stalking, and breaking and entering.https://t.co/v1ggNQultchttps://t.co/M7KoRJGdNupic.twitter.com/q9QXquQTUM

— On3 (@On3sports) December 12, 2025

Friday, Dec. 12. 12:29 p.m.: Moore is set to be arraigned in Washtenaw County court at 1 p.m. ET.  

Sherrone Moore's arraignment appears set for 1 p.m., per a release: "The Court has received information a complaint will filed by the Washtenaw County Prosecutor’s office.  As soon as we have charging information that will be shared."

— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) December 12, 2025

Thursday, Dec. 11 4:03 p.m.: NBC's Nicole Auerbach reported on Thursday afternoon that Michigan was aware of Moore's mental health issues, but Warde Manuel fired him without any HR reps or security guards present.

Michigan had been alerted prior to Wednesday that Sherrone Moore was dealing with mental health issues yet Warde Manuel fired him alone with no HR rep and no security present, source told @NBCSports.

— Nicole Auerbach (@NicoleAuerbach) December 11, 2025

Hours after his firing, Moore was arrested and is currently in protective custody. 

1:34 p.m.: According to ESPN's Pete Thamel, who initially reported Moore's firing, Michigan did have an initial investigation into the head coach's alleged misconduct.

That investigation didn't yield anything, but in "very recent days," credible information emerged that was "overwhelming in nature." Per Thamel, who appeared on the Pat McAfee show on Thursday, that changed the investigation, which ultimately led to his firing: 

"My understanding is that there was an initial investigation into this and nothing credible was found..

Within the past day or two credible information emerged that was overwhelming in nature..

That changed everything and led to the decision yesterday" ~ @PeteThamel#PMSLivehttps://t.co/CkKRk9kDoopic.twitter.com/4Zd3cfyu5j

— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) December 11, 2025

12:26 p.m.: Per Adam Rittenberg of ESPN, Moore is expected to appear in court for his arraignment on Friday, Dec. 12: 

Update from Pittsfield Township police on the Sherrone Moore situation: "This investigation is ongoing and under review by the Washtenaw County Prosecutor. The suspect remains in custody at the Washtenaw County Jail and is expected to appear in court for arraignment on 12/12/25."

— Adam Rittenberg (@ESPNRittenberg) December 11, 2025

11:20 a.m.: According to ESPN's Dan Wetzel, no decision on charges stemming from Moore's arrest by police is expected on Thursday. Moore remains in custody, and is still being actively investigated by police: 

The Washtenaw County Prosecutors Office tells ESPN that no decision on charging Sherrone Moore is expected today. The former Michigan coach remains in custody.

"The matter involving Mr. Moore remains under active investigation by law-enforcement, and as a result, we do not…

— Dan Wetzel (@DanWetzel) December 11, 2025

According to Wetzel, Moore was detained by police in Saline, Mich. on Wednesday evening. 

Breaking: Ex-Michigan coach Sherrone Moore was detained by police in Saline, Mich. this evening and turned over to police in Pittsfield Township for investigation into potential charges, reporting with @PeteThamelpic.twitter.com/KTuzlmNXQ7

— Dan Wetzel (@DanWetzel) December 11, 2025

No charges have been filed at this time, and it is obviously unknown if the incident is related to his dismissal by Michigan Wednesday afternoon.

ESPN additionally reported on Wednesday evening that Moore was jailed as a "suspect in an alleged assault."

According to Tony Paul of the Detroit News, Moore remains in the Washtenaw County jail as of Wednesday evening, per court records.

Fired UM football coach Sherrone Moore is in the Washtenaw County jail tonight, per court records. https://t.co/hLhM7YewHr

— Tony Paul | Detroit News (@TonyPaul1984) December 11, 2025

Here's more from Paul's original reporting: 

Moore was detained by police Wednesday afternoon and was in custody in the Washtenaw County Jail as of 10:30 p.m. Wednesday, according to online court records. He was booked at 8:30 p.m., according to court records.

Saline police chief Marlene Radzik confirmed to The News earlier Wednesday that nearby Pittsfield Township's police department was handling a complaint involving Moore. After 10 p.m. Wednesday, Pittsfield Township police confirmed it handled an assault investigation, without naming Moore. Police said the investigation began around 4:10 p.m., minutes before UM announced Moore's firing.

In a statement to the media, Pittsfield police chief Patrick Gray stated that "the incident does not appear to be random in nature, and there appears to be no ongoing threat to the community." 

He added that an investigation is ongoing. Saline, Mich. lies about 9.5 miles south of Ann Arbor. 

MORE:Michigan's best coaching replacements for Sherrone Moore

What does 'fired for cause' mean?

Firing him for cause means the school has a legitimate reason to dismiss Moore. In this case, an inappropriate relationship with a staff member likely resulted in a breach of contract, allowing the school to terminate him without paying a buyout.

There are various clauses within a head coach's contract that subject coaches to firing for cause. Oftentimes, the coach is contractually obligated to represent the university with high standards. Michigan State fire Mel Tucker in 2023 after an investigation revealed that he sexually assaulted a Title IX advocate, Brenda Tracy, who previously spoke to the MSU football program. The Spartans had to vacate 14 wins under Tucker earlier this year.  

There is a chance that firing Moore for cause means the school would not have to pay him his buyout of $13,897,916.

Who is Michigan's interim coach?

Michigan's interim head coach is former Charlotte head coach Biff Poggi. The longtime Michigan staffer had coached under Jim Harbaugh and re-joined Moore's staff midseason.

In his first media availability since Moore's firing, Poggi said that he is working to through the players feeling "very betrayed" after the shocking week in Ann Arbor.

When Moore was suspended earlier in the 2025 season, Poggi took over for two games and led the Wolverines to a 2-0 record. Combined with his tenure at Charlotte, Poggi has an 8-16 career record as a head coach.

While Poggi will man the Wolverines for now, leading the coaching search is athletic director Warde Manuel, who remains in the position after a Michigan board member call on Thursday.

Despite contrary reports, Warde Manuel remains the Michigan athletic director as the school begins a search for its next coach, per @RossDellenger.

Michigan board members and university officials held a call earlier today that was related to the situation following Sherrone… pic.twitter.com/M730wZLXRN

— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) December 11, 2025

The Wolverines are set to take on Texas in the Citrus Bowl on Dec. 31. 

MORE MICHIGAN NEWS:

• Revisiting Michigan's sign-stealing scandal
• Jim Harbaugh's timeline of trouble at Michigan
• Explaining NCAA's Jim Harbaugh show-cause penalty

Sherrone Moore Michigan record

In two years as Michigan head coach, Moore finished with a record of 18-8. He was 16-8 in his two-year tenure as the official head coach, with two additional wins coming as acting head coach when Jim Harbaugh was suspended.

He led the Wolverines to an 8-5 record (5-4 Big Ten) in his first full season, a campaign defined by two monumental victories. Moore secured a fourth consecutive win over No. 2 Ohio State in Columbus and followed it by defeating Alabama in the ReliaQuest Bowl. Michigan also won all four of its rivalry trophy games that year.

In 2025, Michigan finished the regular season 9-3 and will face Texas in the Citrus Bowl on Dec. 31. The Wolverines’ three losses all came against ranked opponents — No. 18 Oklahoma, No. 16 USC and No. 1 Ohio State — and they managed just two total touchdowns across those games.

This is a breaking news story that will be updated. 

The San Francisco Giants have designated outfielder Joey Wiemer for assignment, the club confirmed to reporters, including Alex Pavlovic of NBC Sports Bay Area. The move was necessitated by recent roster activity, as San Francisco needed to clear a spot on its 40-man roster following the signing of reliever Jason Foley. The roster squeeze is not over yet, either, as the Giants will need to open an additional 40-man spot once their reported two-year agreement with right-handed starter Adrian Houser is officially finalized.

The Giants DFA’d outfielder Joey Wiemer to open a roster spot for Jason Foley. Wiemer had been picked up earlier in offseason.

— Alex Pavlovic (@PavlovicNBCS) December 18, 2025

Wiemer’s stint with the Giants was always likely to be brief. San Francisco acquired the 26-year-old outfielder in a DFA trade with the Miami Marlins just last month, a low-cost move designed to add depth and explore upside during the offseason. However, with multiple signings already on the books and more expected, Wiemer appeared to be a vulnerable piece on a roster facing limited flexibility.

Over the past year and a half, Wiemer has become something of a baseball nomad. Originally drafted and developed by the Milwaukee Brewers, he has since been on the move frequently, changing organizations several times in a relatively short span. After his time with Milwaukee, he was traded to the Cincinnati Reds, then moved again to the Kansas City Royals before landing with Miami via a waiver claim in August. If another club takes a chance on him in the coming days, the Giants would mark his sixth organization during that stretch.

Despite the frequent transactions, Wiemer’s physical tools continue to draw interest. Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing in at 226 pounds, he offers an enticing blend of power, speed, and defensive versatility. A right-handed hitter, Wiemer possesses legitimate raw power that can change games when he squares the ball up. He’s also a strong runner for his size and is capable of handling all three outfield spots at a competent, if not above-average, level. From a purely athletic standpoint, he checks many of the boxes teams look for in a modern outfielder.

The challenge, however, has been translating those tools into consistent production at the plate. Wiemer’s long levers and aggressive approach have resulted in significant swing-and-miss issues throughout his professional career. Strikeouts have limited his ability to reach base and fully tap into his power, making him a difficult fit for teams prioritizing contact and on-base skills.

Under the DFA process, the Giants now have five days to either trade Wiemer or place him on waivers. Notably, he has yet to clear waivers at any point in his career, suggesting that another club could claim him and add him to its own 40-man roster. If he does go unclaimed, San Francisco would have the option to outright him to the minors, keeping him in the organization as non-roster depth.

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The 2025 Copa do Brasil final between Corinthians and Vasco had a CURIOUS episode behind the scenes.

The Timão hid their photographer’s last name on social media. The reason? The professional’s name is Gustavo VASCO.

The controversy started on the eve of the match, with Vasco fans “invading” Corinthians’ X account to joke about this coincidence.

To (try to) avoid further teasing, Timão used only “Gustavo / Corinthians” in the photo credits for the pre-match photos.

The story quickly went viral, with rival fans calling for “freedom” for Gustavo Vasco and mocking the censorship of his last name.

So, what would you do if you had the name of ANOTHER Brazilian club? 😱

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

📸 Mauro Horita - 2025 Getty Images

What do amateur golfers get wrong? Well, depending on the level of amateurism, the answer, according to some of the game’s best teachers, is a lot.

While some might make etiquette mistakes, others could commit swing errors. Or maybe they don’t practice enough. Or practice the right way. Or play the course the right away. You get the picture.

Over the last few days, some of the greatest minds in golf converged at Cabot Citrus Farms in Florida, learning, networking, presenting and shooting content for GOLF Magazine and GOLF.com.

Our Claire Rogers was on-site and spent some time asking a handful of teachers one question and seeking a quick-hitting answer: What’s one thing amateur golfers need to stop doing?

Check out their answers (and the video) below. And to find a Top 100 Teacher near you, click here.

1 thing amateurs need to stop doing

“Thinking on the golf course about your swing.” - Maureen Farrell

“Jumping around from coach to coach. Find a PGA professional or a good coach in your area that’s got your best interest at heart that you can partner with in your own improvement.” - Jason Baile

“Stop moving around when other people are playing.” - Cathy Kim

“Watching YouTube videos at 2 o’clock in the morning.” - Kelan McDonagh

“Playing from tees that don’t match your playing ability.” - Stef Shaw

“Trying to be perfect.” - Zach Haynes

“Trying to do it themselves. I know it’s a DIY society but honestly, I’m among the best coaches in the world right now, find one of them, work closely with them and have market growth over time.” - Jake Thurm

The post 1 thing amateur golfers need to stop doing? We asked 7 experts appeared first on Golf.

For Kenta Maeda, it's been a long, strange trip since his days with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Now, after a rather down season with the Detroit Tigers, Maeda is going home to Japan. Earlier in the postseason, Maeda issued a statement that he was going back to Japan. Well, he's signed a two-year contract with the Rakuten Golden Eagles.

Maeda pitched nine seasons in the majors, starting with four between 2016-19 with the Dodgers. He then spent three seasons with the Minnesota Twins, and two with the Detroit Tigers.

Maeda signed a 2-year deal with the Rakuten Golden Eagles to return to Japan earlier this offseason https://t.co/TXk7siHbEopic.twitter.com/vkGFn2acc0

— SleeperTigers (@SleeperTigers) December 17, 2025

Maeda put together a 47-35 record with the Dodgers, finishing his time there with a 3.87 ERA. Maeda started 103 games for Los Angeles and also added six saves to his record, too. He also recorded 641 strikeouts while on the mound in Dodger Blue.

But his ERA soared to 4.02 ERA during his time with Minnesota. Maeda finished with an 18-14 overall mark for the Twins. He struck out 310 batters during his time with the Twins, too.

Then, his time with Detroit simply was not good. Maeda was 3-7 with a 6.21 ERA, couldn't perform well as a starter, and got demoted to the Tigers' bullpen. Last season's numbers for Maeda? Seven appearances, eight strikeouts, and a 7.88 ERA. That's not going to keep a pitcher on a team for any length of time.

That was the case for Maeda as he is now looking to rebound in a big way.

But take a look at this. In 2016, Maeda finished third in the National League Rookie of the Year voting. In 2020, he was the runner-up for the National League Cy Young Award.

Yet Maeda just has not been able to reproduce that type of success while with the Twins and Tigers. Maeda signed a two-year, $24 million contract with the Tigers, getting $14 million for 2024 and $10 million last season. 

For that type of money, the Tigers really didn't get much in return. 

Maeda will return home to Japan in the hopes of resurrecting his career. Speaking of his career, Maeda's win-loss record is 68-56 with a 4.20 ERA.  

Dodgers fans will remember what Maeda accomplished for the ballclub. Yet Maeda wants to keep pitching and, for him, going back to Japan just might be the spark he needs to fix his pitching woes.

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Welcome to The Daily Merengue — a place where you can feel free to discuss all things football. Do not be alarmed by the overt RMCF bias. It’s in the name!

Shoutout to the Mods who do a fantastic job, Valyrian Steel, Ezek XI, KungFuZizou, NeRObutBlanco, Felipejack, and Juninho.

A Collection of Letters (Prelude)

“I hope one day these words find you.” — [censored]

Writer’s Prelude. This week will simply feature letters as we discuss Real Madrid. Maybe they’ll matter and maybe they won’t. It is what it is. It’s just how I felt those days.

Dear MM,

Today’s letter will be a short live reflection of our Copa game. 

First Half. Alright so it’s currently HT after a quite frankly good if not great 1st half. Overall, the team has collectively put in a decent and hungry performance with several goal-scoring opportunities. Since the camera angle is a bit prohibitive for in-depth analysis, here are a few individual performances and things that I’ve found worthwhile:

Castilla Fullbacks. So far, I’ve liked what I’ve seen from David Jimenez, and I’d like to add that I also liked what I saw from Valdes against Alaves. Offensively, both fullbacks seem relatively comfortable on the ball and good at assessing when to break towards the channels or circle possession. Whatever Arbeloa has been teaching these Castilla kids, it seems to be in sync with our current styles of play. David is a bit on the small size which is a cause for concern aerially but thus far I’ve only counted one particular moment where he looked a bit stranded while covering a forward with Dean Huijsen (who at times seems to forget about his height). So far so good from the kids and I hope to see more. TBH both look 10x calmer than Fran.

CB Pairing. Under these circumstances, I’m willing to forgive Xabi Alonso. We have little to no healthy CBs, Asencio has a fever, and Tchouameni just needs rest, so it’s ok for now. However, Carreras needs to be stop being inserted as a CB. He quite frankly isn’t good at it. I think he’s fine in a pinch when surrounded by two other CBs so it’s a 3-CB system but his diminutive frame and reluctance to be aggressive on aerial passes / sometimes in general in the middle of the park, is a massive liability for our structure. I’d be happy to see this experiment end.

Ceballos / Arda. Quick sentence because the second half is starting. Well done. The former has been a maestro in the midfield dictating our buildup. The latter delivers some masterclass progressive passes.

Second Half.

Endrick. So Endrick imo just made the best pass of his career to which Mbappe simply waste lmao. Thank god this game is psychologically over. Now there will likely be a long debate about Endrick and how Real Madrid has handled his development. And I’m here to say that it’s been a bit poor but also understandable. Endrick arrived to our club at the same time as Kylian Mbappe…of course that’s going to raise issues. I mean additionally this year it’s been hard enough for his Brazilian compatriot Rodrygo to get off the bench so I’m not surprised by the issues here. Additionally, Endrick is truly a raw player with at times questionable decision making. Even during his goalscoring stints last year, he’d often shoot when he obviously needed to pass and yes it sometimes worked…but often his teammates looked baffled by the decisions. It’s hard enough with the team coping with Vini. Endrick on top of that could be a catastrophic mess.

I think a fair share of Madridistas are sad about him being loaned out but tbh I’m excited by this. Endrick needs to play. He needs to consistently play in an environment where he’s allowed to make mistakes. And this loan will finally give him that opportunity. Today, we often all clamor for Nico Paz. It’s Nico Paz this and Nico Paz that. I think it’s plausible to question whether Nico Paz of today would be wanted by Madrid fans if he had stayed. Nico would’ve likely been stuck on the bench (or even worse in Castilla) waiting for that one opportunity which may or may not come. We’d then base the entirety of his ability off at most 10-15 min cameos. Some of you may say that’s not true…but that’s exactly what it is. That’s what happened to Rodrygo this entire season. That’s what happens to Brahim. That’s what happens to Gonzalo Garcia. You have one absolutely random game to start with zero rhythm and at times a mix match group of players and then you get maybe a 20 min max cameo where you need to prove that you’re the second coming of R9. I’m not excusing anything or saying this is unfair…it just quite frankly is what it is. So I’m happy Endrick now has the opportunity to do exactly what Nico Paz / Odegaard / Kubo all wanted — to play.

one other thing — Mbappe. I’m happy he scored today and helped with the OG. I assume he’ll get MOTM again too (last game shouldve been Jude imo). But I really don’t understand why he’s still playing in this game at the 79 min. I’m giving Xabi the benefit of the doubt that he isn’t that dumb tbh and that this is something the club + Xabi / meds / Mbappe have agreed so that he has a good chance to break Cristiano Ronaldo’s calendar goal scoring record. Hold on one second. Talaveres just scored.

Ok — I’m back. Mbappe has score again lmao. Anyway, I’m not stressing about this game. I know a lot of you are going to be like OMG WE CONCEDED 2 GOALS. I mean yea…the team did it’s job and checked out before the 90 min. We can learn off this, I’m not particularly worried.

WELL THAT’S ALL FOLKS

Cheers,

J

According to an anecdote on the SZ podcast Un num zum Sport (as reported by Bild) Real Madrid almost signed Bayern Munich wonderkid Lennart Karl back in 2018, almost four years before he moved to the Bavarian capital.

This story comes to us from Süddeutsche Zeitung correspondent Sebastian Leisgang, who has been writing for the paper since 2017. He comes from the area near Karl’s hometown of Frammersbach in Lower Franconia and knows the family personally.

How it happened

Speaking on the podcast, Leisgang revealed how the sequence of events took place (translation courtesy of @iMiaSanMia):