A new study published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology has found that the phenomenon popularly known as “Zoom fatigue” may have largely dissipated in the post-pandemic work environment. The findings suggest that video meetings are no longer significantly more exhausting than other types of meetings for most employees. This research challenges the narrative that virtual communication is inherently draining and indicates that workers may have adapted to the demands of remote collaboration.

The rapid shift to remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a heavy reliance on video conferencing tools to maintain organizational operations. During this period, many employees reported feeling an unusual sense of exhaustion following these virtual interactions. This collective experience was quickly labeled “Zoom fatigue.” Previous empirical studies conducted during the height of the pandemic supported these anecdotal claims. They found a correlation between the frequency of video meetings and higher levels of daily fatigue among workers.

Various theories arose to explain why video calls might be uniquely taxing. Some researchers proposed that the cognitive load of video meetings was to blame. This theory posits that users must expend extra mental energy to monitor their own appearance on camera and to interpret non-verbal cues that are harder to read through a screen. Others suggested a theory of “passive fatigue.” This perspective argues that the lack of physical movement and the under-stimulation of sitting in front of a computer monitor lead to drowsiness and low energy.

However, the context of work has evolved since the early days of the pandemic. For many, video meetings are no longer a forced substitute for all human contact but rather a standard tool for business communication. The researchers behind the current study sought to determine if the exhaustion associated with video calls was a permanent feature of the technology or a temporary symptom of the pandemic era. They aimed to update the scientific understanding of virtual work by replicating a 2022 study in the current year, 2024.

“We conducted this study from both pure research curiosity, and a practical lens. As our first paper from the pandemic times (Nesher Shoshan & Werht, 2022) in which we identified that ‘Zoom fatigue’ exist got a lot of attention, we were interested to know if the results can be replicated in a different, post-pandemic setting, and with a stronger empirical approach (larger sample, another measurement point, a more sophisticated analysis),” said Hadar Nesher Shoshan, a junior professor at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz.

“Practically, we found out that our first study is being used to make organizational decisions. This is a large responsibility, that we wanted to make sure is updated and evidence based.”

To investigate this, the researchers utilized an experience sampling method. This approach allows researchers to capture data from participants in real-time as they go about their daily lives, rather than relying on retrospective surveys that can be subject to memory errors. The study was conducted in Germany in April 2024.

The research team recruited 125 participants who worked at least 20 hours per week and regularly attended video meetings. The participants represented various industries, including communication, service, and health sectors. Over a period of ten working days, these individuals completed short surveys at four specific times each day. This rigorous schedule resulted in a dataset covering 590 workdays and 945 distinct meetings.

In each survey, participants reported details about the last work meeting they had attended. They specified the medium of the meeting, such as whether it was held via video, telephone, face-to-face, or through written chat. They also rated their current levels of emotional exhaustion and “passive fatigue,” which was defined as feelings of sleepiness or lack of alertness.

The researchers also collected data on several potential moderating factors. They asked participants to rate their own level of active participation in the meeting, as well as the participation level of the group. They inquired about multitasking behaviors during the call. Additionally, they recorded objective characteristics of the meetings, such as the duration in minutes and the number of attendees.

The analysis of this extensive dataset revealed that video meetings were not related to higher levels of exhaustion compared to non-video meetings. Participants did not report feeling more drained or more drowsy after a video call than they did after a face-to-face meeting or a phone call. This finding held true even when the researchers statistically controlled for the level of exhaustion participants felt before the meeting began.

The researchers also examined whether working from home influenced these results. The analysis showed that the location of the worker did not moderate the relationship between video meetings and fatigue. This suggests that the environment of the home office is not a primary driver of the exhaustion previously associated with video calls.

“Our initial hypothesis was that zoom fatigue still existed. After all, all previous studies had come to this conclusion, so there was no reason to doubt that this result was correct,” said Nesher Shoshan. “However, we found no evidence of the phenomenon! According to our findings, online meetings are not more fatiguing than in-person meetings.”

Regarding the specific behaviors within meetings, the researchers found that active participation and multitasking did not significantly alter the fatigue levels associated with video meetings. Whether an individual spoke frequently or remained quiet did not change the likelihood of experiencing exhaustion. Similarly, checking emails or performing other tasks during the meeting did not appear to increase the mental load enough to cause significant fatigue.

The study did identify one specific factor that made a difference: the duration of the meeting. The results indicated that video meetings lasting less than 44 minutes were actually less exhausting than meetings held through other media. This suggests there is a “sweet spot” for virtual collaboration where the efficiency of the format outweighs its cognitive costs. However, once a video meeting exceeded this time frame, the advantage disappeared, and fatigue levels became comparable to other meeting types.

Another finding involved the role of boredom. The researchers observed that when participants rated a video meeting as boring, it was associated with slightly higher levels of exhaustion compared to boring meetings held in other formats. This lends some support to the idea that under-stimulation can be a negative factor in virtual environments, even if it does not lead to general “Zoom fatigue.”

The researchers propose several explanations for why their results differ from pandemic-era studies. They suggest that the “Zoom fatigue” observed in 2020 and 2021 may have been largely driven by the historical context. During the lockdowns, video meetings carried a symbolic meaning. They represented isolation, the loss of office camaraderie, and the stress of a global health crisis. In 2024, this symbolic weight has likely faded. Video calls have become a normalized part of the workday.

Additionally, it is plausible that workers have simply habituated to the format. Over the last few years, employees may have developed unconscious strategies to manage the cognitive demands of being on camera. They may be more comfortable with the technology and less self-conscious about their appearance on screen.

These findings have practical implications for organizational policy. As many companies push for return-to-office mandates, they often cite the limitations of virtual work as a justification. This study suggests that employee exhaustion is not a valid reason to discourage remote work or video meetings. Instead, the data indicates that virtual meetings can be an efficient and non-taxing way to collaborate, provided they are managed well. The results specifically point to the benefit of keeping video meetings relatively short to maximize employee well-being.

The study has some limitations that should be considered. The data relied on self-reports, which capture the participant’s subjective experience but do not provide objective physiological measurements of stress. The study also focused on the German workforce, and cultural attitudes toward work and technology could vary in other regions. Furthermore, the study design allows for the observation of correlations but cannot definitively prove that the change in time period caused the disappearance of Zoom fatigue.

Future research could benefit from incorporating objective measures of fatigue, such as heart rate variability or cortisol levels. It would also be useful to investigate the content and quality of interactions within meetings. It is possible that negative interactions, such as conflicts or misunderstandings, drive exhaustion regardless of the communication medium. Finally, researchers might explore the positive potential of video meetings, investigating how they can be designed to promote engagement and flow rather than just avoiding fatigue.

“We hope that the average person takes from our study the importance of critical thinking, not take older results as truth and always ask questions,” Nesher Shoshan told PsyPost. “For researchers, we want to emphasize the importance of transparency and replication. Finally, for organizations, we stand for flexible work arrangements and hybrid work that are shown to be effective in many other studies, and according to our study, do not come with a fatiguing price.”

The study, ““Zoom Fatigue” Revisited: Are Video Meetings Still Exhausting Post-COVID-19?,” was authored by Hadar Nesher Shoshan and Wilken Wehrt.

“Qarabağ”ın baş məşqçisi Qurban Qurbanov Azərbaycan Premyer Liqasının 15-ci turu çərçivəsində “Araz-Naxçıvan”a qarşı keçirdikləri ev oyunu haqda danışıb.

Komanda.az xəbər verir ki, o, 5:1 hesablı qələbəni belə şərh edib:

“Futbolçularımı təbrik edirəm. Vacib qabiliyyət idi. Sona yaxın boşluqlar oldu, lakin yaxşı oyun göstərdilər. Qarşımızda topla yaxşı davranan komanda var idi. Bu soyuq havada gələn, bizi dəstəkləyən azarkeşlərimizə də təşəkkür edirəm.

Bugünkü nəticələr “Sabah”la oyuna görədir. Yaxşı kollektiv formalaşdırıblar. Futbolçularıma bir az istirahət verməliyəm, komandada yorğunluq var. Qarşımızda ciddi rəqib var. “Neftçi”yə qarşı da yaxşı oynadılar. Bizi “Sabah”la çətin oyun gözləyir.

Futbolçulardan gözlədiyimi almışam, lakin daha çox gözlədiklərimdən onu ala bilməmişəm”.

Nəzrin

The post “Sabah” yaxşı kollektiv formalaşdırıb” – Qurban Qurbanov appeared first on Komanda.az.

“Araz-Naxçıvan”ın baş məşqçisi Elmar Baxşıyev Azərbaycan Premyer Liqasının 15-ci turu çərçivəsində “Qarabağ”a qarşı keçirdikləri oyun haqda danışıb.

Komanda.az xəbər verir ki, o, 1:5 hesablı məğlubiyyəti belə şərh edib:

“Bizim üçün ağır oyun alındı. Üzərində işlədiyimiz bir plan var idi. İlk qol komandaya təsir etdi. Öz səhvimizdən qol buraxdıq. Bu il üçün bir oyunumuz qalıb. Bu oyunu unudub, ona hazırlaşmaq lazımdır.

Məni bura dəvət ediblər. Üzərimə nə düşünürsə, yerinə yetirməyə çalışıram. Qərar mənim deyil”.

Nəzrin

The post “İlk qol komandaya təsir etdi” – Baxşıyev appeared first on Komanda.az.

“Tovuz Gənclər Evi” Sosial xidmətlər müəssisəsinin “Ünsiyyət” klubunun daun sindromlu və autizmli üzvləri Tovuz şəhər stadionuda qonaq olublar.

Komanda.az xəbər verir ki, uşaqlar və valideynlərlə keçirilən görüşdə “Turan Tovuz” PFK-nın İdarə Heyətinin sədri Ehtiram Quliyev xüsusi qayğıya ehtiyacı olan şəxslərin cəmiyyətə inteqrasiyasına dəstəyin klub üçün vacib istiqamətlərdən biri olduğunu və bu cür aksiyaların davamlı şəkildə həyata keçiriləcəyini vurğulayıb.

“Nəfəs” İctimai Birliyi ilə birgə həyata keçirilən layihə çərçivəsində uşaqlara hədiyyələr təqdim olunub. Daun sindromlu və autizmli uşaqlar üçün motivasiya mühiti formalaşdırmaq, onların özünəinam hissinin artırılmasına, cəmiyyətdə inklüzivlik dəyərlərinin təşviqinə dəstək göstərmək məqsədilə stadiona dəvət olunan qonaqlar “Turan Tovuz” – “Sabah” oyununu izləyiblər.

The post “Turan Tovuz”da “xüsusi görüş” – VİDEO appeared first on Komanda.az.

Azərbaycan Basketbol Liqasında 9-cu tura yekun vurulub.

Komanda.az xəbər verir ki, turun son günündə “Abşeron Lions” “Neftçi” ilə üz-üzə gəlib.

“Sərhədçi” İdman Mərkəzində baş tutan A qrupunun matçında “Abşeron Lions” qələbə qazanıb – 88:72.

Turun əvvəlki qarşılaşmalarında “Quba” “Lənkəran”ı (95:87), “Naxçıvan” “Sərhədçi”ni (90:74), “Ordu” “Sumqayıt”ı (106:86), NTD isə “Şəki”ni (93:79) məğlub edib.

The post “Neftçi” turun son oyununda məğlub oldu appeared first on Komanda.az.

“Qarabağ”ın prezidenti Tahir Gözəl komanda üzvləri ilə görüşüb.

Komanda.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə Ağdam təmsilçisinin mətbuat xidməti məlumat yayıb.

O, Premyer Liqanın 15-ci turunun “Azərsun Arena”da keçirilən “Qarabağ” – “Araz-Naxçıvan” oyunundan öncə baş məşqçi Qurban Qurbanovla və komanda üzvləri ilə görüşüb.

Klub rəhbəri komandaya dəstəyini ifadə edib və qarşılaşmada uğurlar arzulayıb.

The post Tahir Gözəl “Qarabağ”ın üzvləri ilə görüşdü appeared first on Komanda.az.

Əvəzedicilər Liqasında 14-cü tura start verilib.

Komanda.az xəbər verir ki, ilk gündə 2 oyun baş tutub.

“Sabah-2” “Zirə-2” ilə ev oyununda məğlub olub. “Sumqayıt-2” isə “Şamaxı-2” üzərində qələbəyə sevinib.

Əvəzedicilər Liqası
14-cü tur
14 dekabr

“Sabah-2” – “Zirə-2” 0:2
Qollar: Əhliman Süleymanzadə, 48. Ramiz Muradov, 82.

“Sumqayıt-2” – “Şamaxı-2” 3:2
Qollar: Əjdər Hacılı, 2; 38; 61 – Bilal İsmayılov, 36. Edqar Adilxanov, 80-pen.

The post “Sabah”ın əvəzediciləri “Zirə”yə məğlub oldu appeared first on Komanda.az.

Azərbaycan Premyer Liqasının XV turunun “Qarabağ” – “Araz=Naxçıvan” oyunundan (5:1) sonra qonaq komandanın baş məşqçisi Elmar Baxşıyev jurnalistlərin suallarını cavablandırıb.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, mütəxəssis əvvəlcə görüşlə bağlı fikirlərini bölüşüb…

– Bizim üçün ağır oyun alındı. Həftə ərzində düşündüyümüz plan var idi ki, onun üzərində işləyirdik. 20-25 dəqiqə istədiyimizi meydanda görməyə çalışırdıq. Birinci qol komandaya təsir etdi. Qol epizodu da deyildi, öz səhvimizdən qol buraxdıq. Oyunu ümumi götürəndə, 2 penalti təyin edildi qapımıza, öz səhvlərimizdən sonra böyük hesablı nəticə oldu. Bir oyunumuz qalıb. “Qarabağ” matçını unudub, o oyuna hazırlaşacağıq.

– Mətbuatda qışda rəhbərliyin sizinlə yollarını ayıracağı tirajlanır. Hər halda, futbolçular da bunu oxuyur. Sizcə, olmazdı ki, rəhbərlik açıqlama versin və göstərsin ki, baş məşqçinin arxasındadır?
– Bura özüm gəlməmişəm, dəvət ediblər. Üzərimə nə düşürsə, onu yerinə yetirməyə çalışıram. Haqqımda nə yazırlarsa, futbolçulara da təsir edir, bizə də təsirsiz ötüşmür. Qərar mənim deyil. Bizlə davam etsələr, işimizə davam edəcəyik. Digər qərarı versələr, ona da normal yanşacağıq.

Azərbaycan milli komandasının baş məşqçisi Ayxan Abbasov Ağsuda səfərdə olub.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, o, Ağsu şəhər stadionunda fəaliyyət göstərən “Hilal Ağsu” uşaq futbol məktəbini ziyarət edib. Yeniyetmələrlə görüşən millimizin baş məşqçisi onlarla səmimi söhbətlər aparıb, gələcək karyeralarında uğurlar arzulayıb

Ayxan Abbasov yeniyetmələri futbola olan sevgilərini qorumağa və daim çalışqan olmağa səsləyib. Görüşün sonunda uşaqlar millimizin baş məşqçisi ilə xatirə şəkilləri çəkdirib, ondan avtoqraf alıblar. Ayxan Abbasov yeniyetmələrə futbol topları və digər əşyalar hədiyyə edib.

Nitin Kumar created history by becoming the first Indian to win a match at the PDC Darts World Championship with a sensational victory over Dutchman Richard Veenstra.

The 40-year-old had lost in all four of his previous first-round encounters at the Alexandra Palace, but his 3-2 win puts him in the last 64 of the competition.

Kumar's scoring was inferior to that of Veenstra's, but it was his finishing that proved crucial, boasting a 75% checkout success and hitting all his last seven doubles.

"I don't know what to say right now. I'm overwhelmed, I'm happy," said Kumar, who is nicknamed 'The Royal Bengal'.

"If you dream it, anything is possible. I've dreamed of this ever since I saw Dennis Priestley win the World Championship (in 1994)."

Kumar could next play fourth seed Stephen Bunting, who faces Sebastian Bialecki in Sunday's evening session.

Veenstra hit five 100-plus finishes, with his highest coming at 144. Kumar was not as flamboyant with his scoring, but proved to be incredibly consistent as the Alexandra Palace crowd roared him on.

Three-time BDO world champion Glen Durrant said on Sky Sports: "It was one of the greatest games I have ever commentated on.

"It's not just the quality of the match, it's the impact for Nitin Kumar and what it does for Indian darts."

Earlier world number 27 Ritchie Edhouse was knocked out by debutant Jonny Tata.

Former European champion Edhouse was stunned in a 3-0 defeat by the New Zealander, to taste defeat at this stage for the fourth time in a row.

Another debutant, Englishman Dom Taylor, progressed to the second round with a 3-0 win over Sweden's Oskar Lukasiak, with the Englishman hitting a brilliant 114 checkout.

• World Darts Championship 2026 schedule and results
• World Darts Championship - Draw, seeds, prize money

Sunday's results

Afternoon session

Ritchie Edhouse (27) 0-3 Jonny Tata

Dom Taylor 3-0 Oskar Lukasiak

Richard Veenstra 2-3 Nitin Kumar

Joe Cullen v Bradley Brooks

A brace from Erling Haaland and fine strike from Phil Foden helped inspire City to a crucial 3-0 win at Crystal Palace – and back to within two points of Premier League leaders Arsenal.

In what proved a tough and demanding test at Selhurst Park, a towering 41st minute header from Haaland had broken the first half deadlock.

Palace proved dangerous opponents and twice hit the City woodwork through Yeremy Pino and Adam Wharton.

But Pep Guardiola’s side were not to be denied and a brilliant 69th minute strike from Foden stretched the advantage.

An 88th minute Haaland penalty - awarded after substitute Savinho had been brought down - then sealed the deal.

It was our fourth straight league win and put us back within touching distance of the leaders with the title race really ramping up.

The game in 250 words

With City pitted against a talented and well drilled Palace side, a cagey, tactical contest took time to really ignite.

It was Palace who created the game’s first real opening on 16 minutes with City relieved to see a Yeremy Pino shot hit the top of the bar.

MIDDLE MARCH: Tijjani Reijnders in the thick of things at Selhurst Park.

After evading the offside trap, the Spaniard latched onto the dangerous Adam Wharton’s inviting through ball and from 16 yards his shot beat Gianluigi Donnarumma but clipped the top of the bar.

City sought to summon up a response and Palace keeper Dean Henderson needed to be alert on the half hour to keep out a 25-yard Phil Foden free-kick after Nico had been blocked on the edge of the box.

And out of nowhere, City broke the deadlock on 41 minutes through, who else, Erling Haaland.

For the first time, the Blues were able to deliver an inviting ball into the heart of the box thanks to Matheus Nunes.

Haaland evaded the attention of Chris Richards and the Norwegian rose superbly to head home his 22nd goal of the season for City in all competitions

RISE AND SHINE: Erling Haaland rises to make the breakthrough.

At the other end Donnarumma was again alert to twice deny Jean-Phillipe Mateta as Palace looked to respond.

City were then grateful to intervention of the woodwork once again four minutes after the restart, a low Wharton drive clipping the foot of the right post – much to Donnarumma’s relief.

However, City looked a real threat ourselves going forward and only a smart save from Dean Henderson stopped Tijjani Reijnders from extending our advantage on 57 minutes after a lightning break from Pep Guardiola’s men.

But City were not to be denied and Foden thenstruck on 69 minutes to double our advantage.

The England star maintained his brilliant form by latching onto a fine pass from Rayan Cherki before beating Henderson’s despairing dive to drill home his 10th goal of the season.

City still needed to be alert as Palace sought to conjure up a late revival.

But victory was then sealed two minutes from time when Haaland converted his second and City’s third from the penalty spot.

The Norwegian struck again after substitute Savinho had been brought down by Henderson after breaking clear to set the seal on a superb afternoon’s work.

CELEBRATION TIME: Erling Haaland is mobbed after his first half header.

Teams

CRYSTAL PALACE: Henderson, Clyne, Richards, Lacroix, Guehi (C), Mitchell, Wharton, Kamada (Hughes 66), Sarr, Pino, Mateta (Nketiah 63)

Subs: Benitez, Lerma, Uche, Esse, Canvot, Sosa, Devenny

CITY XI: Donnarumma, Nunes, Dias, Gvardiol, O’Reilly (Ait-Nouri 89), Nico, Reijnders (Savinho 85), Bernardo (C) (Lewis 89), Foden, Cherki, Haaland (Marmoush 89)

Subs: Trafford, Ake, Khusanov, Bobb, Mukasa

Star player

There were several compelling candidates but, not for the first time this season, Josko Gvardiol really caught the eye.

On what was a testing afternoon in south east London, the Croatian defender showed all of his class and composure.

He even shrugged off the effects of taking an elbow to the face early on to also demonstrate his bravery.

STOP START: Josko Gvardiol in control for City.

Crystal clear

Today’s victory helped further extend what has become a superb record for City at Selhurst Park.

We are now unbeaten there in the past 11 Premier League games – a remarkable record given how tough a venue the Eagles’ lair is to play at.

City to the four

That’s now four straight wins in league for the Blues who are really building up a head of steam you feel.

And coming on the back of last Wednesday’s win at Real Madrid it was even more of a statement.

Given Pep Guardiola’s side traditionally only get into top gear once we enter the second half of the season, our current form and record really feels encouraging as we close in on the halfway mark of the season.

THE BOSS: Pep Guardiola watches over proceedings.

Pep’s reaction

To follow

Player reaction

To follow

GET IN: The celebrations start after Phil Foden's strike.

What it means

A fourth successive Premier League victory means City remain in second place in the table and move back up to within two points of leaders Arsenal.

We have now played 16 games and have accrued 34 points. The Gunners have 36 from their opening 16 matches.

View full table

What’s next

City are back in action on Wednesday, December 17, when we play host to Brentford in the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup.

Kick-off at the Etihad is slated for 19.30 (UK)

Browns vs. Bears weather updates: Chicago's frigid forecast for Week 15 could join NFL's coldest games list originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

When the Chicago Bears host the Cleveland Browns on Sunday afternoon, it will be considered the coldest game of the regular season.

So far, this Chicago winter has been particularly rough, which has involved both snow and cold temperatures. While snow is not as likely this weekend, the temperatures could be on the extreme end at Soldier Field, forcing teams to adjust to the conditions.

As two of the premier midwest teams in the NFL, both the Bears and the Browns have had their fair share of cold-weather games, so each side should be prepared for the contest. Still, no matter how much the teams prepare for the conditions, players will still have to find a way to get comfortable during the game.

Here's the latest on the weather in Chicago this weekend.

MORE: Remembering the 10 coldest games in NFL history

Browns vs. Bears weather updates

All times ET.

11:02 a.m. -- Kickoff is about two hours away. Currently, according to AccuWeather, it is 7 degrees at Soldier Field with a RealFeel of -6. Kickoff at 1 p.m. ET is projected to be mostly sunny and 10 degrees, with a RealFeel of 0 and 10 mph winds. 

MORE WEEK 15 NFL:

• NFL power rankings for Week 15
• NFL Week 15 picks, predictions
• NFL Week 15 picks against the spread

Chicago forecast for Browns vs. Bears

• High temperature: 14 degrees
• Low temperature: 5 degrees
• Chance of precipitation: 4 percent

According to The Weather Channel, the forecast for Sunday call for freezing temperatures, which includes the strong possibility that it reaches single-digits. However, it is unlikely that there is precipitation during the game, which means snow shouldn't be much of a factor.

Therefore, teams will have to focus mainly on dealing with the frigid temperatures instead of also navigating snow or sleet of any kind.

MORE: Meet Shedeur Sanders' entire family including his mom and brothers

How cold is it in Chicago?

The temperatures in Chicago on Sunday are expected to be in the low teens, high-singled digits, with the forecast calling for a high of 14 degrees.

Coldest games NFL history

The coldest game in NFL history remains "The Ice Bowl," which took place in Lambeau Field between the Green Bay Packers and Dallas Cowboys. In recent years, there were two games that hit the coldest games list, including a Wild-Card game between the Kansas City Chiefs and Miami Dolphins a few years ago.

From Dodger killer turned Dodger, the 2021 NLCS MVP Eddie Rosario appeared in just two games with the Dodgers at the big league level in April before bouncing around between the Atlanta Braves and Milwaukee Brewers minor league systems.

Rosario was coming off a disappointing 2024 season where he spent time between the Washington Nationals and Braves, posting a .175/.215/.316 slash line across 91 games before spending his final two weeks of play with the Triple-A Syracuse Mets.

Rosario nearly waited the entire offseason to find a new home, signing a minor league deal with the Dodgers just four days before their cactus league opener on Feb. 20. He was the first player in 2025 cactus league play to score a run, doing so via a two-run home run in his very first at-bat of the spring. He finished spring training with a pair of home runs and five driven in, although he posted an uninspiring .154/.241/.423 slash line over 29 plate appearances, and started the regular season with the Triple-A Oklahoma City Comets.

With the Comets, Rosario got off to an electric start over his first 14 games by slashing .339/.406/.542 with two home runs and 12 RBI. As Shohei Ohtani was placed on the paternity list as he awaited the birth of his daughter, Rosario was briefly called up while the Dodgers were in Arlington to take on the Rangers. He had a hit in four at-bats over just two games before being designated for assignment on Apr. 20 with Ohtani making his return. He was released by the Dodgers five days later before once again returning to the Braves for his third stint with them.

Rosario went hitless in only four at-bats with Atlanta across three games and was designated for assignment on May 9. After being outrighted to Triple-A Gwinnett, he elected free agency, only to be signed to a minor league deal by the Milwaukee Brewers on May 15. He appeared in 20 games with the Triple-A Nashville Sounds, slashing .290/.373/.449 with two home runs and 11 RBI, but was released by Milwaukee on June 15 and has not appeared in affiliated ball since.

2025 particulars

Age: 33

Stats with Dodgers: 1-4, .250/.250/.250, 0 RBI, 2 games

Salary: unknown

Game of the year

Out of the two games Rosario played with the Dodgers, the better half came on April 19 against the Texas Rangers where he went 1-2, recording his lone hit in a Dodgers uniform.

Roster status

Eddie Rosario is a free agent.

Crystal Palace suffered a 3-0 defeat to Manchester City in the Premier League at Selhurst Park on Sunday afternoon.

Palace started the game brightly and were the better side in the first half, but were not clinical in front of goal.

Palace should have opened the scoring in the 17th minute when Adam Wharton put Yeremy Pino through on goal, but the Spaniard smashed his effort against the crossbar.

Palace came close to getting the breakthrough as Daichi Kamada picked out Ismaila Sarr, whose flashed cross into the area evaded Jean-Philippe Mateta.

On the half-hour mark, Pino was presented with another chance to give the Eagles the lead, receiving a pass from Sarr, only to fire a tame effort at Gianluigi Donnarumma.

Palace were made to rue their missed chances as City scored with their first chance in the 41st minute.

Matheus Nunes whipped a cross into the area, which was met by Erling Haaland’s towering header, giving City the lead before the break.

Four minutes after the restart, Palace almost drew level through Wharton, whose low strike beat Donnarumma and hit the woodwork.

Palace had Henderson to thank as the English goalkeeper made a brilliant save to deny Tijjani Reijnders from doubling City’s lead.

At the other end, Wharton missed another chance to restore parity for the hosts, firing over the bar after combining with Pino.

City made it 2-0 in the 69th minute with Rayan Cherki driving past his markers before slipping the ball to Phil Foden, who picked out the bottom corner from outside the box.

A minute from time, Haaland completed the scoring from the penalty spot, sending Henderson the wrong way.

With the victory, City reduce Arsenal’s lead at the top of the standings to two points, while Palace fall to fifth.

Updated 2026 NFL Draft order: Giants, Raiders on pace to claim top selections entering Week 15 originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

There are only four weeks left in the regular season, and as each week passes, the 2026 NFL draft order becomes clearer and clearer. We are used to seeing a competition for the top three picks at this time of year, but this season it feels like there are way more teams that have a chance at the No. 1 spot. 

Heading into Week 15, there are eight teams with three wins or fewer. While no NFL team will ever say they are playing for draft-pick positioning, we have seen in recent years that a late-season win can drop a team from the No. 1 overall pick and the most control in the draft to the No. 4 pick.

Even with teams only having four games left, the draft picture can change drastically depending on how the games go and how the tiebreakers shape out. For now, the New York Giants, Las Vegas Raiders and Tennessee Titans all sit at 2-11 and are sitting with the top choices for next year's draft. 

So, what does the 2026 NFL draft order look like heading into Sunday of Week 15? The Sporting News has the details. 

MORE WEEK 15 NFL:

• NFL power rankings for Week 15
• NFL Week 15 picks, predictions
• NFL Week 15 picks against the spread

NFL Draft order 2026

MORE: Updated AFC, NFC playoff standings heading into Week 15

Top 2026 NFL Draft prospects

Here's a look at the top 10 prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft, based on both The Sporting News' latest mock draft and NFL Mock Draft Database's consensus big board:

Even in an odd year for quarterbacks, with many of the projected top prospects struggling, a handful of potential first-round picks still remain. Indiana's Fernando Mendoza has played himself into the No. 1 pick conversation, fueled by his Heisman-winning season. Alabama's Ty Simpson and Oregon's Dante Moore are also in the mix near the top of the first round.

Defenders are also rising up the board. Miami EDGE Rueben Bain Jr. and Ohio State LB Arvell Reese each have cases to be the top overall players in the draft, while Reese's teammate Caleb Downs has long been projected as a likely top-10 pick. 

While 2026 may not feature a true blue-chip wide receiver prospect, Arizona State WR Jordyn Tyson remains a highly-rated player despite battling nagging injuries in 2025. He is still projected to be the first wide receiver drafted come April. 

The San Francisco 49ers will look to extend their three-game winning streak on Sunday when they host the 2-11 Tennessee Titans at Levi’s Stadium. Kickoff is slated for 1:25 p.m.

The 49ers are right in the wildcard mix in the NFC, currently listed as the No. 6 seed in the standings with four games to go. They’re also just a half-game back of the Los Angeles Rams, who currently lead the NFC West and hold the No. 1 seed in the NFC.

Following Sunday’s game, the 49ers face three straight playoff contenders with the Indianapolis Colts, Chicago Bears, and Seattle Seahawks. So, Sunday is a must-win for the 49ers.

Here are three keys to a Niners victory over the Titans in Week 15.

Find a way to get pressure

Sunday will be an interesting battle at the line of scrimmage between the 49ers defense and the Titans offense.

San Francisco ranks last in the NFL in sack percentage and has struggled to get pressure since losing Nick Bosa early in the season. They’ll face a Titans offensive line that has allowed 49 sacks to Cam Ward this season.

Robert Saleh will likely look to change things up from pre-snap to post-snap in an effort to slow down Cam Ward’s clock and get more pressure in the pocket.

But, if Ward is kept clean, it could lead to a tougher challenge in the secondary.

3rd downs

A big part of San Francisco’s success has been converting on third downs this season. The 49ers are second in the NFL, converting at a 48.2 percent rate on third downs so far this year. In their last three games, that’s been above 53 percent.

Tennessee, on the other hand, has been the league’s worst team at converting third downs, getting them at a putrid 29.9 percent this season.

Defensively, both teams are right in the middle of the pack when it comes to allowing third-down conversions. Obviously, a big part of the situation is what happens on early downs, but the 49ers should have an advantage if they can continue their success on third down conversions.

Turnovers

When it comes to a game like Sunday’s, it’s evident the 49ers should win. So, you have to think of the factors why this game could be closer than anticipated.

Turnovers come to the top of the list there. Brock Purdy has thrown multiple interceptions in three of his five starts this season. He had arguably his best game of the season before the bye in the 49ers 26-8 win over the Cleveland Browns.

But, if the Titans are able to force some early takeaways, that could make Sunday a lot more interesting than it should be.

Both teams are at the bottom of the NFL when it comes to creating turnovers. The 49ers are 20th, getting 1.1 takeaways a game, while the Titans are 25th with fewer than one takeaway a game.

San Francisco does give up 1.4 turnovers a game, though, and that number has surprisingly been much higher at home (2.2 turnovers a game, 31st in NFL).

The 49ers don’t need to be spectacular on Sunday. They just shouldn’t turn the ball over.

In an interview with Téléfoot, Bayern Munich defender Dayot Upamecano (27) was asked about the prospect of teaming up with Ousmane Dembélé at Paris Saint-Germain. The speculation around the 27-year-old’s future has been increasing with his contract at the Bundesliga champions set to expire at the end of the season. 

With Upamecano potentially leaving the Bavarian outfit on a free transfer, there are several clubs reportedly interested in his services. PSG and Real Madrid have both been linked with a potential move for the France international defender. Despite the interest, talks over a new contract are ongoing. 

Upamecano to team up with Dembélé?

The former RB Leipzig centre-back and the Ballon d’Or winner are childhood friends. When asked about the possibility of playing with his international teammate at the club level, the defender said, “Why not? Yes.” It remains to be seen where the Frenchman will be playing his football next season, but with him refusing to rule out playing with the PSG attacker, links to the Ligue 1 champions will continue. 

GFFN | Liam Wraith

It’s easy to focus on the negatives following Ohio State’s 13-10 loss to Indiana in the Big Ten Championship Game. Even with the setback, the Buckeyes still posted a 12-1 record so far this season and are the two seed in the College Football Playoff. Ohio State is a top contender to win the national championship and win back-to-back titles. The loss to the Hoosiers could be exactly what the doctor ordered since it wakes the Buckeyes up ahead of the playoff after a regular season that wasn’t the most challenging.

Heading into the playoffs this year, there is a markedly different feel than last year, despite the Buckeyes entering the playoffs both years coming off a loss. While last year there was an incredible amount of negativity surrounding Ohio State, this year hasn’t seen Buckeye Nation nearly as divided as last season. So what are the reasons for the optimism? There are five key points that should have Ohio State fans confident that Ryan Day and company can win their second straight national title.

1) While different, still similar

Last year, the final game for the Buckeyes prior to the College Football Playoff was a 13-10 loss to Michigan. In this year’s final game for the Buckeyes prior to the College Football Playoff was a 13-10 loss to Indiana. Even though any loss is difficult to stomach, last year’s loss hurt infinitely more. The Wolverines were 5-6 headed into the game in Columbus last season, while both Indiana and Ohio State were 12-0 prior to the Big Ten Championship Game. In reality, the loss to the Hoosiers didn’t mean much aside from Ohio State not being Big Ten champs. The Buckeyes still were awarded a first-round bye and only dropped one spot in the rankings.

We all saw how Ohio State played in the playoff after the loss to Michigan. The Buckeyes took a deep look at themselves in between the Michigan game and the Tennessee game, and it showed on the field as Ohio State came out like a house of fire in the first quarter against the Volunteers. Even though there isn’t as much vitriol from the fan base after this year’s loss to the Hoosiers, the Buckeyes have to feel like they have a lot to prove. Ryan Day wants his team to be the best in the country, and right now, they can’t claim that since they were beaten in the Big Ten title game.

Expect Ryan Day to have his team focused when it comes time to play Miami or Texas A&M. The setback against Indiana has woken the Buckeyes up after they coasted through their regular-season schedule. Anyone who matches up with Ohio State the rest of the way had better be on notice, since they are going to get the very best version of the Buckeyes.

2) The Silver Bullets are still elite

The Ohio State defense wasn’t the problem in the loss to Indiana. The Buckeyes only gave up 13 points to one of the top offenses in the country and the quarterback who won the Heisman Trophy. If the Hoosiers can only score 13 points on the Ohio State defense, what are the hopes for the other teams in the playoff?

It starts in the trenches with Caden Curry, Kayden McDonald, and Kenyatta Jackson Jr. The trio of Ohio State defensive linemen has terrorized quarterbacks throughout the season, which is bad news for Carson Beck or Marcel Reed. Past the defensive line, Sonny Styles, Arvell Reese, and Caleb Downs will want to close out their Buckeye careers on a high note. With Matt Patricia putting together game plans, it’s hard to see any team reaching 17 points on this defense, which is a mark none of the first 13 opponents for Ohio State have been able to achieve.

3) The bear has been poked

On Friday, it was announced USC’s Makai Lemon would be the recipient of this year’s Biletnikoff Award as the nation’s top receiver. Lemon winning the award is puzzling, considering the week before, he wasn’t even recognized as the top wide receiver in the Big Ten, an honor that went to Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith. Apparently, somehow Lemon wasn’t even the best receiver in his own conference a week prior, but now we are supposed to believe he is the best wide receiver in the country?

Any team that plays Ohio State the rest of the year should be even more worried about Jeremiah Smith than they already were. The sophomore receiver will have even more motivation to prove to everyone that he is the best in the country. Smith came up huge for the Buckeyes throughout their playoff run last year, and even bigger things could be in store for him this year, as not only does he want to win back-to-back national championships, he also wants to make the Biletnikoff voters know they made the wrong decision.

4) Time to evaluate what’s not working

The Buckeyes will have over three weeks to get ready for the Cotton Bowl. Offensively, there have been some frustrations over the past two games when it comes to short-yardage situations in the red zone. One particular thing that has been eating at Buckeye Nation is why Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate are being taken off the field near the end zone so much. Putting your two best offensive players on the sidelines when you are so close to scoring makes absolutely no sense. No offense to Bennett Christian, but he should not be an option ahead of Smith or Tate.

Maybe with Brian Hartline getting ready to head to South Florida after Ohio State’s season is over, Keenan Bailey is given more responsibility in putting together an offensive game plan in the remaining games this season for the Buckeyes. At least Ohio State’s offense has multiple weeks to get comfortable with any changes they make going forward. Scoring just 10 points against the Hoosiers last time out will certainly make the offense hungry to put it on anyone that is put in front of them the rest of the way.

5) The path isn’t difficult

Last year, the Buckeyes had to go through Tennessee, Oregon, Texas, and Notre Dame to win it all. Compared to that gauntlet, this year doesn’t seem too bad. Ohio State will open up with either Miami or Texas A&M on New Year’s Eve in the Cotton Bowl. While some people are concerned about the Buckeyes possibly playing the Aggies in Dallas, it can’t be any worse than playing the Longhorns in last season’s Cotton Bowl. Plus, no matter who Ohio State does play in Dallas, the Buckeyes will be playing in the Cotton Bowl for the third straight season, so they are familiar with the venue and the schedule.

The most likely opponent for the Buckeyes following the Cotton Bowl is Georgia at the Fiesta Bowl. This isn’t quite the same Georgia team that Ohio State played a few years ago. Not only will the Bulldogs not be playing in their own backyard, but Gunner Stockton and the Georgia offense will have a tough time generating much of anything against the Ohio State defense. The Buckeyes will definitely be a favorite if these teams end up squaring off in Arizona.

The title game is going to provide the biggest challenge since it likely will come down to either Indiana, Texas Tech, or Oregon. Sorry, Alabama or Oklahoma, but you aren’t getting by the Hoosiers in Pasadena. Last year, the Buckeyes avenged their loss to Oregon in the CFP, and this year, they have a chance to possibly do the same to Indiana. It would be fitting if Ohio State and Indiana met in the title game since they were the last two undefeated teams left in the country, and their first meeting was so close. Even though the Hoosiers won the first game, it would be tough to bet against the Buckeyes in the rematch.

The Chicago Bears (9-4) being one of the best teams in the NFL is debatable. However, at 9-4, being one of the most successful through this point is not debatable. They have beaten all of the bad teams that they've played, but they also have some really nice wins over good teams as well. That includes the defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles in their house.

This week, the Bears take on the Cleveland Browns (3-10) in a game that will have tremendous implications. Chicago is having a good year, but nothing is set in stone for them as they attempt to make the playoffs. Cleveland, although 3-10, can't be taken lightly. They have a borderline elite defense, they play hard, and they are in every game. Their offense keeps them from winning more right now, but you never know what Shedeur Sanders will do for them as he gets more time under center.

If the Bears are going to be ready, they need everybody to contribute. These five players must stand out in a big way if they are going to win:

Caleb Williams

This is a must-win game for Chicago, and Caleb Williams must step up. He wasn't very good against the Packers in the first half, but he turned it on in the second half. Green Bay forced Williams to throw more by stacking the box, which may have shown the league how to beat the Bears. Seeing how Williams responds to that level of adversity is making him a must-watch player on Chicago more than usual. If he comes in, establishes the running game, and makes his throws at a higher clip, the Bears will have a great chance to win.

Ozzy Trapillo

Ozzy Trapillo is going to have Myles Garrett lining up opposite him in this one. Garrett, who's three sacks shy of the NFL single-season sack record, is one of the best players in the NFL at his position, which makes Trapillo's job that much more important. Having a great left tackle is a must in the NFL, but a player like Garrett magnifies that need. Trapillo may split the reps with Theo Benedet, who will have eyes on him as well due to the matchup. If the Bears somehow see these guys play well, Caleb Williams will be kept much cleaner, which will make winning the game easier.

Joe Thuney

Joe Thuney, a solid veteran left guard, is also going to be there to help whoever is in at left tackle handle Myles Garrett. Thuney, who has been to multiple Pro Bowls and Super Bowls, knows what it takes to be impactful against the best. Double-teaming Garrett and taking on other work on that side of the offensive line is going to be expected of him, and the tools are there for him to do his job well.

Montez Sweat

There are a lot of missing players on the offensive line of the Browns. This is Montez Sweat's (and the rest of the defensive line) chance to be an impactful player. The Bears offense is going to have no walk in the park, taking on Myles Garrett and company. Due to this, their defense is going to need to be on top of its game. A couple of sacks and lots of pressure on Shedeur Sanders would go a long way. Sweat has mostly been a disappointment since the Bears made the big trade to get him. However, a big play here and there to end the season will soften the blow of his production lacking.

Jaylon Johnson

Jaylon Johnson, since coming back from injury, has not made the impact that is expected of him when he's fully healthy. Johnson gets somewhat of a pass because he is working his way back to productivity, but this is his chance to finally have a huge impact. Shedeur Sanders can't get comfortable throwing the football. Whether the pass rush finally shows up or not, the defensive backs have the assignment of making throwing the ball difficult for Sanders. This defense as a whole leads the NFL in takeaways, and Johnson would love to become the next impactor in this regard. When healthy, Johnson is one of the best defensive backs in the NFL. He can shut down half a field, use his hands to make plays, and intimidate quarterbacks into mistakes with his ability to create turnovers and defend. Keep an eye on him in this one against the Browns, as his impact could be felt in a big way. If Johnson shuts down half the field, allowing others to make plays on defense, he is doing his job very well.

This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: Bears vs. Browns: 5 players to watch for Chicago

AMES — Iowa State basketball is back in action for a Sunday, Dec. 14 men's matinee against visiting Eastern Illinois.

The Cyclones are set to host the Panthers at Hilton Coliseum for a 12 p.m. CT tip-off. The game is available on ESPN+.

No. 4 Iowa State (10-0) is coming off a 66-62 win over Iowa in the annual Cy-Hawk game. Eastern Illinois (2-7) enters with a four-game losing streak, which includes a 68-59 loss to Eastern Kentucky in its most recent outing on Dec. 10.

Refresh this page often for live updates and highlights from Iowa State vs. Eastern Illinois.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Iowa State vs Eastern Illinois score, live updates for basketball

This week, the Pittsburgh Steelers have the opportunity to sit back, watch the rest of the NFL Week 15 slate play out before they square off with the Miami Dolphins. Right now, the Steelers are on top in the AFC North, and frankly, their best shot to even make the playoffs is to win the division and not try to sneak in as a wild-card team. With that being said, here are the three games the Steelers should watch this Sunday.

Baltimore Ravens vs Cincinnati Bengals

This is the game of the day for the Steelers. After Pittsburgh beat Baltimore last week, they took a full game lead over the Ravens in the division. If the Bengals can pull off the home upset it would extend the Steelers lead and give them a little cushion going forward.

Arizona Cardinals vs Houston Texans

The Texans currently hold the No. 7 seed in the AFC and the final spot in the playoffs. At 8-5, they are the one team who could drop off if they struggle and a loss at home against the Cardinals would be a great start for the Steelers if they have to try and get in as a wild card.

Indianapolis Colts vs Seattle Seahawks

The Colts season is in jeopardy after a rash of injuries at quarterback. This week, they are trotting out 44-year-old Philip Rivers, who hasn't played football since 2020. This bodes well for the Seahawks and, in turn, the Steelers, who need to see some of these bubble teams drop some games to give the Steelers more opportunities.

This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: 3 games for the Steelers to watch in Week 15

Welcome to Saints Gameday!

Today:

Carolina Panthers (7-6) at New Orleans Saints (3-10)

The Saints face the Panthers at home in the Caesars Superdome today in Week 15. The season hasn’t been what we hoped for, but a win at home over a division rival will certainly make things brighter for Saints fans.

Here are your links to follow all of today’s Saints Week 15 action:

Game time:

Sunday, December 14th – 1:25pm PST / 3:25pm CST / 4:25pm EST

Location:

Caesars Superdome – New Orleans, Louisiana

Weather Forecast:

Perfect conditions under the dome

TV Broadcasts:

NFL on FOX

– Jason Benetti, Robert Griffin III

Local broadcasts in your region can be found here

YouTube TV NFL Sunday Ticket:

tv.youtube.com

Radio:

WWL 870AM/105.3FM New Orleans

-Featuring: Mike Hoss, Deuce McAllister, and Steve Geller

SIRIUS XM 227 / Internet 822

New Orleans Saints radio network affiliates can be found here

Carolina Panthers radio network affiliates can be found here

Uniform Combination:

Black Jerseys and Black Pants

Opponent Blog:

Cat Scratch Reader

Odds:

Saints +2.5; Over/Under 40.5

Join us an hour before game time to hang out and discuss the games with your fellow CSC members. Remember to follow the community guidelines, which can be found here.

Most other weeks, Carolina’s ho-hum performance against USC Upstate might raise a few questions, but I think fans should give them a pass on this one. 

Take it from someone who was in that situation not toolong ago, exam week games are often a bit of a slog. No matter how good of a student or test taker you are, the days leading up to the game are mentally draining enough that you won’t be as sharp as usual on the court (to be transparent, my experience only goes as far as high school basketball, but I can’t imagine it’s much different for a college player).

Much to their credit, there were some Tar Heels who were able to fight through the brain fog and look like their normal selves–none more than Caleb Wilson. The freshman sensation delivered his seventh double-double of the season (the most of any ACC player) with 20 points and 11 rebounds, both game highs. He also recorded three assists and, as our own Brandon Anderson pointed out, did a great job passing out of double teams. That’s going to be a crucial part of his game as the season continues and more teams try to figure out how to contain him.

I’ll give an honorable mention to Jonathan Powell, who had easily his best game in a Carolina jersey. The West Virginia transfer matched his career high with 17 points, including a 3-of-6 outing from three-point range, and had two steals. It’s another encouraging sign for UNC’s bench, which will hopefully gain depth soon as Seth Trimble returns.

Enzo Maresca has an internal issue at Chelsea and is expected to clarify his comments before Tuesday’s game against Cardiff according to Ben Jacobs.

In explosive comments in his post-match press conference after Saturday’s 2-0 win against Everton, Maresca stated the last 48 hours had been his worst at the club.

Quite who or what he was referring to remains unclear, but it’s clear the Italian has been irked by an issue behind the scenes.

Enzo Maresca has an internal issue at Chelsea

Maresca is still yet to clarify what he was referring to, but Jacobs has reported he’s got an internal issue at the club.

He took to X.com and said:

Maresca is currently unhappy with something at Chelsea. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

“Enzo Maresca has an internal issue at Chelsea.

“Expected to clarify his comments before Cardiff. – #CFC insiders insist Maresca wasn’t singling out any individual.

“Frustration brewing for a while – Rotation debated – Wearing non-Chelsea clothing unrelated.”

Chelsea had been on a four game winless run before beating the Toffees, but why Maresca chose that moment to make his frustrations known isn’t clear.

Maresca had been under pressure earlier in the season after losses to Manchester United and Brighton, but the Chelsea hierarchy believe he’s still very much the right man to lead the project forward.

Chelsea not expected to be in position to win the league this season

The former Leicester boss guided Chelsea back to the Champions League last season, whilst also winning the Conference League and Club World Cup.

More Stories / Latest News

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However, fans would love to see the club compete for and get back to winning league titles, with the last one coming in 2017 under Antonio Conte, and truth be told the Blues haven’t got close since.

Although it appears they might have to wait a bit longer, with it believed internally Chelsea aren’t expected to be in a position to win the league come May.

With last Thursday night’s loss at the Detroit Lions, the Dallas Cowboys are 0-2-1 against the NFC North this season, and have their final opportunity to get a win against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday night. The best division in football from a year ago has given the Cowboys a lot of trouble in 2025 and is a big reason they still have a lot of work to do catching the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC East.

The Eagles also lost to the Bears on Black Friday like the Cowboys did in week three, but beat a Packers team the Cowboys managed a tie against and won at the Vikings 28-22 in week seven. The Cowboys need to hold serve against the Vikings and win playing against J.J. McCarthy. When Philly beat Minnesota, it was against their own former QB Carson Wentz. Now, Dallas gets McCarthy coming off his third win of the season in his seventh start, and first three touchdown game of his career against Dan Quinn’s Washington Commanders.

For the Cowboys to keep playoff hopes alive they will need their defense to fully seize the opportunity to make McCarthy struggle, he’s thrown four interceptions in three road starts this season, and help the team win should they have another big offensive output after losing despite scoring 30 points at the Lions for the first time all season.

The Vikings own defense will be looking to have a big say in how much they can slow the Cowboys down, coming off their second shutout in three seasons under defensive coordinator Brian Flores. The Vikings defense has only allowed over 28 points once this season, but the team sits at 5-8. The story of the Cowboys season has been the defense letting the offense down, and the story for the Vikings has been the exact opposite with the offense not doing enough to win with their defense.

The Cowboys have plenty of corrections to make in all three phases to win their matchups against the Vikings and get their first home win against the purple-clad squad since 2013. Playing in primetime for the final time this season where they are 1-3-1, it’s time for our weekly look at what the Cowboys must do to get win number two under the lights and get back over .500.

The Dallas Cowboys will beat the Minnesota Vikings if…

they win with four up front.

Dallas has done very well to upgrade their defensive front with the addition of Quinnen Williams to join other newly acquired players Kenny Clark and Solomon Thomas, along with Osa Odighizuwa on the interior.

There is a very high level of variance when it comes to how many defensive alignments and philosophies are being played in the league right now, but the desire to win with four up front is pretty strongly shared throughout. The Cowboys have brought in the personnel to believe in their front to win consistently, and doing so to collapse the pocket against a quarterback that’s been sacked 24 times in seven starts this season would go a very long way on Sunday night.

McCarthy is tied for the second worst air yards differential in the league, just -0.1 behind Tyrod Taylor at an NFL worst -3.3. He has the highest intended air yards at 9.6 among the entire seven worst passers on this list. The Cowboys regularly forcing McCarthy to layer these throws against the numbers they’re capable of committing to coverage should help them get off the field and set up field position for the offense in this matchup. McCarthy having the second-worst completion percentage above expected in the game also helps the Dallas defense here.

This is very much a “see it, throw it” type of quarterback that wants clean reads to hit his targets, where the Vikings do have no shortage of skill thanks to Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison. The Cowboys having to blitz McCarthy, even if just to contain his rushing threat around the edge, could lead to these clean reads throwing against the blitz to give space to these dynamic receivers.

Even with a win, there are going to be things that Cowboys fans want to see differently from this defense going forward. Luckily for Eberflus here in Week 15 though, his best and final chance to get a win against his old division is by sticking to what he does best, and hoping his defenders can win their one-on-one matchups in the trenches to affect the passer.

The Dallas Cowboys will lose to the Minnesota Vikings if…

they have communication issues and penalties on offense.

The Cowboys have had extra time to sit on their Week 14 loss at the Lions, which may only add to the sting of it. Players they have counted on all season like Jake Ferguson and George Pickens had costly penalties and mistakes that made the difference in a battle of two teams fighting for their lives. Hopefully for their sake, along with the sting of their playoff odds decreasing in the loss, the motivation is also there to have a bounce back in a spot it will be needed against this aggressive Vikings defense.

The Vikings defense makes their living mixing and matching pass rushers, linebackers, and secondary players all in pressure looks that change from pre to post snap on the fly. Just getting the right players blocked up for the Cowboys to have time to throw downfield will be a concern without Tyler Guyton at left tackle, a rookie starter at right guard, and Terence Steele coming off a down game at the Lions. Using the run game to stay in manageable downs and distances can only go as far as the Cowboys also play a clean game up front without penalties to set them right back.

In their win 31-0 against the Commanders, Harrison Smith and Andrew Van Ginkel had interceptions for the Vikings while Blake Cashman led them in tackles with ten. The Commanders went 3-10 on third down and 0-2 in the red zone.

The Cowboys have the ability to control the ball with their high-percentage short-to-intermediate passing game, but did not fare well throwing the ball to their running backs against the Lions. Downfield routes will need time to develop against the Vikings, and contested catches will need to be made at a higher rate compared to the Lions game.

Regardless, if this is a Cowboys team destined for the playoffs or not, their direction under Brian Schottenheimer rests mostly in the success or failures of the offense. Whether or not they can look like the offense that made a 21-point comeback against the Eagles, or sustain scoring drives against the Chiefs, in their return home will be critical in this night game opportunity.

The margin of error for the Cowboys to sustain a loss is officially at zero, and the challenge of playing against this Brian Flores defense stands in front of them as the immediate challenge to conclude a Sunday where the team they’re chasing has their easiest remaining game on paper of the season, at home, versus the Raiders. Dallas is looking to avoid a similar type of deflating primetime loss at home to the Vikings compared to the last time they hosted them in 2019 also on SNF, and playing one of their cleanest games of the season on offense and not settling for field goals will help them do so.

Napoli rode their luck for two disallowed goals, but were eventually undone by a Jurgen Ekkelenkamp stunner for Udinese.

The Partenopei looked exhausted in their midweek Champions League defeat to Benfica, but had few alternatives available, as Juan Jesus joined Billy Gilmour, Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa, Kevin De Bruyne, Alex Meret and Romelu Lukaku on the treatment table. Stanislav Lobotka and Miguel Gutierrez were back on the bench. The Friulani lost Jordan Zemura in the surprise 2-1 home defeat to Genoa, with Arthur Atta and Hassane Kamara already out.

See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.

UDINE, ITALY – DECEMBER 14: Antonio Conte and Kosta Runjaic before kick off at the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and SSC Napoli at Stadio Friuli on December 14, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)

Nicolò Bertola risked an own goal with his decisive interception, as Leonardo Spinazzola got down the left and rolled across for a Noa Lang tap-in. Lang then fired over on the resulting corner.

Vanja Milinkovic-Savic pushed away a Jurgen Ekkelenkamp strike from the edge of the area, with the Nicolò Zaniolo follow-up charged down, while Jakub Piotrowski nodded wide.

Udinese came out more aggressive for the restart and had the ball in the net when Milinkovic-Savic’s weak parry on Bertola’s strike from the edge of the box was tapped in by Keinan Davis, but the forward was offside.

UDINE, ITALY – DECEMBER 14: Vanja Milinkovic-Savic of Napoli makes a clearance kick during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and SSC Napoli at Stadio Friuli on December 14, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)

The hosts threatened again soon after when Piotrowski smashed his finish onto the underside of the crossbar down the right flank.

Zaniolo really should’ve opened the scoring when firing wide at the end of a well-worked move at the back post. He did get the ball in the net moments later, but it was disallowed when VAR spotted Karlstrom’s foul on Lobotka in the build-up.

UDINE, ITALY – DECEMBER 14: Noa Lang of Napoli controls the ball during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and SSC Napoli at Stadio Friuli on December 14, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)

Udinese finally scored a goal that counted when Jurgen Ekkelenkamp bent a sensational right-foot finish into the far top corner from the edge of the box, giving Milinkovic-Savic no chance.

Napoli wasted an astonishing opportunity to equalise on 88 minutes when Lorenzo Lucca got down the right and rolled across, but Hojlund off balance stumbled and somehow prodded it off target from a couple of yards.

Lucca went for it himself in stoppages and came sliding in to meet the David Neres cross, volleying it onto the base of the back post.

Udinese 1-0 Napoli

Ekkelenkamp 73 (U)

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Noslin's Lazio fate might change after vital goal vs. Parma

When WWE purchased WCW in March of 2001, wrestling fans were at the edge of their seats pondering all of the star power that just might cross over and the dream matchups that might ensue. As we all now know, for a multitude of reasons (most of them contractual), very few of those came to fruition—at least right away—and instead, the first real presence of WCW (in any incarnation) on WWE television featured Booker T defending the WCW World Heavyweight Championship against Buff Bagwell as the main event on an episode of "WWE Raw." While the former persevered, eventually becoming a two-time WWE Hall of Famer, whose presence in the company is still felt today, the latter would never again be seen in WWE, in large part due to his performance in that one-and-only televised match.

Ending just shy of five minutes from bell to bell, thanks to interference from WWE stalwarts "Stone Cold" Steve Austin and Kurt Angle, the match was widely regarded as an absolute drag, and often thought to be the catalyst for hotshotting the eventual "Invasion" angle, which also fell flat after such high initial expectations. Bagwell would suffer the consequence when, a week later, he was excused from "Raw" tapings and told that his services would no longer be needed by the company. With the Booker T match as the most visible evidence for cause, it was also said that Bagwell had an unsavory attitude in general, participated in a backstage altercation with Shane Helms, and possibly even faked an injury before "SmackDown" tapings the night after his poor showing on "Raw."

Bagwell would continue his wrestling career across the independent circuit, as well as in a handful of matches for TNA as his most prominent showings between 2002 and 2006, most likely wrapping up his in-ring career for Memphis Wrestling in 2024, given the fact that he had to have his left leg amputated above the knee earlier this year after years of complications following a car accident in 2020.

Read more: Wrestlers Who Underwent Drastic Transformations After Dropping Steroids

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Read the original article on Wrestling Inc.

The Cubs decided to go old-school in 2005 and 2006. From 1993-2004 they had put names on the back of home uniforms. Names had been on the back of Cubs road uniforms since 1982.

But in 2005 management decided to go back to the pre-1993 look and take the names off. What they did not realize is that would crater “official replica” jersey sales — no one wanted to buy an “official” jersey with only a number on it!

As a result, in 2007 the Cubs put names back on their home jerseys.

Thus this photo, another one from BCB reader Clark Addison, has to be from either 2005 or 2006. Of the players who wore No. 9 in those two years, this can be only one of those players — Juan Pierre, who wore it in 2006.

The visiting team, obviously, is the Diamondbacks.

The D-backs played a four-game series at Wrigley at the end of July and beginning of August 2006. The first two were night games (July 31 and Aug. 1) and the third game, also originally scheduled to be a night game Aug. 2, was rained out, so they played a doubleheader on Aug. 3.

So this is Pierre sliding into second to try to break up a double play in the bottom of the sixth inning in the first game of that doubleheader, Thursday, Aug. 3, 2006. The double play was completed, ending the inning, and the Cubs lost the game 10-2.

The second baseman is Orlando Hudson. The shortstop is Stephen Drew, and that’s what caught me for a minute. Drew had only played a month or so in the major leagues at that time and is listed as wearing No. 6 for the D-backs in 2006. At first glance, that looks like a “4” in his number, but that’s not a number… it’s the “A” of “ARIZONA.”

Lastly, that doubleheader is the most recent single-admission doubleheader in Wrigley Field history, now more than 19 years ago. The Aug. 2 rainout happened too late for them to schedule a split DH and there were no other possible makeup dates. The Cubs won the nightcap 7-3.

The start of the 2025-26 women’s college basketball season has not been kind to the ACC.

The conference has seen two teams that began the season ranked in the top 10 tumble all the way out of the top 25. In the latest AP Top 25 poll, every ACC that is still ranked is ranked lower than they were at the start of the season. Furthermore, ACC squads managed to squeak out just three wins in the 16-game ACC/SEC Challenge.

Can No. 12 North Carolina or No. 22 Louisville salvage the slumping reputation of the ACC?

On Sunday afternoon, the Tar Heels host the Cardinals (4 p.m. ET, ACC Network) in a contest that could prove consequential in determining the regular-season conference championship, while also showing that the ACC, while down, should not be counted out.

This is an opportunity for UNC to flex their ACC superiority

While the Tar Heels began the season ranked No. 11, they’re currently down just one spot at No. 12. Their two losses also are respectable. First, they fell to then-No. 3 UCLA at the WCBA Challenge in Las Vegas, 78-60, unable to overcome a double-double from Lauren Betts and the Bruins’ overall dominance of the interior. For last week’s ACC/SEC Challenge, the Tar Heels traveled to Austin to take on No. 2 Texas, when a strong start by UNC quickly turned into a UT rout due to the Tar Heels’ turnovers and wayward 3-pointers.

Although the losses to UCLA and Texas made clear that the Tar Heels are not yet ready to compete with the nation’s very elite, an authoritative win over the Cardinals can at least assert that UNC is clearly superior to the rest of the ACC.

The Tar Heels’ advantage is their quality of depth, with head coach Courtney Banghart calling on eight players to play at least 20 minutes per night. The combination of senior Indya Nivar and sophomore Elina Aarnisalo equips the team with two reliable ball handlers, while that pair, along with sophomore forward Ciera Toomey and freshman wing Nyla Brooks, produce at least 10 points per game. Toomey takes care of the glass, with seven boards per game. Both Aarnisalo and Brooks are credible 3-point threats, as well as sophomore guard Lanine Grant.

On Sunday afternoon, the Tar Heels could also benefit from senior forward Nyla Harris, who spent the first three seasons of her college career at Louisville. Harris has assumed a smaller, yet more efficient, role since switching to Carolina Blue. Contributing 9.9 points per game, she’s shooting a career-best 57 percent from the field, while also maintaining her high activity on the boards.

UNC might lack the star power usually required to elevate a team from good to great. But if they can take care of business against the Cardinals, the Tar Heels can demonstrate that they are more than good enough to stand alone as the ACC’s best team.

Louisville has reason to believe they are the best in the ACC

Louisville, however, will enter the game similarly intent upon proving that they are immune from the ACC’s ills. Like North Carolina, they also have not suffered a bad loss, with their three defeats coming to No. 1 UConn, then-No. 20 Kentucky and No. 3 South Carolina.

The Cardinals can also claim more competitive losses to top tier teams. While it looked like UConn was going to run away from Louisville, the Cardinals deployed a zone defense that gave the Huskies trouble, requiring the defending champs to play until the final buzzer to earn the 79-66 win. Louisville likewise made South Carolina fight until the finish, as indicated by their two-point, 79-77, loss.

After a rough opener, sophomore guard Taj Roberts has begun to rediscover the star-level scoring she flashed as a freshman. The Cardinals’ leading scorer, two of Roberts’ strongest games have come against tough competition. More recently, she put 20 points on South Carolina, boosted by a season-high four 3-pointers. Before that, she scored 22 points against Kentucky.

A season-best outburst from Roberts could be Louisville’s surest path to victory.

Otherwise, head coach Jeff Walz likely will look to Laura Ziegler. The senior forward who transferred from Saint Joesph’s is averaging 11.3 points and 7.3 rebounds per game. While she had a bad night when Louisville lost to South Carolina, she opened the season with a 16-point and 18-rebound double-double against UConn. She also earned an 18-point and 11-rebound double-double against Kentucky. As size is one of Carolina’s weakness, Ziegler ability to dominate the interior could be the edge Louisville needs. All the more, Ziegler is not simply a bruising big, as she is shooting better than 40 percent from 3 and is the Cardinals’ assist leader.

If Roberts and the Cardinals’ other young guard can provide enough perimeter pop to support Ziegler’s frontcourt versatility, Louisville could be leaving Chapel Hill confident that that are the best in the ACC.

Davide Possanzini is walking on thin ice at Mantova, and Francesco Modesto has emerged as a possible replacement.

Possanzini is once again on the brink at Mantova as the Serie B side’s management is making serious assessments that can lead to the coach’s dismissal.

Surely, the latest defeat against Cesena was not digested as the team had taken a two-goal lead, but then suffered a comeback, eventually losing 3-2.

Mantova directors want to have a proper think on whether to go forward with the current coach, who had already been on the brink a few weeks ago, but then managed to keep his spot.

Now the situation is tricky once again, and there are already some possible candidates to replace Possanzini.

Sources with direct knowledge of the matter exclusively tell me that Francesco Modesto is the leading candidate for the job, but the list also includes Maran and Pagliuca, who are slightly below Modesto.

In the meantime, Possanzini’s future at Mantova is once again uncertain.

The San Diego Padres have been part of various trade rumors since the MLB Winter Meetings. There has not been nearly as much conversation or coverage about their free-agent targets, if there are any. San Diego has three spots to fill in the rotation after Dylan Cease and Michael King reached free agency and Yu Darvish had elbow surgery that will cause him to miss the entire 2026 season.

Despite losing payers like Cease, King, Luis Arraez and Ryan O’Hearn to free agency, there is not much room in the budget to make a large free agent acquisition. But with all the trade talk, it is possible the Padres could free up some money and land one of the top free agent pitchers on the market.

The Friar Faithful have spoken, and the message was loud and clear. According to the most recent Padres Reacts Survey, if San Diego had the money to sign one of the top free agent pitchers the fans would like to see King return to the rotation. He was selected over Framber Valdez, Ranger Suarez, Zac Gallen and any other free agent pitcher such as Tatsuya Imai. In fact, no one was even close to King.

The right-hander came to the Padres from New York in the Juan Soto trade that sent the generational talent to the Yankees. King was thought to be the most desired piece of the trade package coming back to San Diego and if that were the case, it would make sense the team would like to bring him back to the rotation. Whether or not it’s financially possible is anyone’s guess, but the chance of him coming back remains.

If a divisional game is a four-point matchup, then back-to-back, home-and-home divisional games are worth eight points in the standings.

This is certainly true when looking at the Metropolitan Division right now.

All eight Metro teams were in action last night, and all but Columbus secured at least one point in the standings.

The shootout winner by Jackson Blake gave the Carolina Hurricanes the critical winner’s point and sole possession of the top spot in the division.

But by earning a point last night, Philadelphia moved to the top spot in the Eastern Wild Card. To demonstrate how competitive it is in the Metro, Philly has the eighth-best points percentage in the NHL and is still looking up at three divisional opponents.

There were two major factors from last night’s game to watch during this evening’s game. First, the Flyers started the game strong, especially with shots and possession. Philly outshot Carolina in both the first and second periods, but the tide shifted during the second. The Canes started to find their game, spurred by their second line of Blake, Nikolaj  Ehlers, and Logan Stankoven, generating the bulk of the shot attempts to erase the deficit.

The other factor was the blocked shots. The Flyers are averaging 14.7 blocks per game this season. Last night, the team had 21.

It was evident that Philadelphia had this in their game plan, but it was also part of reacting to Carolina’s improvement as the game progressed. In the second period, as the Canes were ramping up their play, Philly blocked nine shots. In the third period, the Flyers blocked seven Hurricanes shots while only putting two on net themselves.

A fast start will be key for both teams, but certainly the one on the road and coming off a loss. The Canes have allowed the first goal in eight of the last 13 games and must find a way to start bucking that trend. The Hurricanes are the top Corsi team in the NHL and had just 21 shots last night, the second fewest in a game this season.

For the Flyers, the player to watch must be Bobby Brink. The third-year winger has scored a goal in each game against the Canes this season, accounting for a quarter of his goal-scoring production this season.

Trevor Zegras’s resurgence is plainly evident. With his goal last night, Zegras matched his season total from last year, and his two-point night puts him at 30 points in 30 games. He has one goal and two assists in the first two games versus Carolina this season.

Zegras, Travis Konecny, and Christian Dvorak were a noticeable trio on the ice and will once again be a focal point for the Canes’ defense. Last night, the Flyers were able to get favorable matchups for their top line. Today on home ice, expect the Jordan Staal line to get the shutdown assignment.

In the opposing crease, Dan Vladar should get the nod for Philly. In 18 games this season, the Czech goalie has 11 wins, and has posted a 2.52 goals against average and a .906 save percentage. Vladar has won five of his last seven games.

In the postgame press conference, head coach Rod Brind’Amour said that after the first Flyers goal, he “liked the majority of that game.” This might not make sense at first glance, given the Canes had just 21 shots and were scoreless on two power play attempts.

But finding a new way to win, especially after a two-goal deficit, says much about this team.

Brind’Amour’s emphasis today must be returning to form for the full 60 minutes. Today is a quick stop in Raleigh between road games. After two in Washington and Philadelphia, the Hurricanes travel to Nashville, Tampa Bay, and Miami over the next week.

Former Flyer Shayne Gostisbehere had a great game last night, and he continues to impress this season. With two assists last night, Gostisbehere is now more than halfway to his points total from last season, and has done so in just 22 games.

Seth Jarvis’s third period goal last night puts him back on the NHL front page leaderboard, tied for seventh in the league in goals.

Despite still being tied for the team lead in points, Sebastian Aho has not tallied a point in the last four games and has just two points in the previous six.

Aho was all over the ice during the third period and had a couple of setups for Jarvis in the third and overtime. It feels as though his time is coming, so keep an eye on the alternate captain tonight.

The Hurricanes announced there will be no morning skate, and Brind’Amour will be available to the media at 2:45 PM. Stay tuned for Carolina’s starting goaltender.

Here’s how to check out the action:

Time: 5:00 PM ET
Location: Lenovo Center – Raleigh, NC
TV: FanDuel Sports Network with Mike Maniscalco, play-by-play; Tripp Tracy, color analyst; Shane Willis, analyst; Hannah Yates, rinkside.
Radio: 99.9 The Fan FM
Line: ML: CAR -250; PL: CAR -1.5 +110

Barcelona’s next game is against Guadalajara in the Copa del Rey on Tuesday in a match which is likely to see Hansi Flick rotate his side and offer minutes to fringe players.

The Barcelona boss also has a big decision about who to play in goal. Marc-Andre ter Stegen is fit again after surgery and was on the bench for Saturday’s win over Osasuna.

Ter Stegen is yet to feature this season but will surely be hoping to get the nod. However, Flick also has Wojciech Szczęsny as an option and could go with the Pole instead.

Szczęsny was ruled out of Saturday’s match due to illness but was back in training on Sunday and should be eligible.

Flick spoke about the situation after seeing his Barca team beat Osasuna at Camp Nou and says no decision has yet been made on who will take their place between the stick.

“We haven’t decided yet. We’ll see on Sunday or Monday, if we have time. First, we have to wait for Szczesny to recover. This is the first step we have to take. Then we’ll see who plays on Tuesday,” he told reporters.

Who do you think should get nod in the Copa del Rey? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

The Husker women are looking to keep pace with the men and win their 11th game of the season. Early in her tenure, Amy Williams was a defense-first coach but it has been easy to see a change in philosophy in the two or three recent seasons toward more offensive production and pace. Her penchant for playing everyone on the roster has helped push pace and keep players fresh.

Now, she has the scorers to keep the fireworks going all 40 minutes.

If last season’s team was known for fourth quarter comebacks, this season’s team seems determined score early and often so that they don’t need late game heroics.

Nebraska Cornhuskers (24/RV)vs. Illinois State Redbirds
Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, 11 a.m. (CT)
Lincoln, Nebraska (Pinnacle Bank Arena)
Tickets: Huskers.com / 1-800-8-BIG-RED
Live Video: B1G+
Live Radio: Huskers Radio Network (10:30 a.m.) Matt Coatney (PBP), Jeff Griesch (Analyst) Lincoln (107.3 FM), Omaha (1490 AM/97.3 FM/97.7 HD3), Huskers.com, Huskers App
Live Stats: Huskers.com (statbroadcast – public)

Scouting the Illinois State Redbirds

Illinois State is a strong defensive team that is holding its opposition to just 64.1 points through 10 games. Redbird foes are shooting just 40.3 percent from the field and 27.1 percent from three-point range. No ISU opponent has scored more than 76 points.

Illinois State comes to Lincoln following a 64-46 win over Eastern Illinois (Dec. 7) that snapped a four-game Redbird losing streak. The stretch included losses to Northern Iowa, Wake Forest, East Carolina and Rice. ISU’s other loss this season came with a 75-65 setback at Illinois (Nov. 9). The Redbirds own wins over Dayton, Chicago State, Loyola Chicago and Saint Louis.

Illinois State features sophomore Doneelah Washington from Lincoln. The 6-1 forward out of Northeast High School is averaging 12.9 points and a team-best 9.3 rebounds per game to go along with team bests of 15 blocks and 24 steals. Redshirt senior Addison Martin has joined Washington in the starting five for all 10 games, while leading the Redbirds with 14.2 points per game. 

Trista Fayta gives the Redbirds three players who have started all 10 games this season.The 5-8 sophomore from Green Bay, Wis., is averaging 11.4 points, 4.1 rebounds and a team-best 5.6 assists. Senior Bella Finnegan has contributed 6.8 points and 2.5 rebounds, while leading ISU with 16 threes. Jaeden Pratt rounds out Illinois State’s probable starting five. The 5-10 freshman from Ankeny, Iowa, is averaging 6.3 points and 4.4 rebounds, while shooting 47.7 percent from the field, 35.3 percent from three-point range and 83.3 percent at the free throw line.

NET 12 Nebraska Cornhuskers (10-0, 1-0 Big Ten)
4 – Petra Bozan – 6-3 – So. – F – 8.9 ppg, 4.3 rpg
12 – Jessica Petrie – 6-2 – Jr. – F – 12.2 ppg, 5.5 rpg
1 – Hailey Weaver – 6-0 – Gr. – G – 4.5 ppg, 2.6 rpg
14 – Callin Hake – 5-8 – Sr. – G – 8.9 ppg, 2.8 rpg
23 – Britt Prince – 5-11 – So. – G – 19.9 ppg, 3.4 rpg
Off the Bench
33 – Amiah Hargrove – 6-2 – So. – F – 12.3 ppg, 6.6 rpg
21 – Eliza Maupin – 6-3 – Sr. – F – 8.1 ppg, 3.9 rpg
2 – Logan Nissley – 6-0 – Jr. – G – 7.6 ppg, 2.8 rpg
5 – Claire Johnson – 5-9 – So. – G – 6.0 ppg, 1.6 rpg
15 – Kennadi Williams – 5-4 – RFr. – G – 2.9 ppg, 0.8 rpg
34 – Emily Fisher – 6-0 – Jr. – G/F – 2.2 ppg, 2.2 rpg
00 – Alanna Neale – 5-10 – Fr. – G – 1.7 ppg, 0.3 rpg
22 – Natalie Potts – 6-2 – RSo. – F – 0.0 ppg, 0.0 rpg
3 – Allison Weidner [Out] – 5-10 – Gr. – G – Redshirt
Head Coach: Amy Williams (Nebraska, 1998) 10th Season at Nebraska (168-123); 19th Season Overall (361-232)

Illinois State Redbirds (5-5, 0-1 Missouri Valley)
22 – Doneelah Washington – 6-1 – So. – F – 12.9 ppg, 9.3 rpg
24 – Addison Martin – 6-1 – RSr. – F – 14.2 ppg, 6.4 rpg
3 – Trista Fayta – 5-8 – So. – G – 11.4 ppg, 4.1 rpg
4 – Jaeden Pratt – 5-10 – Fr. – G – 6.3 ppg, 4.4 rpg
33 – Bella Finnegan – 6-0 – Sr. – G – 6.8 ppg, 2.5 rpg
Off the Bench
21 – Nevaeh Thomas – 6-1 – Jr. – F – 11.5 ppg, 6.0 rpg
11 – Kya Hurt – 5-8 – Fr. – G – 8.8 ppg, 2.2 rpg
32 – Zanyra Adams – 5-9 – RSo. – G – 3.8 ppg, 1.8 rpg
23 – Grace Nelson – 5-10 – RFr. – G – 1.5 ppg, 0.8 rpg
8 – Madison Austin – 6-3 – Fr. – F – 1.4 ppg, 1.3 rpg
12 – Jordan Fenske – 5-11 – Fr. – G – 1.0 ppg, 1.0 rpg
5 – Morgan Bruno – 5-11 – So. – G – 0.0 ppg, 0.0 rpg
2 – De’Shawnti Thomas – 5-10 – RSr. – G/F – 0.0 ppg, 1.2 rpg
Head Coach: Kristen Gillespie (NC State, 1999) Ninth Season at Illinois State (162-100); 15th Season Overall (267-165)

As a team, NU ranks ninth nationally in scoring offense (90.3 ppg), while ranking third in field goal percentage (.530) and 10th in scoring margin (32.3 ppg).

NU ranks fourth nationally in assists per game (21.9 apg) and sixth in assist-to-turnover ratio (1.71). Two Huskers rank in the top 60 nationally in assist-to-turnover – Callin Hake (20th, 3.00) and Britt Prince (59th, 2.21) – but do not lead the team in that category. Redshirt freshman Kennadi Williams leads the Huskers with 28 assists-to-5 turnovers (5.60) but is two assists shy of making the national minimum of 3.0 assists per game. Williams has dished out 12 assists with no turnovers over the last three games. UConn’s KK Arnold (4.88) and TCU’s Maddie Scherr (4.88) officially lead the nation in assist-to-turnover ratio.

Nebraska vs. Illinois State Series History
Sunday’s game between Nebraska and Illinois State will be just the second meeting in history between the two schools. The Huskers won 79-70 in the season opener at Redbird Arena in Normal, Ill., on Nov. 22, 1996. Nebraska Head Coach Amy Williams (Gusso) played in the game against the Redbirds. The game was the first of a nine-game, season-opening win streak for the 1996-97 Huskers that included a 73-67 win over No. 9 Iowa in the Big Kona Classic. NU started that season 16-1 overall.

Jill’s Thoughts and Prediction

I expect the Huskers to follow their recent pattern in playing a closer first quarter than expected before they figure out the Redbirds’ defense and start to put the pedal to the metal. No one has scored more than 76 against the Redbirds, but the Huskers should get that mark, especially after their depth takes over and Illinois State is the more tired team in the second half.

Nebraska 91 Illinois State 68

Courtesy of UNM Athletics

New Mexico Lobos vs. Florida Gulf Coast Eagles in the PIT

Mountain West Connection – Game Preview
By Roger A. Holien

The New Mexico Lobos close out their non-conference schedule Sunday afternoon when they host Florida Gulf Coast at The Pit. Tipoff is set for 2:00 p.m. local time, with the game televised on Altitude, streamed for free on the Mountain West Network, and carried live on the Lobo Radio Network.

While the Eagles may not bring power-conference name recognition, this matchup presents a meaningful final test before Mountain West play begins — one that will challenge New Mexico’s discipline, depth, and defensive consistency.

Game Details

• Matchup: New Mexico (8–2) vs. Florida Gulf Coast (5–5)
• Location: The Pit — Albuquerque, New Mexico
• Time: Sunday, 2:00 p.m. (MT)
• Television: Altitude
• Streaming: Mountain West Network (free)
• Radio: Lobo Radio Network

Team Comparison

New Mexico Lobos

New Mexico enters Sunday’s contest off to one of its strongest starts in recent seasons, particularly at home.

 The Lobos are a perfect 6–0 at The Pit and ride a 17-game home winning streak, the fifth-longest active streak in the nation.

UNM is coming off a statement 81–78 road win at VCU, marking its first Quad 1 victory of the season.

 Freshman guard Jake Hall led the way with 24 points, continuing his emergence as one of the Lobos’ most reliable scoring options.

Offensively, New Mexico averages 82.1 points per game and has shown increased balance and versatility compared to last season.

On the glass, the Lobos rank fourth in the Mountain West in rebounding, a key component of their physical identity.

Florida Gulf Coast Eagles

Florida Gulf Coast arrives in Albuquerque at 5–5 overall, including a 1–2 mark in road games and a 2–5 record against teams with winning records.

The Eagles are coming off a one-week break following a narrow 81–76 home loss to Florida Atlantic.

Senior forward J.R. Konieczny leads FGCU in both scoring (17.0 ppg) and rebounding (7.3 rpg), anchoring an Eagles offense that can score efficiently when allowed to control tempo.

This trip represents FGCU’s longest road journey of the season, traveling more than 1,600 miles to Albuquerque.

 It is the Eagles’ only out-of-state road game in December and just their second appearance in the Mountain Time Zone, the first since a 2007 game at Arizona State during their inaugural Division I season.

Team Outlook

New Mexico (8–2)

The Lobos enter Sunday riding a five-game winning streak, continuing to show growth as December progresses.

Their win at VCU underscored the team’s growing comfort executing in hostile environments.

Offensively, UNM has multiple players capable of creating their own shots, while defensively the Lobos depend on physicality, disciplined rotations, and rebounding — strengths that are heightened at home.

This game also provides New Mexico with its last chance to refine rotations and build chemistry before Mountain West play starts.

Florida Gulf Coast (5–5)

FGCU is a veteran, well-coached team under head coach Pat Chambers, known for its defensive discipline and preference for half-court battles.

The Eagles aim to wear opponents down by limiting possessions and forcing contested shots late in the clock.

Florida Gulf Coast enters the matchup on a three-game losing streak, with narrow losses to Kennesaw State, FIU, and FAU — all decided by a combined 13 points. Free-throw struggles proved costly during that stretch, as opponents held a +26 advantage at the line.

Slowing New Mexico’s transition game will be a primary focus if the Eagles hope to keep the game within reach.

Players to Watch

New Mexico

• Jake Hall (Freshman, G): Hall has exceeded expectations, recording multiple 20-point performances this season and setting a UNM freshman record in the process. His scoring ability in both transition and half-court sets will be key.

Florida Gulf Coast

• J.R. Konieczny (Senior, F): The Eagles’ leading scorer and rebounder, Konieczny’s ability to stretch the floor and draw fouls makes him the focal point of FGCU’s offense.
• Jordan Ellerbee / Rahmir Barno: Both guards average over 15 points per game, forming a potent scoring trio that challenges defensive discipline.

FGCU enters averaging 85.8 points per game, tops in the Atlantic Sun Conference, presenting a significant test for New Mexico’s defense.

What to Watch For

• Home-court impact: How quickly UNM establishes energy at The Pit could dictate the game’s tone.
• Tempo: FGCU will attempt to slow the pace; UNM thrives when the game speeds up.
• Defensive execution: FGCU’s deliberate style demands patience and discipline.
• Final tune-up: This is New Mexico’s last non-conference opportunity to fine-tune before league play.

Prediction

Florida Gulf Coast’s experience and defensive discipline should keep the game competitive early. Over 40 minutes, however, New Mexico’s depth, momentum, and home-court advantage at The Pit should prove decisive.

Prediction: New Mexico 88, Florida Gulf Coast 68

The Cleveland Browns, now officially eliminated from playoff contention at 3-10, will go on the road this weekend to take on one of the most surprising teams of the 2025 NFL season.

The Chicago Bears have surged into the NFC playoff picture under first-year head coach Ben Johnson. Just a year after going 5-12, the Bears sit at 9-4 heading into Week 15 and are holding on to the seventh seed in the NFC playoffs at the moment. With a win over Cleveland and a little help from Denver in their matchup against Green Bay, the Bears could take back first-place in the NFC North as soon as Sunday evening.

Sunday's matchup with the Bears is the first of three consecutive games against current playoff teams for the Browns, which means it's the first of three consecutive opportunities for the Browns to play spoiler in the race for the postseason. Here are five key matchups the Browns will need to win if they're going to do so.

Shedeur Sanders vs. Dennis Allen's defense

Sanders comes into Week 15 on the heels of the best game of his (very) young NFL career. The rookie fifth-round pick racked up 393 total yards and four touchdowns and helped rally the team for an attempted fourth-quarter comeback against the Titans that fell just shy in the final moments. Despite the Bears' impressive season, their defense has struggled mightily at times -- giving Sanders another opportunity to build his case to lead the Browns' offense beyond the final few games of this season.

Chicago's defense is healthier than it has been at times this season, but the Bears will still be without standout nickel defender Kyler Gordon on Sunday. On the season, the Bears' defense is allowing 357.3 total yards per game to opposing offenses -- the sixth-worst mark in the NFL.

Teven Jenkins vs. Gervon Dexter/Grady Jarrett

Wyatt Teller has already been ruled out of Sunday's game, meaning Jenkins is in line to make his second consecutive start for the Browns at right guard. With questions looming about the state of Cleveland's offensive line after this season ends, Jenkins has an opportunity to make a strong impression heading into the final stretch of the year.

Chicago's interior duo hasn't been phenomenal, but Dexter is having a nice season for a second-year pro. Per Pro Football Focus, he's recorded 28 quarterback pressures to go along with five sacks this season, and has had three games where he pressured the opposing quarterback four or more times. Jarrett isn't what he was at his peak, but he's still flashed a disruptive ability this season, recording four pressures and a quarterback hit in Chicago's Week 11 win over Minnesota.

Browns run defense vs. Bears run game

The Bears' aerial attack has been inconsistent this year, but Chicago's new coaching staff has transformed the ground game into a dominant threat. Through 13 games, the Bears have rushed for just shy of 2,000 yards -- 152.6 per game -- which puts them second in the NFL, just behind the Bills. Lead running back D'Andre Swift is on pace for a career-high in rushing yards, and needs just three more first downs to set his career high in that mark. Rookie seventh-round pick Kyle Monangai is putting together an impressive debut campaign as well, rushing for 648 yards so far this season.

The Browns' run defense has been stellar overall this season, but the unit is coming off its worst performance of the season -- the Titans rushed for a season-high 184 yards last week -- and is extremely banged up. Maliek Collins is out for the season, Adin Huntington has been ruled out of Sunday's game, and rookie first-round pick Mason Graham is questionable, having only logged one limited practice heading into Sunday's game.

Myles Garrett vs. Theo Benedet

Garrett is still chasing history, and he'll need to bring down the quarterback who has been the league's most elusive passer so far this season. After taking a near-historic 68 sacks as a rookie, Caleb Williams has been sacked just 20 times this season, which is tied for 21st-most among all NFL QBs.

If Garrett wants to bring Williams down and make him uncomfortable, he'll first need to win his matchups against the Bears' starting left tackle. Per PFF, Benedet has allowed just two sacks this season, and has allowed 22 total pressures in seven starts.

Browns return coverage vs. Bears return game

This is the first time all season that special teams have been included in the weekly list of matchups, but the Browns' special teams unit has clearly affected games to the point that it's worth mentioning as a factor. Last month, the Browns had a game in which they allowed two special teams return touchdowns (in a seven-point loss!), and last week's loss to the Titans featured a 41-yard return on the opening kickoff, a muffed punt, and a blocked kick that helped Tennessee build a 14-point fourth-quarter lead.

It's not hard to build a case that the Browns would have a much better record right now had they gotten better play out of their special teams unit. If they're going to pull off an upset in Chicago on Sunday, they can't allow Devin Duvernay -- who has a career-high 847 kickoff return yards this season -- to break one off.

This article originally appeared on Browns Wire: Browns vs. Bears: Five matchups to watch this weekend in Chicago

As the senior amateur schedule draws to a close at an iconic South Florida PGA Tour venue, the Midwesterners are off to a great start. After the first round of the Golfweek Tournament of Champions, three of the top five players on the senior division leaderboard hail from Iowa and Missouri.

Sean McQueary from Springfield, Missouri, climbed into a share of the lead on Saturday afternoon at PGA National’s Champion Course in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, with help from the hole-in-one he made on the par-3 seventh. McQueary knocked it in from 200 yards to dramatically reverse the trajectory of his round after having just made a bogey on the previous hole. McQueary added three birdies and a bogey for a 3-under 69, good enough for a share of the lead with Michael Nealy.

McQueary is a past Missouri Senior Amateur champion, having won that title in 2023.

Nealy, who hails from Boca Raton, Florida, competes frequently in Florida State Golf Association events and last month finished first in a Winter Series stableford event.

Gene Elliott of Norwalk, Iowa, is a Hall of Famer in his state and a past champion of the U.S. Senior Amateur. Unsurprisingly, Elliott posted an opening 70 and trails McQueary and Nealy by only a shot.

Brian Lovett of St. Louis and Bryan Hoops of Tempe, Arizona, are tied for fourth after rounds of 1-under 71.

Notably, reigning U.S. Senior Amateur champion Mike McCoy, also of Norwalk, Iowa, is part of a six-way tie for sixth after a round of 1-over 73. Jerry Gunthorpe, who won the Golfweek Senior Desert Showdown last month, is solo 12^th another shot back.

In the Super Senior division, yet another player from the Midwest has the advantage after Round 1. Tim Barry of Kansas City, Missouri, posted a 2-over 74 for a one-shot lead over Philip Ohler of Katonah, New York.

Given the timing of the TOC at the end of the year, the race for Golfweek National Senior Amateur Player of the Year award will wrap up later this month. Notably, Stevie Cannady of Pooler, Georgia, and Richard Kerper of Oldsmar, Florida, are T-3 and fifth, respectively, in the Super Senior division. Those men also rank third (Kerper) and fourth (Cannady) in the Golfweek National Senior Amateur Rankings for Super Seniors.

Peter Van Ingen of Palm Beach, Florida, leads the Legends division after a 3-over 75 but Bobby Lundquist of Sanford, Florida, is close on his heels after a 76.

Bill Engel of St. Augustine, Florida, and Sam Robinson of Jacksonville, Florida, are tied for the lead in the Super Legends division after both opened with 78. Robinson has a narrow lead in the Super Legends points race over John Osborne (who is T-4 two shots back) with Engel being the third man on that points list.

This article originally appeared on Golfweek: Midwesterners set the pace early at Golfweek Senior TOC

Everything was actually going according to plan, and despite personnel worries, Borussia Dortmund was clearly on course for an away win in Freiburg. Bensebaini had put his team ahead in the first half (31’).

However, things look different now, as the Borussians have to play the rest of the match with one man down!

Gregor Kobel and Jobe Bellingham – albeit unintentionally – did their team a disservice together.

Kobel played a risky pass out from the back to his teammate, who wanted to collect the ball in classic holding midfielder fashion, centrally just in front of the penalty area. In doing so, he failed to notice Philipp Treu behind him, who got to the ball first.

Terrible timing kinda unlucky and not intended. Red card Jobe Bellingham#Bundesliga#SCFBVBpic.twitter.com/fkxmQKtv8u

— Birdsofbangkok (@Birdsofbangkok1) December 14, 2025

The Dortmund player then caught the attacking player, who went to ground, and Bellingham was shown a straight red card.

If he hadn’t stopped him, the Freiburg player would have been through on goal alone against the BVB keeper – so it was a professional foul with the corresponding consequence. Bellingham immediately knew what was coming and left the field without much protest. It was his first foul of the match. 

Günter put the resulting free kick from about 18 meters just wide to the left, but SC now has a huge advantage. Borussia Dortmund are likely facing a stressful final few minutes.

What do you think? Will Dortmund hold on to their narrow away lead and overtake Leipzig for second place? Or will Freiburg now take control in their own stadium? Feel free to let us know in the comments!

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

📸 SILAS STEIN - AFP or licensors

Manchester City defeated Crystal Palace 3-0 this Sunday, away from home at Selhurst Park. The score didn’t fully reflect the game, but it showed the efficiency of Pep Guardiola’s team.

Palace started better and created the first chances. Wharton commanded the midfield, Pino hit the crossbar, and Sarr wasted good opportunities. They lacked precision in finishing.

Even under pressure, City was lethal. In the 40th minute of the first half, Haaland took advantage of a precise cross from Nunes and scored with a header on the team’s first clear chance.

In the second half, the scenario remained the same. Palace kept attacking, but was stopped by good saves from Donnarumma and blocks from the defense. City, once again, was clinical when they arrived.

In the 69th minute, Cherki made a great individual play and set up Foden, who was free to extend the lead. The Englishman shot low into the corner, scoring his seventh goal in five games.

In the final minutes, Savinho broke away on a counterattack and won a penalty. Haaland calmly converted, redeeming himself for the missed penalty in the FA Cup final and sealing the score: 3-0.

With the win, Manchester City continues to chase Arsenal in the Premier League. Meanwhile, Crystal Palace leaves the pitch frustrated and could lose positions in the table in the next round.

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

📸 GLYN KIRK - AFP or licensors

Who Dolphins should root for in Week 15 to help Miami in NFL playoff picture originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Miami Dolphins looked pretty much out of it a few weeks ago.

But the streaking 'Phins are back in the NFL playoff picture now, and they'll have a huge game on Monday Night Football in Week 15 against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The Monday night game means that the Dolphins get to spend all of Sunday sitting around and watching the rest of the action, hoping for things to break their way.

They can't catch up in the AFC East, where either the Patriots or the Bills will win the division title. So it's all about the wild card. 

MORE: Why Colts starting Philip Rivers is fun and doesn't deserve any hate

What Dolphins need to happen in Week 15

It goes without saying, but the Dolphins need to win on Monday night to stay alive.

Beyond that, they will benefit from these results to try and chase down a wild card spot:

• Bengals beat Ravens
• Patriots beat Bills
• Cardinals beat Texans
• Seahawks beat Colts

MORE: Our 6 favorite baby names for Josh Allen and Hailee Steinfeld's 1st child

The odd toss-up game is Chargers-Chiefs, where L.A. is 9-4 and the Chiefs are 6-7. Conceptually, the Chargers could still finish below the Dolphins in the standings, but that's highly unlikely. It's probably better for the Chargers to push the Chiefs out of the way.

If Miami can get to 7-7 (which would also be the Steelers record if Miami beats Pittsburgh), there's real hope to be found.

More NFL news:

• There are just 5 degrees of separation between Philip Rivers and 1st NFL season
• How the 6-7 meme sums up the Chiefs' season perfectly
• Jalen Hurts made the worst play in fantasy football history
• How the Buffalo Bills at home in the snow in December are an unbreakable streak
• Gronk reveals the 1 thing that would bring him out of retirement
• These 4 legends played in NFL, MLB, NHL as grandfathers before Philip Rivers

Week 15 of the 2025 NFL season kicked off on Thursday when the Tampa Bay Buccaneers lost at home to the Atlanta Falcons in a matchup of division rivals and throwback uniforms. From there, we have inched towards the day we find ourselves on: the Sunday of Week 15.

Before the action-packed Sunday kicks off, we have a viewing guide to help you navigate your local listings. It can be challenging to know which games will be available where you live, so the folks at 506 Sports have done the work for you, and we wanted to share.

Here's a look at the broadcast maps for Week 15.

CBS Early

• Buffalo at New England (RED)
• Los Angeles Chargers at Kansas City (BLUE)
• Baltimore at Cincinnati (GREEN)
• New York Jets at Jacksonville (Yellow)

CBS Late

• Green Bay at Denver (RED)
• Indianapolis at Seattle (BLUE)

FOX Early

• Las Vegas at Philadelphia (RED)
• Cleveland at Chicago (BLUE)
• Washington at New York Giants (GREEN)
• Arizona at Houston (YELLOW)

FOX Late

• Detroit at Los Angeles Rams (RED)
• Tennessee at San Francisco (BLUE)
• Carolina at New Orleans (GREEN)

This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Broadcast maps for Week 15 of 2025 NFL season

This article originally appeared on PGHHockeyNOW.

The Pittsburgh Penguins (14-8-8) set a low-water mark Saturday when they squandered a 5-1 third-period lead and lost in overtime to the rebuilding San Jose Sharks, 6-5. The loss mystified coach Dan Muse and players alike, and Muse stepped forward to point the first finger of blame at himself. The Penguins get another crack at victory this weekend when they host the Utah Mammoth at PPG Paints Arena.

Saturday was a jaw-dropping spectacle of lost leads befitting a spot in a Ripley’s museum. The Penguins led 5-1 with 13 minutes remaining. They led 5-2 with six minutes remaining, yet their extraordinary struggle against the extra attacker was their undoing, and San Jose scored a pair of goals with an empty net to tie the game.

Emergency call-up Sergei Murashov is expected to start Sunday if newly acquired Stuart Skinner is not yet available due to immigration visa issues.

Defenseman Brett Kulak is also awaiting his visa after being acquired with Skinner from Edmonton on Friday.

Click here to read more from PGHHockeyNOW.com.

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LSU football running back Kaleb Jackson announced his decision to enter the NCAA transfer portal Friday morning after spending three seasons in Baton Rouge. Jackson had an efficient freshman year for the Tigers, but continued to play mainly in a reserve role over the past two seasons due to the arrivals of Caden Durham, Harlem Berry, and others. 

Jackson and Ju’Juan Johnson’s decision to transfer has left LSU’s running back room quite bare. The headliners, Durham and Berry, are still in town, but there isn’t another scholarship running back behind them.

The Tigers do not have any other back committed as part of their 2026 class either. They are in a peculiar spot, as Berry and Durham are both very young and talented backs who will be hard to displace on the depth chart. Given how college football operates today, with young players eager to get playing time as early as possible, recruiting depth pieces in the upcoming transfer portal period will be a challenge. 

One option is recruiting a seasoned, bigger back to handle the Tigers’ short-yardage snaps, as Berry and Durham are both somewhat light backs, weighing 190 and 205 pounds, respectively. A fitting candidate for this role is former Texas running back CJ Baxter, who is listed at 6-1 and 227 pounds, according to 247Sports. Baxter had an excellent freshman season in Austin, rushing for 659 yards and five touchdowns, but he suffered a season-ending injury ahead of the 2024 season and was unable to take over the lead role in 2025. 

Here's a look at what Baxter could bring to the Tigers’ running back room:

Baxter finds a way 🤘 @c4era_pic.twitter.com/5orSubSIrq

— Texas Football (@TexasFootball) October 21, 2023

Whether that’s the route Lane Kiffin decided to take or not, there needs to be at least one reliable option added to the roster when the portal opens on January 2.

This article originally appeared on LSU Wire: What does LSU football's RB room look like after four-star transfer?

Philadelphia Eagles All-Pro right tackle Lane Johnson is “likely to return to practice this week,” according to a report from NFL insider Ian Rapoport.

RapSheet adds that Johnson has “eyes on facing the Commanders or Bills.”

Johnson returning sooner than later from the Lisfranc injury that’s caused him to miss at least four games would obviously be ideal. The Eagles have struggled in his absence, as is usually the case.

But it remains to be seen if Johnson will be ready to play against Washington in Week 16. Maybe it doesn’t make a big difference but it’s worth noting that next weekend’s game is on a Saturday instead of a Sunday.

We’ll see just how much work Johnson is able to do in practice this week. Until he’s ready to play, it’ll continue to be Fred Johnson playing at right tackle.

Regardless of exactly when it happens, the Eagles will be glad to get Lane back.

The Arizona Cardinals take on the Houston Texans in Week 15. It is a lopsided matchup. The Texans have won five games in a row as they have the AFC South division lead in sight. They have the league's top defense in points allowed, yards allowed and first downs allowed. They have two great pass rushers.

The Cardinals, on the other hand, are down four starting offensive linemen, have no run game and no Marvin Harrison Jr. The offense has only scored 17 points in each of the last three games. They have lost five games in a row and are 1-7 since Jacoby Brissett is the starting quarterback.

The Cardinals are 10-point underdogs on the road. NFL experts are unanimous in their picks.

NFL expert picks: No one believes in the Cardinals

The NFL's preview video for the Cardinals-Texans game has 10 NFL Network analysts making predictions for this game. Here are the picks. Notice they all pick the Texans to win.

While all pick the Texans to win, no one picks them to cover the 10-point spread. Three predict a push.

On the surface, this game looks hopeless. We will see what happens. They kick off at 1 p.m. ET on FOX.

Get more Cardinals and NFL coverage from Cards Wire's Jess Root and others by listening to the latest on the Rise Up, See Red podcast. Subscribe on Spotify, YouTube or Apple podcasts.

This article originally appeared on Cards Wire: NFL picks: Experts unanimous in picking Texans over Cardinals

To commemorate the 150th anniversary of Gelsenkirchen, Schalke played with a special-edition kit for their last 2025 home game against Nürnberg. Vitalie Becker scored the only goal for the league leaders as the 20-year-old scored in back-to-back games.

The win confirmed Schalke will start 2026 at the top of the 2. Bundesliga standings. Meanwhile, Elversberg and Darmstadt regained their spots at the top three with narrow wins over Fortuna Düsseldorf and Preußen Münster

Otto Stange scored the only goal ten minutes before time for Elversberg against Düsseldorf. The pre-season promotion favorites have now dropped to 17th place. A solitary second-half goal from Killian Corredor was also enough for Florian Kohfeldt’s Darmstadt side to see off Münster.

Week 15 of the 2025 NFL season kicked off on Thursday when the Tampa Bay Buccaneers lost at home to the Atlanta Falcons in a matchup of division rivals and throwback uniforms. From there, we have inched towards the day we find ourselves on: the Sunday of Week 15.

Before the action-packed Sunday kicks off, we have a viewing guide to help you navigate your local listings. It can be challenging to know which games will be available where you live, so the folks at 506 Sports have done the work for you, and we wanted to share.

Here's a look at the broadcast maps for Week 15.

CBS Early

• Buffalo at New England (RED)
• Los Angeles Chargers at Kansas City (BLUE)
• Baltimore at Cincinnati (GREEN)
• New York Jets at Jacksonville (Yellow)

CBS Late

• Green Bay at Denver (RED)
• Indianapolis at Seattle (BLUE)

FOX Early

• Las Vegas at Philadelphia (RED)
• Cleveland at Chicago (BLUE)
• Washington at New York Giants (GREEN)
• Arizona at Houston (YELLOW)

FOX Late

• Detroit at Los Angeles Rams (RED)
• Tennessee at San Francisco (BLUE)
• Carolina at New Orleans (GREEN)

This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: Broadcast maps for Week 15 of 2025 NFL season

The Cleveland Browns head into Week 15’s action with the fourth overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft order, as well as the Jacksonville Jaguars selection late in the first round. After Week 14’s loss to the Tennessee Titans, all possibilities are available to the Browns, especially with their difficult finishing schedule.

Besides their own game with the Chicago Bears, in frigid temperatures, four other games could have a dramatic impact on Cleveland’s draft positioning heading into Week 16. With Strength of Schedule (SOS) as the primary tiebreaker, the Browns could need some help from more teams, as their schedule has a few winning teams left on it.

The four most important games for Cleveland’s 2026 NFL draft order and Browns fans rooting guide for Week 15:

• Giants over Commanders
• Raiders over Eagles
• Titans over Niners
• Saints over Panthers

Of the four, New York and New Orleans have the best chances of getting victories. The Saints could be an important one, as they currently have a very similar SOS as the Browns.

If all four games, and potentially just the first three, go Cleveland’s way, the orange and brown would leave Week 15 slotted into the first overall pick.

The Browns rooting guide also includes a couple of other three-win teams:

• Jets over Jaguars (for both first-round picks Cleveland will have)
• Cardinals over Texans (for the Browns pick, but this could also hurt the pick they get from the Jaguars)

Cleveland would probably prefer Houston beats Arizona to keep Jacksonville from having an easy path to the playoffs. The Cardinals SOS is .570, much higher than the Browns at .486.

Six games in total that matter to Cleveland’s 2026 NFL draft order standings. The Browns could leave Week 15 with the first overall pick and a Jaguars selection stuck in a tight competition in the AFC South.

Who Steelers should root for in Week 15 to help Pittsburgh in NFL playoff picture originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have to sit around and wait. They don't play until Monday Night Football in Week 15, when they take on the Miami Dolphins.

That means that all of Sunday's action is just a matter of dissecting the NFL playoff picture and seeing what might happen in the AFC North standings.

There are wild card implications on Sunday, too, but the Steelers will likely have their eyes focused the most in one spot in particular.

MORE: Why Colts starting Philip Rivers is fun and doesn't deserve any hate

What Steelers need to happen in Week 15

The Steelers enter Sunday at 7-6, one game ahead of the Baltimore Ravens (6-7) in the AFC North.

That means the most important outcome on the table involves Baltimore.

The Steelers will be rooting for the Bengals to beat the Ravens.

MORE: Our 6 favorite baby names for Josh Allen and Hailee Steinfeld's 1st child

Cincinnati would still be a game further behind even with a win, so the Bengals aren't a threat to catch the Steelers.

Pittsburgh maintains its division lead no matter what if the Bengals win, and if the Steelers then won on Monday night, it'd expand the edge.

Helpful results in the wild card race, if it comes to that, would include: Patriots beating Bills, Seahawks beating Colts and the Cardinals beating the Texans.

More NFL news:

• There are just 5 degrees of separation between Philip Rivers and 1st NFL season
• How the 6-7 meme sums up the Chiefs' season perfectly
• Jalen Hurts made the worst play in fantasy football history
• How the Buffalo Bills at home in the snow in December are an unbreakable streak
• Gronk reveals the 1 thing that would bring him out of retirement
• These 4 legends played in NFL, MLB, NHL as grandfathers before Philip Rivers

The Sacramento Kings have lost six of their last seven games, and they’ll have a tough time getting back on track in tonight's matchup with the Minnesota Timberwolves.

That said, Maxime Raynaud has stepped up big for Sacramento, and my Kings vs. Timberwolves predictions expect that strong play to continue despite his team's struggles.

Here are my best NBA picks for this Western Conference showdown on Sunday, December 14,

Kings vs Timberwolves prediction

Kings vs Timberwolves best bet: Maxime Raynaud Over 21.5 points + rebounds + assists (-110)

Maxime Raynaud has stepped up for the Sacramento Kings in Domantas Sabonis' absence, posting at least 22 PRA in four straight games and five of his last six.

With Sabonis out again tonight, Raynaud is in line for another start, which should lead to another productive showing.

The Minnesota Timberwolves are middle-of-the-pack in points allowed in the paint per game this season, but over their last 10, they've surrendered the seventh-most paint points.

Though the Wolves sport a formidable defense, Raynaud has performed well against the Denver Nuggets, Miami Heat, and Houston Rockets — proving he can post strong numbers against strong opposition.

The big man should be heavily involved tonight as he takes on Rudy Gobert in the frontcourt. Expect him to clear this combo line for a fifth straight contest as a struggling Sacramento squad gives him plenty of run.

Kings vs Timberwolves same-game parlay

Rudy Gobert has recorded 10 double-doubles this season, and he's done so in two of three matchups with the Kings. Sacramento has allowed the most points in the paint and the fifth-most rebounds per game.

Minnesota is just 9-16 ATS, and the Wolves are 0-3 ATS across their last three games as double-digit favorites. Sacramento covered as double-digit underdogs in its previous matchup with Minnesota.

Kings vs Timberwolves SGP

• Maxime Raynaud Over 21.5 points + rebounds + assists
• Rudy Gobert double-double
• Kings +12.5

Our "from downtown" SGP: Big men balling

Julius Randle is averaging 23 points per game this season, and he's scored at least that many in 13 of 25 appearances. That includes seven of 12 games at home.

Kings vs Timberwolves SGP

• Maxime Raynaud Over 21.5 points+rebounds+assists
• Rudy Gobert double-double
• Kings +12.5
• Julius Randle Over 22.5 points

Kings vs Timberwolves odds

• Spread: Kings +12.5 (-105) | Timberwolves -12.5 (-115)
• Moneyline: Kings +475 | Timberwolves -650
• Over/Under: Over 232.5 | Under 232.5

Kings vs Timberwolves betting trend to know

The Minnesota Timberwolves have hit the team total Over in 30 of their last 46 home games (+11.70 Units / 22% ROI).  Find more NBA betting trends for Kings vs. Timberwolves.

How to watch Kings vs Timberwolves

Kings vs Timberwolves latest injuries

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here

WWE via Getty Images

In the end, there were no surprises. No run-ins or plot twists. No last-minute extensions to the retirement tour. No headline-stealing appearances from “The Final Boss” to set up next year’s WrestleMania. Instead, WWE played it straight and simple — as they knew they had to do.

From the minute Gunther was reported to be John Cena’s final opponent months ago, most of us figured the Austrian would emerge as the victor. Not just because of the long-standing tradition — one that won’t be lost on Cena — that retiring wrestlers go out with a loss, but also due to the determination on the GOAT’s part to promote and put over younger talent.

By the time Saturday arrived, that consensus appeared to have gone out the window. The match was being credibly reported as a toss-up. Those memes about The Rock appearing to make claims to Cena’s soul — and thus furthering the whole “Final Boss” storyline for another WrestleMania — began to pop up again on social media. Surely, it couldn’t really happen?

Instead, the 17-time champion stuck to the tried-and-tested rulebook. Cena fought his hardest against “The Ring General.” He countered submissions, swallowed those mighty chops, and even hit a stunning AA from the steel steps. He did his best to put Gunther down for the three-count but had to make do with 2.9 instead. Then, when the time came, he was ready to lose.

We can quibble about whether Cena should have tapped out given his whole “Never Give Up” shtick. But in all likelihood, he will be doing Gunther a favor on that front. More than six months after his big loss to Jey Uso at WrestleMania 41, the Austrian heavyweight is still being taunted with “you tapped out” chants. Maybe this will finally put them to sleep, too.

Crucially, Cena’s defeat took none of the emotion out of his final moments. No sooner had the bell rung than his opponent was quietly skulking out of the arena, leaving Cena to receive his flowers. The Washington D.C. crowd applauded like it was going out of fashion, as various WWE talents and luminaries appeared to surround the ring and pay their respects. Job done.

It wasn’t complicated, and it didn’t need to be. Indeed, one of the lessons from this whole retirement tour is the simple stuff usually works best. The whole “ruin wrestling” angle from earlier this year was a clear example of what happens when you overthink things. No one can say that about Saturday night.

While Cena’s arc was predictable, there were a handful of small surprises this weekend, spread out like Easter eggs in a season finale. The sight of Kevin Owens looking comfortable after his horrendous neck surgery got a decent pop from the wrestling faithful. There were also package videos that hadn’t been pre-broadcast on social media. The Rock appeared — as did Vince McMahon.

When it came to the undercard matches, WWE made the right call to let the wrestling speak for itself. Seeing the likes of AJ Styles and Edge pay tribute to their own histories with John Cena was genuinely moving. Having up-and-comers like Sol Ruca and Leon Slater imitating his moves would have just felt contrived. Better instead to let them go out there and make the case for why they deserve to be wrestling on more big shows in future.

WWE also made the right decision not to over-egg the pudding when it came to the ending. After looking genuinely moved as he watched one final video package, Cena made the slow journey back to the locker room. There was a moment where he looked back at the ring, as if contemplating one final run and slide — before seemingly thinking twice.

Instead, he walked back behind the curtain, leaving the lights to go out behind him. Remember that explosion of color when John Cena returned to his God-given babyface entrance back at SummerSlam? This was the mirror image of that — and just as moving. Even Michael Cole stayed silent, wisely resisting any temptation to give the moment its own “One small step for mankind…” treatment.

Everyone knows WWE fumbled the first half of this retirement tour — the portion that featured the majority of Cena’s appearances — but the second half has been much better. Saturday night’s finale continued that trend. It was simple, it was straightforward, it was unashamedly sentimental — and it was all the better for it.

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The Google Pixel 10a, which will arrive early next year, will have identical core specs to the 9a - a 6.3-inch 120Hz AMOLED display, a 13MP selfie camera, and the same dual camera on the back. Next up is a 5,100mAh battery (same as 2025's a series phone), same 23W charging, and possibly even the same Tensor G4 SoC. Speaking of same, many rumors have painted a picture of a very same-same Galaxy S26 series. But one of the few upgrades will seemingly be the addition of MagSafe. Samsung will likely call it something different (like Pixel Snap for the Pixel 10...

Vinicius Jr. has firmly established himself as one of the world’s top players, leading Real Madrid to multiple titles. Despite these achievements, his performance in the 2025-26 season has not been at its best, as he endures a 15-game scoring drought that raises doubts about his leadership of the team. Amid tensions regarding his contract renewal, Vinicius disclosed to his teammates the real reason behind his poor form.

Unlike in previous seasons, Vinicius Jr. has managed to score just 5 goals and register 7 assists in 22 games, with a notable streak of 15 consecutive matches without scoring. According to Jose Felix Diaz of Diario AS, the Brazilian winger confided in his Real Madrid teammates that he isn’t in peak physical condition, which has impacted his speed and endurance.

Far from being upset, Real Madrid’s executives, headed by President Florentino Perez, have understood the Brazilian’s statements, according to Diario AS. In addition, the club is said to be very confident that Vinicius Jr. will regain his best form, meaning that his contract and future at the club are not at risk. Despite this, the 25-year-old star already has a limit set on his contract offer, marking a clear limit on his renewal.

Vinicius Jr. reportedly knows Real Madrid’s final renewal offer limit

After Kylian Mbappe’s arrival, Vinicius Jr. has been displaced as Real Madrid’s cornerstone. Although he continues to play a leading role, the team’s attack no longer revolves around him but rather around the Frenchman. However, the Brazilian reportedly believes he deserves an improved contract, having led the team to several trophies. While the team is not opposed to this, it has allegedly set a clear limit on the renewal offer.

According to Le Journal Du Real, Real Madrid have informed Vinícius Jr. and his agents that they will not enhance the current contract renewal offer. Reports indicate that the Brazilian forward is seeking a salary of €30 million per season, but the club remains steadfast at an offer of around €20-22 million. Consequently, the 25-year-old star must decide whether to accept this offer or face the possibility of being sold in the summer transfer window of 2026.

While the Brazilian hoped for a higher offer, his renewal might just be a matter of time, as both parties want to extend his tenure until mid-2030, according to Jose Felix Diaz in Diario AS. With this in mind, Vinicius Jr. is focused on regaining peak physical form to enhance his impact on the team. He aims to break his current streak of 15 games without scoring, leading the offense alongside Kylian Mbappe.

Trendyol 1. Lig'in 17. haftasında Eminevim Ümraniyespor deplasmanda İmaj Altyapı Vanspor'u 1-0 yendi.

Stat: Van Atatürk

Hakemler: Burak Olcar, Ömer Tevfik Özkoç, Güner Mumcu Taştan

İmaj Altyapı Vanspor: Çağlar Şahin Akbaba, Medeni Bingöl (Dk. 82 Güvenç Usta), Muhammet Ensar Çavuşoğlu, Oulare, Traore, Mehmet Özcan, Jevsenak, Hasan Bilal (Dk. 62 Mehmet Maniş), Jefferson (Dk. 82 Erdem Seçgin), Emir Bars (Dk. 59 Vlachomitros), Cedric

Eminevim Ümraniyespor: Cihan Topaloğlu, Kosoko (Dk. 74 Oğuz Yıldırım), Burak Öksüz, Glumac, Serkan Göksu, Djokanovic, Bardhi (Dk. 74 Kubilay Aktaş), Atalay Babacan (Dk. 59 Ali Turap Bülbül), Talha Bartu Özdemir (Dk.64 Yusuf Deniz Şaş), Barış Ekincier, Batuhan Çelik

Gol: Dk. 78 Djokanovic (Eminevim Ümraniyespor)

Sarı kart: Dk. 90 Cihan Topaloğlu (Eminevim Ümraniyespor)

Türkiye Sigorta Basketbol Süper Ligi'nin 11. haftasında Trabzonspor, deplasmanda Aliağa Petkimspor ile karşılaştı. Trabzonspor mücadeleyi 91-105 kazandı.

Türkiye Sigorta Basketbol Süper Ligi'nin 11. haftasında Trabzonspor, deplasmanda Aliağa Petkimspor'u 105-91 yendi.

Salon: ENKA

Hakemler: Zafer Yılmaz, Ali Şakacı, Murat Ciner

Aliağa Petkimspor: Whittaker 13, Efianayi 12, Bulumbergs 11, Mustafa Kurtuldum, Floyd 6, Franke 23, Utomi, Yunus Emre Sonsırma 3, Troy Selim Şav 2, Sajus 21

Trabzonspor: Reed 30, Tinkle 5, Berk Demir 12, Hamm 10, Taylor 16, Cem Ulusoy 7, Yeboah 17, Ege Arar, Dorukhan Engindeniz, Delgado 8

1.? ?Periyot: 23-25

Devre: 48-50

3.? ?Periyot: 75-76

Halkbank Kadınlar Basketbol Süper Ligi'nin 10. haftasında Galatasaray Çağdaş Faktoring, deplasmanda Dardanel Çanakkale Belediyespor ile karşılaştı. Galatasaray mücadeleyi 64-96 kazandı.

Halkbank Kadınlar Basketbol Süper Ligi'nin 10. haftasında Galatasaray Çağdaş Faktoring, deplasmanda Dardanel Çanakkale Belediyespor'u 96-64 yendi.

Salon: Çanakkale Sporcu Gelişim Merkezi

Hakemler: Barış Turgut, Sezer Bor, Rahmi Güner

Dardanel Çanakkale Belediyespor: Meryem Gültekin 6, Dilara Tongar 9, Elif Emirtekin 10, Simge Tokmak 10, Başak Altunbey 12, Saliha Mandıracı 15, Nisa Yalçın 2

Galatasaray Çağdaş Faktoring: Smalls 6, Sude Yılmaz 7, Ayşe Cora Yamaner 9, Derin Erdoğan 16, Johannes 12, Kuier 13, Williams 11, Oblak 5, Gökşen Fitik 2, Elif Bayram 9, Sehernaz Çidal 3, Zeynep Gül 3

1. Periyot: 16-26

Devre: 27-48

3. Periyot: 39-67

Vodafone Sultanlar Ligi'nin 11. haftasında Fenerbahçe Medicana, deplasman Bahçelievler Belediyespor ile karşılaştı. Fenerbahçe mücadeleyi 3-0 kazandı.

Vodafone Sultanlar Ligi'nin 11. haftasında Fenerbahçe Medicana, deplasman Bahçelievler Belediyespor'u 3-0 yendi.

Salon: Hasan Doğan Spor Kompleksi

Hakemler: Selçuk Görmen, Gül Çiftçi Biçer

Bahçelievler Belediyespor: Ceylan Arısan, Selin Çalışkan, Eylül Durgun, Ergül Avcı, Nikolova, Fulden Ural (Dilara Yeşil, Sema Doluca, Pelin Özkılıççı, Eda Say, Nur Yılmaz)

Fenerbahçe Medicana: Fatma Beyaz, Orro, Cristina, Korneluk, Melissa Vargas, Hande Baladın (Gizem Örge, Safranova, Helin Kayıkçı, Bedart, Arelya Karasoy)

Setler: 10-25, 15-25, 16-25

Süre: 75 dakika (22, 25, 28)

Trendyol Süper Lig'in 16. haftasında deplasmanda Gaziantep FK'yi 1-0 yenen Göztepe'nin teknik direktörü Stanimir Stoilov maçın ardından açıklama yaptı.

Trendyol Süper Lig'in 16. haftasında deplasmanda Gaziantep FK'yi 1-0 yenen Göztepe'nin teknik direktörü Stanimir Stoilov, istedikleri sonucu aldıklarını söyledi.

Stoilov, maçın ardından düzenlenen basın toplantısında, müsabakada ilk 70 dakika iyi mücadele ettiklerini belirtti.

Oyuncularını tebrik eden Stoilov, şunları kaydetti:

"Maçın geneline baktığımızda ilk 70 dakikada özellikle iyi oynadığımızı düşünüyorum. İstediklerimizi ve çalıştıklarımızı sahaya yansıtmaya çalıştık ve yansıttık. Rakibe bu bölümde neredeyse fırsat vermedik. Yakaladığımız önemli fırsatlar vardı. Öne geçtikten sonra yakaladığımız fırsatlar oldu. İkinci golü bulup maçı daha erken bitirebilirdik. Son 15 dakikada özellikle rakibimiz çok fazla fırsat yakaladı. Futbolda önemli olan 3 puanı almak. Bizim için en önemli hedeflerimizden biri ligin ilk yarısında en yüksek puanı toplayabilmek."

Santrfor pozisyonunda rekabeti artırmaları gerektiğini aktaran Stoilov, "Daha önce de belirttiğim gibi önde minimum 3 transfere ihtiyacımız var. Bu bölgede rekabeti artırmamız gerekiyor. Daha üretken oyunculara ihtiyacımız var. Bununla ilgili de tabii ki önemli düşüncelerimiz var ve çalışmalarımızı sürdürüyoruz. Özellikle santrfor pozisyonunda umarım en iyi oyuncuyu alırız. Kendimizi geliştirmemiz ve rekabeti artırmamız gerekiyor." değerlendirmesinde bulundu.

Turkcell Kadın Futbol Süper Ligi'nin 12. haftasında Galatasaray GAİN ile Hakkarigücüspor karşılaştı. Galatasaray mücadeleyi 4-2 kazandı.

Turkcell Kadın Futbol Süper Ligi'nin 12. haftasında Galatasaray GAİN, Hakkarigücüspor'u 4-2 yendi.

Florya Metin Oktay Tesisleri'ndeki karşılaşmanın ilk yarısını 1-0 önde tamamlayan sarı-kırmızılı ekip, ikinci yarıda bulduğu gollerle rakibini 4-2 yenerek puanını 33'e yükselterek 2. sıradaki yerini korudu.

Gaziantep FK Teknik Direktörü Burak Yılmaz, 2 hafta sonra takımın başında olmayacağını açıkladı.

Trendyol Süper Lig'in 16. haftasında evinde Göztepe’ye 1-0 mağlup olan Gaziantep FK'nin teknik direktörü Burak Yılmaz, iki hafta sonra takımın başında olmayacağını söyledi

Yılmaz, maçın ardından düzenlenen basın toplantısında, Göztepe'nin 3 yıldır benzer oyun oynadığını ifade ederek, "Uzun vuruyorlar, uzun taç atıyorlar, kornerlerde, duran toplarda etkili olmaya çalışıyorlar. Herhangi bir pas oyunu olmayan bir takım ama saygı duymak lazım. 3 senedir böyle muvaffak oluyorlar. Yedi oyuncumuzun olmamasına çok takılmıyorum ama sayı olarak çok da kısa olduğumuz için savunabildiğimiz kadar savunduğumuzu düşünüyorum açık söyleyeyim." diye konuştu.

Burak Yılmaz, şöyle devam etti:

"Farklı şeyler var. Ben buraya geldiğim zaman bunu da söylemek istemem ama hepiniz kesin olarak küme düştü diye baktığınız bir Gaziantep FK vardı. 0 puan, 6 gol yemiş, hiç gol atamamış Gaziantep FK, bugün 23 puanla herkesin Avrupa hayalleri kurduğu bir takım konumunda ve bakıyorum ki tribünün arkasından bana küfür ediyorlar."

Taraftarın 'Burak Hoca takım neden oynamıyor' diye bağırdığını anlatan Yılmaz, şu ifadeleri kullandı:

"Saygı duyuyorum. Bu şehirde siyaset fazla. Özellikle başkanıma vurmak isteyenlerin benim üzerimden yapmasını kabul edebilirim ama ben hiçbir zaman kimsenin adamı olmadığım için bunları asla ve asla kabul etmiyorum. İnsanda biraz kıymet duygusu olur. Biraz vefa duygusu olur. Bugün 23 puan almış bu çocuklar. O yüzden Rize maçımız var, ondan sonra Başakşehir maçımız var. Ondan sonra ben burada olmayacağım. Allah izin verirse Rize ve Başakşehir maçını kazanıp ondan sonra burada olmayacağım. Çünkü ben burada her şeyle mücadele eden, tesislerde kalan, ekibimle birlikte her şeyi yapan bir hoca olarak ben bugün kulübenin arkasından küfür yemeyi hak etmedim. 7 tane ilk 11 oyuncumuzun olmadığı yerde karşıdan Burak Hoca neden oynamıyor bu takım demeyi hak etmedim. Benim oyuncularım hak etmedi. Benim ekibim hak etmedi. O yüzden önümüzde iki tane maç var. Allah'ın izniyle hem kupada Rize'yi hem de Başakşehir maçında galip geleceğiz. Ondan sonra da helalleşeceğiz."

Turkcell Kadın Futbol Süper Ligi'nin 12. haftasında Ankara Büyükşehir Belediyesi (ABB) FOMGET ile Fenerbahçe arsaVev karşı karşıya geldi. Mücadele 1-1'lik eşitlikle sona erdi.

Turkcell Kadın Futbol Süper Ligi'nin 12. haftasında Ankara Büyükşehir Belediyesi (ABB) FOMGET ile Fenerbahçe arsaVev 1-1 berabere kaldı.

Konuk takım Fenerbahçe, Osmanlı Stadı'nda oynanan karşılaşmada Marta Cox'un 58. dakikada kaydettiği golle 1-0 öne geçti.

ABB FOMGET, 90. dakikada Milica Mijatovic'in penaltıdan attığı golle skora denge getirdi ve karşılaşma 1-1 berabere sona erdi.

Trendyol Süper Lig'in 16. haftasındaki Mısırlı.com.tr Fatih Karagümrük, Kocaelispor'u konuk etti.

Trendyol Süper Lig'in 16. haftasındaki Mısırlı.com.tr Fatih Karagümrük, Kocaelispor'u konuk etti.

MAÇTAN DAKİKALAR

17. dakikada Serdar Dursun'un pasıyla topla buluşan Agyei'nin ceza sahası ön çizgisinin sağ çaprazından yaptığı vuruşta meşin yuvarlak, iki direğe çarpıp oyun alanına döndü. Penaltı noktası civarında dönen topu önünde bulan Serdar Dursun'un vuruşunda Fatih Karagümrük savunması gole izin vermedi.

21. dakikada Johnson'ın pasıyla topla buluşan Fofana'nın ceza sahası sağ çaprazından vuruşunda Kocaelisporlu Smolcic, meşin yuvarlağa müdahale etti. Dönen topu önünde bulan Serginho'nun vuruşunda kaleci Jovanovic'in çeldiği meşin yuvarlağı Fatih Karagümrük savunması kornere gönderdi.

Karşılaşmanın ilk yarısı 0-0 sona erdi.

Football Italia’s transfer expert Alfredo Pedullà examines referee controversies from Torino-Cremonese and Parma-Lazio and criticises the reported proposal to reschedule a big game from Round 30 by just 45 minutes.

Pedullà’s latest video for Football Italia on YouTube touches on several issues in Serie A, including referee controversies in Torino-Cremonese and Parma-Lazio.

Cremonese were not given a penalty kick despite a clear Simeone handball, a kind of incident that previously led to opposite decisions from the referee and VAR.

“They need to explain how this works, because it can’t go on like this,” Pedullà said.

“VAR unplagged itself and decided not to intervene; that’s not a penalty! So they need to guide us on all the other situations that, in the same circumstances, should not be penalties either.”

The Italian pundit also praised Cremonese coach Davide Nicola for the sportsmanship shown in post-match interviews.

Pedullà also criticised the latest proposal, which appeared in the Italian media, to potentially postpone a big game of Round 30 by just 45 minutes in order to give Gennaro Gattuso more rested players for the World Cup play-off in March.

DAN referee pundit Luca Marelli claims that Christian Pulisic’s goal for Milan against Sassuolo shouldn’t have been disallowed, but the Neroverdi deserved a penalty kick for a Strahinja Pavlović foul.

Milan’s 2-2 home draw against Sassuolo saw referee Valerio Crezzini in the spotlight as he navigated several tricky incidents, with his decisions coming under criticism from the Italian media.

USMNT international Pulisic had a goal disallowed in the second half, with Milan already leading 2-1.

Referee controversies in Milan vs. Sassuolo

The American put the ball inside an empty net after Arijanet Muric palmed away a Pavlovic header from point-blank range. The referee, however, had spotted a Ruben Loftus-Cheek push in the build-up right behind Pavlovic.

“It’s a field assessment because there was contact. Loftus-Cheek placed his hands, but I don’t see any push,” said DAZN’s referee pundit Luca Marelli (via Calciomercato.com).

“Crezzini barely blew the whistle. This contact is below threshold; there isn’t a real push. This goal shouldn’t have been disallowed.”

Marelli spotted another mistake from the Milan-Sassuolo referee, claiming that the visitors should have been awarded a penalty kick for a Pavlović foul in the dying minutes, with the result set to 2-2.

“Pavlovic didn’t touch the ball, but with his right leg, he hit Cheddira’s left leg. VAR were too hasty. It was a penalty, and VAR should have intervened,” Marelli said.

Milan remain the Serie A table leaders with 32 points, but they will be overtaken by Napoli if the Partenopei beat Udinese away today.

Davide Bartesaghi is Football Italia’s MOTM in Milan’s 2-2 draw against Sassuolo, but Andrea Pinamonti was impressive for the Neroverdi, providing two assists.

Milan 2-2 Sassuolo: Player Ratings

Milan: Maignan 6.5; Tomori 5, Gabbia 5 (60′ De Winter 5), Pavlovic 5.5; Saelemaekers 6.5 (90′ Athekame N/A), Loftus-Cheek 6.5, Modric 5.5, Rabiot 6, Bartesaghi 8 (90′ Estupinan N/A); Pulisic 5.5 (73′ Ricci 5.5), Nkunku 6. Coach: Allegri 5.5.

Best Milan player: Bartesaghi 8 – First two goals in Serie A. A day he’ll not forget, but it wasn’t enough to secure all three points.

Lowest Milan rating: Tomori 5 – Lost track of Laurienté when the Frenchman scored the equaliser, and even later on, when he could have scored the third one for Sassuolo. Gabbia and De Winter were also equally disappointing.

Milan coach: Allegri 5.5 – Milan once again dropped points against a newly promoted side at San Siro. The Rossoneri boss didn’t have many options in attack, which is why Pulisic’s substitution will make people talk in the coming days.

Sassuolo: Muric 6.5; Walukiewicz 5.5, Idzes 5.5, Muharemovic 6, Candé 5.5 (60′ Doig 6.5); Thorstvedt 6, Matic 6.5, Koné 7.5; Volpato 6 (86′ Moro N/A), Pinamonti 7.5 (86′ Cheddira), Fadera 5.5 (60′ Laurienté 7.5). Coach: Grosso (suspended) 7.

Best Sassuolo player: Pinamonti 7.5 – Two fantastic assists to inspire Sassuolo’s big draw at San Siro. He now has four goals and three assists in 15 Serie A matches this term. Still looking for consistency, but also underrated. Koné was also brilliant today, besides his goal.

Lowest Sassuolo rating: Fadera 5.5 – He helped the team defensively, but took a big risk in the first half when he lost possession just outside the box.

Sassuolo coach: Grosso 7 – Just one loss in the last five games. The game plan was excellent, including leaving Laurienté on the bench to hurt Milan in the second part of the match. Sassuolo have 21 points, practically safe already, and it’s not even Christmas. Oh, and don’t forget they were without Berardi today.

Massimiliano Allegri insists he would have replaced Christian Pulisic even if Milan didn’t play in the Supercoppa next week, but feels it was ‘too easy’ for Sassuolo to score goals in a 2-2 draw.

Milan were held to a 2-2 draw by newly promoted side Sassuolo at San Siro on Sunday.

The Rossoneri already dropped points against Cremonese and Pisa, two other teams coming from Serie B, earlier this season.

Davide Bartesaghi scored his first two goals in Serie A, but Ismael Koné and Armand Laurienté helped a brave Sassuolo return home with one point in their pocket.

“I think we played a good game, we attacked well, and Sassuolo are always dangerous because they have quality in attack, so if you don’t recover the ball immediately, you are forced to track back for 90 minutes,” Allegri told DAZN.

“We played a good game, but in the end, we even risked losing it. Now we focus on the Supercoppa.

“The lads played a good game, regardless of the players’ characteristics. For now, we are still the table leaders, and our target is to qualify for the Champions League,” the Italian tactician continued.

“We know there’s a lot of work to do, and obviously, we must start conceding fewer goals. I can’t absolutely blame the lads today.”

Milan will face Napoli in Saudi Arabia in the Supercoppa Italia semifinal next Thursday.

Allegri replaced Pulisic in the second half and said he would have done the same even if Milan didn’t play the Partenopei next week.

“I would have done it anyway. Christian had joined us in Turin after a fever and then trained. He played well for 72 minutes, but at that moment, we needed one more midfielder. Loftus-Cheek held firm up front, but we had to defend better, especially for the second goal. We had to follow Laurienté, and it was too easy for them to score.”

Christopher Nkunku provided the assist for Bartesaghi’s second goal.

Allegri explains Pulisic’s substitution

“Today he played a good game, as in Turin. He was decisive for the second goal; he had a chance in the final minutes,” argued Allegri.

“He was very good. We know the team’s quality, we know we can’t win every game, and we must give consistency to the results. Today, we could have lost the match, but we took home a draw. Today it seems that we’ve thrown two points away, but in the end, it will prove to be useful.”

Matteo Gabbia was subbed off with a suspected knee injury in the second half.

“Let’s see. Hopefully it’s nothing serious. We’ll see tomorrow, but De Winter and Odogu will be ready to play,” concluded Allegri.

Napoli director Giovanni Manna insists they must remain ‘positive’ during an injury crisis after Champions League setbacks, but demands ‘more determination’ from Lorenzo Lucca.

It kicks off at the Bluenergy Stadium in Udine at 14.00 GMT.

See how all today’s five Serie A games unfold on the Liveblog.

The Partenopei are flying high in Serie A at the top of the table alongside AC Milan, but the lack of options for squad rotation are starting to take their toll.

They looked exhausted in the midweek Champions League defeat to Benfica, which left them scrambling just to secure a place in the play-offs.

Napoli running out of steam

“Quite simply, we are playing with the same figures repeatedly, because there are few alternatives, it becomes difficult to rotate,” Manna told DAZN Italia.

“We proved that we were superior over our opponents with a series of head-to-head wins, it can happen that you feel fatigued and if you are not at 100 per cent in the Champions League, you will struggle.

“There are many matches, we hope to get as many players back as possible. It is a tough game today, a very physical one, so we must be positive.”

The injury list just keeps growing, as Juan Jesus has joined Billy Gilmour, Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa, Kevin De Bruyne, Alex Meret and Romelu Lukaku on the treatment table.

At least Stanislav Lobotka and Miguel Gutierrez are back for a spot on the bench, while the only change to the starting XI is Leonardo Spinazzola.

Is there a reason why Napoli give their best in Serie A and yet are struggling so badly in the Champions League?

“If I analyse the Champions League games, the only one we got really badly wrong was in Eindhoven,” insisted Manna of that 6-1 loss.

“We were down to 10 men with Manchester City for over an hour, we deserved more against Eintracht, we beat Qarabag and Sporting. Our energy levels were depleted against Benfica, but we still created scoring opportunities.

“I remain very positive, I feel the work that the coach and players are doing is clear for all to see. Now we’ve got to keep focused and try to bring home the points.”

Despite the injury crisis, ex-Udinese striker Lorenzo Lucca can barely get on the pitch, as Rasmus Hojlund is the first choice centre-forward.

There have also been reports that Napoli could try to sign Udinese midfielder Arthur Atta, although he is out of action today.

“I am hardly the first to notice Atta’s talent and everyone knows he’s destined for a great career,” replied the Napoli director when pushed on this player.

“Aside from the transfer gossip, he is a player beyond our range right now. Udinese always had a great scouting network to find talented young players with big prospects.

“As for Lucca, he needs to speed up the process of settling in and show more determination on the field. We are convinced he has the right characteristics to play for Napoli, but he must understand this is a different club to Udinese, he needs to show determination every single day in training and on the pitch.”

Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo would prefer a move to Real Madrid to joining Barcelona in the January transfer window, according to Defensa Central. Mainoo is ready to leave Man Utd on a loan deal in the middle of the season. The 20-year-old England international midfielder has become frustrated by his lack of chances under […]

The post Kobbie Mainoo prefers Real Madrid to Barcelona? appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Kobbie Mainoo prefers Real Madrid to Barcelona? appeared first on Soccer News.

Arne Slot claimed he has no remaining issues to resolve with Mohamed Salah, after the latter returned to Liverpool’s squad. Salah came off the bench to set up Hugo Ekitike’s second goal in Saturday’s 2-0 win over Brighton at Anfield. That assist saw Salah set a new record for Premier League goal contributions for a […]

The post Slot: No issues to resolve with Salah appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Slot: No issues to resolve with Salah appeared first on Soccer News.

HOVERAir is teaming up with the Freeride World Tour (FWT) 2026 to bring fans closer to the action than ever before, capturing breathtaking aerial footage of the world’s top freeriders as they tackle some of the most challenging off-piste terrain in Spain and beyond. Using the HOVERAir X1 PROMAX with its new Ski Mode, the camera offers hands-free, seamless filming that puts every twist, turn, and jump into stunning perspective.

This partnership represents a major step forward in snow sports technology. Thanks to HOVERAir’s advanced AI, athletes and fans can now capture every thrilling moment without a drone pilot or camera crew. The Ski Mode is designed specifically for the demands of snow sports, following skiers and snowboarders through high-speed descents, sharp carving turns, and adrenaline-fueled runs—delivering smooth, dynamic footage that brings the slopes to life like never before.

New Ski Mode Enhances Filming for Snow Sports

The Ski Mode for the HOVERAir X1 PROMAX ensures the camera adapts to the fast-paced movements typical of freeride skiing and snowboarding. With the ability to capture 8K resolution footage, it offers a cinematic experience for both athletes and fans. The PROMAX camera is small and light, weighing just 192 grams, and can easily be controlled via manual or autonomous modes, giving users complete control over their filming experience.

The HOVERAir X1 PROMAX is equipped with a range of features designed to enhance the user experience for both professionals and amateur snow lovers. Features like Smart Ascend, which automatically avoids obstacles and people, ensure safety while filming in dynamic environments. Additionally, voice commands for hands-free operation allow for ease of filming while engaging in snow sports activities. Whether capturing park tricks, snowboard runs, or off-piste skiing, the HOVERAir system makes it easy for riders to document their adventures without interruption.

Freeride World Tour Partnership and FWT 2026

The partnership between HOVERAir and the Freeride World Tour will provide a new level of dynamic storytelling in the world of extreme snow sports. The FWT 2026 begins in January 2026 with the BAQUEIRA BERET PRO in Spain, where HOVERAir’s cameras will follow freeriders as they navigate steep lines and deep snow. This collaboration will allow fans to see the competition from new angles, making it more immersive and exciting.

Nicolas Hale-Woods, CEO of the Freeride World Tour, expressed excitement about the partnership: “The Freeride World Tour has always embraced innovation that enhances the fan and rider experience. HOVERAir cameras help our FWT athletes capture new angles effortlessly and hands-free, bringing a new level of dynamic storytelling to the mountains.”

As the Freeride World Tour moves through its stops in 2026, HOVERAir’s camera technology will provide spectacular aerial shots of the action, offering both competitors and fans a new perspective on this thrilling event.

Improved Features for Challenging Winter Conditions

The HOVERAir X1 PROMAX is specifically designed for challenging winter conditions, with enhanced features that enable smooth filming even in the coldest environments. The camera is compatible with cold-weather accessories, including the Thermo Smart Battery, which operates reliably at temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F). This ensures that the camera can continue filming without interruption, even in harsh alpine conditions.

Moreover, the PowerCase, a portable charging case, provides on-the-go charging, making it perfect for skiers and snowboarders who need to keep their gear powered throughout long days on the slopes.

A Complete Filming Solution for Snow Sports Enthusiasts

HOVERAir’s new X1 PROMAX camera and Ski Mode provide a complete filming solution for those seeking to capture their snow sports adventures. The camera is ideal for athletes and creators who want to enjoy their time on the slopes while effortlessly recording their experiences. Whether you’re hitting the slopes with friends, capturing your first powder day, or filming your best run yet, the PROMAX makes it simple to get high-quality aerial footage without the need for a separate camera crew or drone pilot.

With Masabi integration for easy flight, HOVERAir makes it easier than ever to capture and share winter adventures. The camera’s autonomous features, including Spiral Mode and Dolly Zoom, expand creative possibilities, allowing users to add cinematic flair to their recordings.

Perfect Holiday Gift for Snow Lovers and Creators

As the holiday season approaches, the HOVERAir X1 PROMAX makes the perfect gift for snow lovers and aspiring filmmakers. Whether you’re an athlete looking to document your snow sports experiences or a creator seeking to share your winter adventures, HOVERAir provides a reliable, high-tech tool for capturing stunning footage.

For a limited time, HOVERAir is offering special holiday pricing, with the PROMAX available for $599 and the PROMAX Ski Bundle designed for cold-weather use available for $1069.

Looking Ahead: HOVERAir’s Growing Influence in Snow Sports Filming

HOVERAir’s partnership with the Freeride World Tour is just the beginning of its mission to transform how snow sports are captured. With its advanced technology, epic moments on the slopes are now within reach for everyone from professional athletes pushing their limits to casual skiers enjoying the thrill of the ride. As the winter season unfolds, the HOVERAir X1 PROMAX is poised to become an essential companion for adventure filmmakers and winter sports enthusiasts around the world, making every descent and jump unforgettable.

Luxury sleeper trains have seen a significant resurgence in popularity in recent years, providing travellers with a one-of-a-kind and nostalgic way to explore some of the world’s most captivating destinations. Two notable examples of this revival are the Blue Jasmine in Thailand and the La Dolce Vita Orient Express in Italy. These trains have successfully reimagined the golden age of rail travel, fusing vintage aesthetics with modern luxury to create immersive travel experiences that extend far beyond simple transportation. As more travellers seek slow travel and authentic experiences, these sleeper trains are being positioned as the ultimate way to explore the cultural heart of Thailand and Italy, offering the ideal blend of heritage, luxury, and scenic beauty.

Blue Jasmine: Thailand’s Premier Luxury Rail Experience

Thailand has long been a popular destination for travellers seeking sun, culture, and adventure. However, in recent years, the country has turned its focus to offering more exclusive and immersive experiences, with the launch of the Blue Jasmine sleeper train serving as a prime example of this shift. Restored from a collection of vintage Japanese carriages, Blue Jasmine has been transformed into a luxurious travel experience that traverses the diverse landscapes of Thailand, from the bustling city of Bangkok to the historic temples and lush forests of northern Thailand.

This nine-day rail journey, which began operating in late 2025, takes passengers on a scenic route that passes through culturally rich destinations such as Ayutthaya, Uthai Thani, Sukhothai, and Chiang Mai. The experience is designed to immerse travellers in the history, culture, and art of Thailand, with each stop offering curated excursions that focus on local crafts, traditional customs, and iconic heritage sites. With a limited number of cabins and panoramic lounges, the Blue Jasmine offers an intimate and comfortable setting for those seeking a more personal connection with their surroundings.

The train’s interior has been designed to blend vintage style with modern luxury, featuring elegant cabins with ensuite bathrooms, fine dining options, and exceptional onboard service. Passengers can enjoy gourmet Thai meals, relax in the onboard lounge, and participate in various cultural activities such as pottery workshops and silk weaving demonstrations. These experiences are complemented by well-organised excursions at every stop, allowing guests to engage directly with local artisans, learn about ancient Thai traditions, and explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites. As such, Blue Jasmine represents a new frontier for tourism in Thailand, positioning the country’s rail network as a key player in the growing market for luxury heritage tourism.

The Strategic Vision of Thailand’s Rail Tourism Development

The launch of Blue Jasmine fits neatly within Thailand’s broader tourism strategy, which aims to diversify its offerings and attract high-end, culturally engaged visitors. The Thai government has long been focused on promoting the country’s rich history and culture, and luxury sleeper trains are being seen as a key component in this vision. By revitalising its rail network, Thailand is able to showcase both its natural beauty and its deep cultural heritage in a manner that is distinctly different from traditional beach or city tourism.

With the success of Blue Jasmine, Thailand is positioning itself as a prime destination for those seeking a slow, reflective, and enriching travel experience. The emphasis on cultural immersion, coupled with the country’s strong focus on sustainability, means that this train journey offers a model for eco-friendly travel that not only benefits the local economy but also helps preserve the country’s rich heritage.

La Dolce Vita Orient Express: Italy’s Slow Travel Renaissance

In Europe, Italy has launched its own luxury sleeper train that captures the essence of the golden age of travel. La Dolce Vita Orient Express, the latest iteration of the iconic Orient Express brand, has brought the romance of 1960s train travel back to life. Unlike Blue Jasmine, which highlights Thailand’s rich cultural heritage, La Dolce Vita offers an equally immersive but distinctly Italian experience. The train’s routes wind through the picturesque landscapes of Italy, from the canals of Venice to the vineyards of Tuscany and the coastal beauty of Sicily.

The La Dolce Vita Orient Express is not just a way to travel; it is an experience that celebrates the best of Italian culture. With luxurious cabins, including deluxe suites and elegant lounges, the train provides an opulent backdrop for guests to relax and enjoy fine Italian cuisine, which is considered to be among the best in the world. The journey is designed to celebrate Italy’s culinary traditions, with regional delicacies and wine tastings featured as part of the onboard experience. The train’s panoramic windows allow guests to enjoy Italy’s scenic beauty in unparalleled comfort, making it an ideal way to see the country at a slower pace.

Italy’s commitment to cultural heritage is reflected in every detail of the La Dolce Vita experience, from the design of the train’s interiors to the curated experiences offered along the route. Guests can stop off at historical towns, visit local vineyards, or even partake in private art tours. This level of immersion ensures that every journey aboard La Dolce Vita is not just about transportation but also about gaining a deeper appreciation for the cultural richness of Italy.

The Growing Appeal of Slow Travel

Both Blue Jasmine and La Dolce Vita are part of a broader trend that is reshaping the future of tourism: slow travel. Unlike traditional high-speed travel that prioritises efficiency over experience, slow travel focuses on the journey itself, allowing passengers to immerse themselves in the local culture, environment, and history. In today’s fast-paced world, many travellers are increasingly seeking experiences that allow them to disconnect from the pressures of modern life and reconnect with the destinations they visit.

Luxury sleeper trains like Blue Jasmine and La Dolce Vita offer the perfect antidote to today’s travel culture, providing a chance to travel at a leisurely pace while enjoying the comforts of a boutique hotel on wheels. The slow, immersive nature of these journeys makes them ideal for those looking to escape the crowds, embrace sustainability, and truly experience the heart of a destination.

Economic and Tourism Impact of Luxury Sleeper Trains

The introduction of these luxury sleeper trains is not only beneficial for the tourism industry but also for the local economies in the regions they pass through. In Thailand, for example, the Blue Jasmine route has helped draw attention to lesser-known cultural sites, providing a boost to local businesses and artisans. Similarly, in Italy, La Dolce Vita has highlighted the country’s lesser-visited regions, promoting regional tourism and contributing to the growth of local economies.

These luxury trains also have a significant impact on the sustainability of tourism. By encouraging slow travel, they help reduce the environmental impact of mass tourism and offer an alternative to air travel. Furthermore, the focus on cultural preservation and local engagement ensures that these trains provide a more responsible and enriching way to travel.

A New Era for Rail Tourism

The revival of luxury sleeper trains in Thailand and Italy represents more than just a return to traditional rail travel; it marks the start of a new era in tourism. Blue Jasmine and La Dolce Vita Orient Express are setting the standard for slow, immersive travel experiences by combining past romance with modern luxury. As travellers seek meaningful and sustainable ways to explore the world, these trains provide the ideal solution, allowing them to rediscover the joys of travel while also embracing the heritage and culture of their destination.

The expansion of these luxury sleeper services foreshadows a bright future for rail tourism, one in which heritage, luxury, and sustainability coexist, providing a unique and enriching way to see the world.

Situated in the ancient southern Iranian city of Shiraz, Shah Cheragh Shrine is a site of real significance, culturally and religiously. For a very long time, this shrine has housed the tomb of Seyyed Mir Ahmad, a brother of Imam Reza AS, the eighth Shia Imam, and has been a center of pilgrimage by Shia Muslims around the world. But now, as Iran is seriously working toward boosting its tourism sector, the shrine is emerging as one of the key attractions of religious tourism and attracts visitors not only for its spiritual significance but also for its remarkable architectural beauty and cultural depth.

While primarily a religious destination, the Shah Cheragh Shrine has great potential for igniting cultural tourism in Shiraz and Fars Province. The breathtakingly beautiful architecture, detailed ornamentation, and elaborate history make the shrine something that no tourist interested in spiritual contemplation and the development of Iran’s artistic traditions would want to miss. With tourism finally starting to take off in the land of Persia, Shah Cheragh provides a blend of sacred history, cultural diplomacy, and an alive and dynamic space where art and faith, together with a sense of community, all come together.

Shah Cheragh: A Pillar of Spirituality and Cultural Identity

The significance of the Shah Cheragh Shrine extends far beyond its role as a pilgrimage site. It is a living testament to the long-standing devotion of the Iranian people and a symbol of Shiraz’s identity. For centuries, the shrine has been a central fixture in the city’s cultural and religious life, intertwining with the daily activities of locals and providing a place for both worship and cultural expression. As Mehdi Parsaei, the deputy governor-general of Fars province, stated, the shrine’s connection with the local people is unique in Iran. “No other place in the country is similar to this shrine; it is deeply intertwined with the daily lives of the people of Shiraz and the south of the country,” he remarked.

The shrine’s influence is woven into the fabric of the city itself, acting as a kind of cultural compass for Shiraz. Visitors to the shrine can see this interconnection in the architecture, calligraphy, tilework, and even the poems displayed within the shrine, which all speak to the shared history and spiritual devotion of the region’s people. The festival-like atmosphere around the shrine during religious observances further emphasizes its role as a dynamic space where culture and faith coexist harmoniously.

Architectural Wonders: A Living Canvas of Art and Faith

The Shah Cheragh Shrine is renowned for its breathtaking architectural design, which combines Iranian artistry, engineering ingenuity, and religious symbolism. The shrine’s blue-tiled dome, adorned with intricate floral motifs, is one of its most striking features. This type of tilework is common in several shrines in Shiraz, but the way it has been integrated into the design of Shah Cheragh, particularly in the context of Shiraz’s earthquake-prone geography, is a testament to the creativity of the region’s architects and engineers.

Inside the shrine, the beauty continues. Visitors are greeted with shimmering mirrored walls that reflect thousands of small glass shards, creating a mesmerizing effect. The giant chandeliers that hang from the ceiling, the stained-glass windows, and the gold-tipped minarets all contribute to the shrine’s sense of grandeur and spiritual significance. Each element of the shrine, from the carved marble pulpit to the wooden structures on the porch, tells a story of devotion and artistic achievement.

The presence of handmade tiles, including the knotted tilework created by Master Fathollah Adlasa, gives the shrine a unique visual identity that has become synonymous with Shiraz. This craftsmanship, along with the calligraphic poems of famous Shirazi poets from the Zand and Qajar periods, highlights the deep cultural and artistic traditions of the region. The shrine is not only a place of worship but a living museum that continually evolves, blending the old with the new.

A Destination for Cultural and Religious Tourism

Shah Cheragh’s growing role as a destination for religious tourism is complemented by its increasing popularity among cultural tourists. The shrine and its surrounding complex are home to numerous historical manuscripts, exquisite Qurans, and other relics, making it a treasure trove for those interested in Iran’s religious heritage. Additionally, the museum located within the shrine complex showcases artifacts related to the shrine’s history and offers visitors a deeper understanding of its significance.

For international visitors, especially those who may not be familiar with Shia Islam, a visit to the Shah Cheragh Shrine provides a fascinating window into the spiritual practices, traditions, and beliefs of one of the world’s largest religious communities. The shrine is a place where cultural diplomacy takes place naturally, as visitors from around the globe come to witness the beauty and depth of Iranian religious and artistic expression.

Tourism Infrastructure and Visitor Experience

As tourism continues to grow in Shiraz, local officials are working to enhance the visitor experience at Shah Cheragh. Non-Muslim visitors are welcomed at the shrine, with English-speaking guides available to provide context and explain the significance of the shrine’s various elements. Additionally, the shrine is sensitive to the cultural and religious requirements of its visitors. For female tourists, chadors (open cloaks) are provided at the entrance, ensuring that all visitors feel comfortable and respectful during their visit.

The shrine’s location in Shiraz, a city known for its historical significance and beauty, further enhances its appeal. Tourists visiting the shrine can explore the surrounding city, with its rich Persian heritage, ancient ruins, and beautiful gardens, creating a comprehensive travel experience that combines spirituality, history, and culture.

Shah Cheragh’s Growing Global Appeal

Shah Cheragh’s role as a center for religious tourism is becoming increasingly recognized on the global stage. As part of Iran’s broader efforts to promote tourism, the shrine is increasingly featured in international publications, attracting travelers who are interested in religious history, architecture, and cultural heritage. The ongoing restoration efforts at the shrine ensure that it remains a living testament to Iran’s artistic and spiritual heritage, while its growing international recognition continues to draw visitors from across the globe.

Shah Cheragh Shrine as a Spiritual and Cultural Beacon

The Shah Cheragh Shrine is a symbol of the junction of culture, faith, and tourism in Iran. It caters to a unique experience for both religious pilgrims and cultural tourists as a spiritual landmark and cultural treasure. Its remarkable architecture, stunning artistry, and deep connection with the community call for it to be an example of Iran’s commitment to preserving its heritage and welcoming people from all over the world. This shrine will no doubt remain a focus of cultural and spiritual interest as Shiraz continues to develop as a tourism destination, drawing visitors from around the world in wonder at the profound beauty and history of this sacred site.

The United Airlines cabin crew workforce in the United States has entered a renewed phase of labor uncertainty after a tentative agreement was decisively rejected, sending negotiations back to the bargaining table and creating ripple effects across the travel and tourism sector. After nearly five years without a pay raise, the rejection highlighted not only economic frustration but also growing concern over quality-of-life issues that directly affect passenger experience and operational reliability. The decision was shaped by dissatisfaction with proposed wage adjustments, erosion of purchasing power due to inflation, and apprehension over changes to scheduling systems that could alter how flight attendants balance work and personal commitments. Within the broader US aviation industry, these developments matter deeply, as flight attendants play a central role in safety, service quality, and the overall image of air travel. As the United Airlines flight attendants union reassesses its strategy, airlines, airports, and travelers alike are watching closely, aware that prolonged labor disputes can disrupt schedules, influence route planning, and impact tourism flows both domestically and internationally. The unfolding negotiations now represent a critical test of labor relations in a highly regulated industry that underpins global connectivity and economic expansion.

Background to the Rejected Agreement

The tentative labor agreement between United Airlines and its flight attendants was rejected by more than 71 percent of participating members. This outcome followed an extended period during which wages remained unchanged, even as inflation steadily eroded real earnings. Over time, the purchasing power of flight attendant salaries was estimated to have declined by approximately 25 percent, creating mounting dissatisfaction within the workforce.

The proposed agreement included average wage increases of less than 27 percent, a figure that was widely perceived as insufficient to restore lost income. While union leadership presented the deal as the strongest achievable outcome under prevailing conditions, many members viewed it as falling short of expectations formed during years of negotiation delays.

Beyond compensation, objections were raised over contractual language governing layover hotels. Concerns were expressed that revised provisions could permit lower-quality accommodations located farther from city centers, potentially affecting rest, safety, and the ability of crew members to engage with destinations that are central to the travel and tourism experience.

Broader Labor Context in the United States

The rejection must be understood within the regulatory framework of the United States airline industry. Airline strikes have not been authorized under either the Trump administration or the Biden administration, significantly limiting the leverage traditionally available to organized labor. With external pressure mechanisms constrained, bargaining outcomes have increasingly depended on internal compromises rather than public confrontation.

As a result, union strategy has been shaped by the recognition that significant cost increases for United Airlines would likely prompt management to seek operational efficiencies elsewhere. This reality has influenced the reemergence of previously settled issues during the renegotiation phase, complicating the path toward a mutually acceptable agreement.

Scheduling Practices Return to the Forefront

One of the most contentious elements reintroduced during negotiations has been flight attendant scheduling. United Airlines has indicated that enhancements to compensation or work rules would need to be balanced by gains in efficiency. In this context, management announced the initiation of a joint process with AFA-CWA to modernize bidding systems, framing the effort as a means to increase flexibility and choice.

Union leadership strongly disputed this characterization, stating that the measures being discussed mirrored concessions already rejected in the tentative agreement. Members were cautioned against assuming that rejecting the deal would automatically result in a substantially improved offer, underscoring the delicate balance of expectations within the workforce.

This tension between messaging and bargaining reality has drawn attention across the aviation sector, as scheduling systems directly influence operational reliability, crew satisfaction, and ultimately the consistency of service delivered to travelers.

Understanding the Preferential Bidding System

Central to the renewed debate has been the Preferential Bidding System, commonly known as PBS. Under traditional scheduling models, flight attendants select from a published list of trip lines based strictly on seniority. PBS represents a significant departure, requiring crew members to submit ranked preferences across multiple dimensions of their work lives.

Preferences may include days off, credit hours, trip length, report times, aircraft types, destinations, commutability, and reserve versus lineholder status. These preferences are organized into layered priorities, which are then processed simultaneously by an optimization engine designed to meet coverage needs, legal constraints, and contractual rules.

While seniority remains a factor within the algorithm, it no longer operates through direct line selection, fundamentally altering how predictability and career progression are experienced.

Why Resistance to PBS Remains Strong

From an airline perspective, PBS offers clear operational advantages. Coverage of less desirable flying is improved, unassigned trips are reduced, manual scheduling workload is lowered, and reliance on premium pay is minimized. For management focused on efficiency and predictability, the system aligns well with broader investments in AI and data-driven tools.

For many flight attendants, however, the lived experience of PBS has been viewed negatively. Schedules may technically satisfy stated preferences while conflicting with practical expectations. A request to avoid overnight flights, for example, might still result in very early morning report times, highlighting the literal rather than intuitive nature of algorithmic decision-making.

Senior flight attendants have expressed particular concern, as recurring trip patterns that once provided stability can be redistributed to accommodate a wider range of preferences. Effective participation in PBS often requires detailed knowledge of contract language and system behavior, creating barriers that undermine perceived fairness.

Implications for Travel and Tourism

The ongoing negotiations carry implications beyond labor relations. Flight attendants are central to passenger safety, service quality, and the overall perception of airline brands. Prolonged dissatisfaction within this group can affect morale, retention, and consistency of onboard experience, all of which influence traveler confidence.

For destinations within the United States and international markets served by United Airlines, labor uncertainty introduces risk into route planning and capacity management. Tourism stakeholders, including airports, hotels, and destination marketing organizations, monitor such developments closely, aware that disruptions can alter travel flows and seasonal demand patterns.

Layover standards, in particular, intersect with tourism, as crew members often engage with local services during rest periods. Changes that reduce quality or accessibility of accommodations may diminish these interactions, subtly affecting local economies.

Strategic Positioning and Likely Outcomes

Despite the heightened rhetoric surrounding scheduling systems, the reintroduction of PBS is widely viewed as a strategic bargaining tool rather than a definitive operational objective. United Airlines had previously agreed to forego PBS, and its renewed appearance is interpreted as leverage designed to create room for concessions elsewhere.

This approach allows management to later withdraw an unpopular proposal in exchange for agreement on other terms, enabling both sides to claim progress. For the union, blocking PBS could be presented as a tangible victory that helps secure member support for a final agreement.

Given the intensity of opposition and historical context, implementation of PBS in the final contract appears unlikely. Instead, negotiations are expected to conclude with symbolic wins that balance financial constraints against the need for ratification.

Conclusion

The rejection of the tentative agreement by United Airlines flight attendants marks a significant moment in United States aviation labor relations. After years without raises, the vote has underscored deep-seated concerns over wages, working conditions, and the future of scheduling practices. As negotiations continue, the outcome will shape not only the working lives of thousands of crew members but also the reliability and quality of air travel that underpins tourism and economic connectivity. For travelers and industry stakeholders alike, the resolution of this dispute will signal how effectively the aviation sector can balance efficiency, fairness, and service excellence in an era of rising costs and evolving expectations.

Brundage Mountain Resort, nestled in the heart of McCall, Idaho, has opened its Easy Street chairlift for the second preview weekend of the 2025/2026 ski season—giving guests an early chance to hit the slopes. While the mountain waits for more snowfall to unlock its full terrain, the Easy Street lift will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, offering skiers and snowboarders a free, fun sneak peek of the season ahead.

This preview weekend is just the beginning, as Brundage Mountain gears up to open more of its trails for the busy winter season. Even as the core areas are still being prepped, visitors can enjoy a range of amenities, from Smoky’s Bar & Grill to the Tune Shop for gear services, along with retail outlets offering early-season discounts making it a perfect weekend getaway for winter sports enthusiasts.

A Community-Focused Preview Weekend

In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Brundage Mountain is inviting guests to participate in its annual Stuff a Snowcat Toy & Canned Food Drive, which runs until December 14. This charity event encourages visitors to donate toys, nonperishable food items, and small bikes to support local families in need through the New Meadows and Donnelly Food Pantries. Guests can drop off their donations at Guest Services or the Downtown Retail Store in McCall, helping to fill a snowcat with essential items for those in the community.

The initiative has already received a warm response, with 40 bikes collected so far. These donations will be refurbished by the Payette Bicycle Movement, ensuring that children in the area receive bikes for Christmas. This community-driven event highlights Brundage Mountain’s commitment to giving back during the festive season.

Looking Ahead: Upcoming Winter Storms and Event Highlights

While sunny skies are forecasted for this second preview weekend, a promising storm system is expected to arrive on Tuesday, December 16, bringing new snowfall and preparing the resort for its full opening. Brundage Mountain encourages guests to keep an eye on its Snow Report and operations page for updates on new snow accumulations and any changes to the resort’s operational status.

As snow conditions improve, Brundage Mountain will add more operating hours and open additional terrain and lifts to ensure a full winter experience. The resort is gearing up for an exciting winter season ahead, with a robust calendar of holiday events to make the most of the snowy landscape.

Holiday Events Kick Off Winter Season

Brundage Mountain is also preparing for its beloved holiday events that bring the community together and attract visitors to the resort throughout the winter. On Christmas Day, the resort will host its annual Santa Shreds Brundage event, where Santa Claus himself will hit the slopes, distributing treats and spreading festive cheer to families.

The celebration continues into New Year’s Eve with Light Up the Night, a torchlight parade followed by a spectacular fireworks display. This free, family-friendly event will light up the lower mountain with glow displays, music, and a procession of skiers and snowboarders descending the slopes carrying torches. The event captures the magic of winter and celebrates the season with a sense of community and holiday spirit.

Brundage Mountain: A Year-Round Destination

Brundage Mountain isn’t just a winter destination it draws visitors year-round with its stunning scenery, outdoor adventures, and welcoming, family-friendly vibe. McCall is a favorite spot for both locals and travelers, offering not only skiing but also hiking, mountain biking, and a host of other outdoor activities during the warmer months. With its tight-knit community and excellent facilities, the resort is the perfect place for a memorable getaway.

As Brundage Mountain prepares for a full winter season, the focus remains on creating unforgettable experiences for every guest. With snowmaking underway and an exciting lineup of events on the horizon, the resort is ready to welcome everyone for a fun-filled 2025/2026 season. Whether it’s your first visit or a return to familiar slopes, Brundage Mountain promises something for everyone to enjoy.

The beauty of America’s national parks is no secret. From towering mountains to endless canyons and from lush wetlands to ancient forests, U.S. national parks offer some of the most spectacular natural landscapes on Earth. In 2026, visitors will have even more reason to celebrate these breathtaking locations, as Everglades National Park joins Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Yosemite National Park, Glacier National Park and others in offering fee-free days to the public. These fee-free days, introduced under the America First Policy, will allow U.S. residents to access these iconic parks without paying the usual entrance fees.

This new initiative promises to make America’s national parks more accessible than ever before, giving people across the country an affordable way to experience the wonders of nature. For many, it is the perfect opportunity to explore parks they may not have visited before or to return to their favourite spots without worrying about entrance costs. In this article, we’ll explore what fee-free days mean, which parks are included and why this initiative is such an exciting development for U.S. national parks.

What are Fee-Free Days?

Fee-free days are specific days throughout the year when visitors can enter U.S. national parks and monuments without paying the usual entrance fees. These special days are typically reserved for significant holidays or other important dates in U.S. history, but in 2026, the rules are changing. While historically these days were open to all visitors, the America First Policy now designates them exclusively for U.S. citizens and permanent residents. This shift prioritises those who contribute to the parks through tax funding, offering them the chance to visit the parks for free, while non-resident visitors will still need to pay regular fees or surcharges.

The policy aims to make U.S. National Parks more accessible to American families, while ensuring that international visitors contribute their fair share to the upkeep of these cherished spaces. The America First Policy, which drives these changes, seeks to promote the value of these parks to U.S. residents while balancing the costs of maintaining national landmarks. As a result, visitors can enjoy free access to some of the most iconic landscapes in the world, including the Everglades, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Yosemite and Glacier National Park, on select dates in 2026.

Which Parks Are Included in Fee-Free Days?

The list of national parks included in the fee-free days offer a rare chance to see these awe-inspiring places without worrying about entrance fees. Among the most visited and famous parks are:

• Everglades National Park: Spanning 1.5 million acres of subtropical wilderness in Florida, Everglades National Park is home to rare species like the American alligator and the West Indian Manatee. Visitors can explore the park’s diverse wetlands, woodlands and coastal ecosystems through walking trails, boat tours and even ranger-led programs. The park’s unique landscape is crucial for the conservation of freshwater and wildlife, making it one of the most environmentally significant parks in the U.S.
• Zion National Park: Zion, located in southern Utah, is famous for its towering red rock cliffs and narrow canyons. Among the park’s most popular hikes are Angels Landing, with its panoramic views from the top and The Narrows, a stunning river hike that takes visitors through the Virgin River. Zion is a hiker’s paradise, offering everything from easy walks to challenging climbs. It’s one of the most sought-after parks for outdoor adventurers and nature lovers alike.
• Bryce Canyon National Park: Known for its unique hoodoos—tall, thin spires of rock—Bryce Canyon offers one of the most visually striking landscapes in the world. Visitors can enjoy hiking and scenic drives, as well as breathtaking views of the park’s rock formations, especially at sunrise and sunset. Bryce Canyon is a prime destination for stargazing, with some of the clearest night skies in the U.S.
• Yosemite National Park: Yosemite is famous for its granite cliffs, waterfalls and ancient sequoia trees. Iconic landmarks such as El Capitan and Half Dome draw rock climbers and hikers from around the world. Yosemite’s diverse ecosystems offer opportunities for wildlife viewing and the park’s Yosemite Valley is a must-see for anyone visiting. Whether you’re hiking the Mist Trail to Vernal Fall or simply enjoying the view from Glacier Point, Yosemite offers a wealth of unforgettable experiences.
• Glacier National Park: Known as the “Crown of the Continent”, Glacier National Park is located in northern Montana. The park’s snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes and wildlife-filled valleys make it one of the most scenic parks in the U.S. The famous Going-to-the-Sun Road offers a breathtaking drive through the park, while numerous hiking trails provide access to its hidden corners. Glacier is also home to incredible wildlife, including grizzly bears, mountain goats and bighorn sheep.

These parks are just the tip of the iceberg. The fee-free days apply to dozens of national parks across the U.S., from the lush rainforests of the Great Smoky Mountains to the rugged wilderness of Grand Teton. Each park offers its own unique experience, but they all share one thing in common: they represent the very best of America’s natural heritage.

Fee-Free Days Schedule for 2026

Under the new America First Policy, the 2026 Fee-Free Days are scheduled on key holidays and anniversaries, giving U.S. residents a chance to visit these parks without paying the usual entrance fees. The following dates will be the fee-free days for U.S. citizens and permanent residents:

• February 16, 2026 – President’s Day
• May 25, 2026 – Memorial Day
• June 14, 2026 – Flag Day / President Trump’s Birthday
• July 3–5, 2026 – Independence Day Weekend
• August 25, 2026 – 110th Anniversary of the National Park Service
• September 17, 2026 – Constitution Day
• October 27, 2026 – Theodore Roosevelt’s Birthday
• November 11, 2026 – Veterans Day

These dates are designed to coincide with national holidays and historic moments in U.S. history. They will give American families the opportunity to explore parks at no cost, making national parks more accessible and encouraging domestic tourism. These fee-free days will also serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving and celebrating the natural beauty that America has to offer.

The Impact of the America First Policy

The America First Policy, which is central to the fee-free initiative, prioritises U.S. citizens and residents when it comes to public lands access. This policy aims to ensure that American taxpayers, who fund the maintenance of these parks through federal taxes, get the benefit of reduced or waived fees. The new fee structure allows the National Park Service to continue providing high-quality experiences and conservation efforts, while non-resident visitors will still contribute through regular fees.

This shift reflects a larger trend of focusing on domestic tourism and ensuring that American families have easy access to the places that make the country unique. It also serves to highlight the national importance of these sites, which are home to crucial wildlife, diverse ecosystems and cultural heritage.

For those interested in exploring the US National Parks, the fee-free days offer a cost-effective way to experience some of the best natural landscapes in the world. Whether it’s the lush wetlands of the Everglades, the red rock formations of Zion, or the serene beauty of Glacier National Park, these parks have something for everyone. They are not only places to visit but also places to connect with nature, learn about environmental conservation and reflect on the cultural significance of preserving these wild places for future generations.

Why This Matters for Travelers

The 2026 fee-free days offer a fantastic opportunity for Americans to enjoy what many tourists around the world come to see: the grandeur of U.S. national parks. From Yosemite’s towering cliffs to the unique rock formations in Bryce Canyon, the country’s natural wonders are ready to be explored. For families and outdoor enthusiasts, these fee-free days mean that trips to iconic national parks are within reach without the burden of expensive entrance fees.

Moreover, these changes aim to strike a balance between accessibility and sustainability, allowing the National Park Service to continue preserving these sites while making them more accessible to those who fund them.

Conclusion

Everglades National Park, Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon, Yosemite, Glacier and many more U.S. parks are opening their doors wider in 2026 with the introduction of fee-free days under the America First Policy. These free access days not only make it easier for U.S. residents to explore the wonders of these parks but also reflect a commitment to preserving these iconic landscapes for future generations. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or a first-time visitor, 2026 promises to be an exciting year to discover the best of America’s natural beauty, with fee-free days offering the chance to connect with nature and experience the majesty of these protected spaces.

A new self-service forest sauna in Šumiac, a charming village at the foot of the iconic Kráľova Hoľa mountain in Central Slovakia, is breathing new life into a 100-year-old tradition. Designed with minimalism in mind, the sauna offers visitors a serene retreat in the heart of the forest, where history and modern design come together beautifully.

The sauna sits near Kráľova Hoľa, known as the birthplace of Slovakia’s sauna culture. It was here, in 1919, that Michal Demo built the country’s first-ever steam sauna. This tradition was celebrated again in 2022 with the opening of a small local museum showcasing the original sauna. Now, the new forest sauna adds a modern twist to this historic practice, creating a peaceful, rejuvenating space for both locals and travelers seeking a quiet escape.

The Revival of Sauna Culture in Slovakia

The idea to build the new forest sauna emerged from the desire to revive the sauna culture in Šumiac and make it more accessible to tourists seeking a connection with nature. With a growing interest in wellness and relaxation, especially in rural areas, the project aims to provide a modern yet historically rooted experience in a serene natural setting.

The sauna’s design and construction have been carefully planned to integrate harmoniously with the surrounding forest environment. Architect Peter Jurkovič, whose studio developed the architectural study, envisioned a sauna that would be a “hidden place in the middle of the woods” where visitors can experience the slow, peaceful rhythm of nature. The design features wooden planks for the structure and a transparent fibreglass roof, allowing visitors to feel immersed in the environment while still enjoying comfort and functionality.

Funding and Community Support

The project’s funding was supported by a mix of private donations, local businesses, and public initiatives. In 2021, a fundraising event was held to save the Chamko’s barn, a historic site between Šumiac and Telgárt, raising €2,000. This leftover amount was then invested into an architectural study for the new forest sauna. The regional tourism organisation Región Horehronie partnered with the Čierne diery civic association to raise further funds through Donio.sk, a public donation platform.

Over 286 donors, including individuals, local businesses, and tourism-related companies from Banská Bystrica Region, contributed to the total cost of nearly €30,000 for the sauna’s construction. This collaboration highlights the growing support for wellness and cultural tourism projects in Central Slovakia.

A Modern Wellness Experience with Historical Roots

The new forest sauna in Šumiac offers visitors a unique combination of historical significance and modern wellness practices. As part of the Banská Bystrica Region’s tourism development, this sauna is designed to attract tourists seeking relaxation, tranquility, and a deeper connection to Slovakian traditions. It is expected to become a key wellness destination in the region, attracting both domestic and international visitors who wish to experience the natural beauty of Slovakia while enjoying its rich cultural heritage.

The sauna’s design prioritizes the use of natural materials and emphasizes sustainability. Guests can enjoy a range of wellness benefits, from heat therapy in the sauna to relaxation in the surrounding forest, making it a perfect destination for those seeking to unwind and rejuvenate in an undisturbed setting.

A Wellness Destination for Tourists and Locals

The sauna also aligns with the growing trend of wellness tourism in Slovakia, particularly in the country’s rural and mountainous areas. With its connection to the historic sauna culture of Kráľova Hoľa, the forest sauna will serve as both a cultural landmark and a wellness retreat. Visitors can enjoy the benefits of a self-service sauna experience, where they can control their wellness journey in a private, tranquil environment.

The forest sauna’s location also makes it an attractive addition to a growing list of outdoor experiences in Central Slovakia. Beyond the sauna, tourists can explore the surrounding nature reserves, hike the Kráľova Hoľa mountain, and discover the peaceful countryside. This makes the sauna an excellent base for visitors seeking a complete wellness getaway in a less commercialized environment compared to more crowded tourist hotspots.

Looking to the Future: Expanding Wellness Tourism in Slovakia

As wellness tourism continues to gain popularity, Slovakia’s regional tourism authorities are looking to build on this momentum by creating more experiences that blend relaxation, cultural heritage, and nature. The forest sauna in Šumiac is already showing the way, serving as an inspiring example of how Slovakia’s rich traditions can be combined with modern wellness offerings.

Tourism officials are hopeful that the sauna will become a major draw for visitors, helping to put Central Slovakia on the map as a destination where people can unwind, recharge, and reconnect with nature.

Gorgan, the capital of Golestan Province, northern Iran, will host the 17th International Festival of Tribal Culture from December 16 to 19, 2025. This much-awaited festival brings together artists, performers, and craftspeople from all over Iran and even abroad. But far beyond the cultural value, the event is an important tool for tourism development, economic growth, and even forms of cultural diplomacy, while it gives an authentic and immersive experience very different from what has been projected stereotypically about the ethnic diversity of Iran.

Every year, Gorgan becomes a bustling crossroads of cultures, where artists, ritual performers, and handicraft makers come together from different parts of the country and neighboring regions. It is not only a show of traditions but also a very special showcase of the various ethnic groups of Iran. The festival offers an exceptionally powerful chance to come into contact with the living traditions of the tribes of Iran, allowing visitors the opportunity for a direct encounter with music, rituals, and customs deeply inlaid in the cultural fabric of the country.

The Cultural Significance of Gorgan’s Tribal Festival

While the festival is often marketed as a celebration, it holds much deeper significance for the nation. In a country with a rich and complex ethnic composition, the Tribal Culture Festival stands as a testament to Iran’s dedication to recognizing and honoring its ethnic diversity. The festival works to combat simplified or distorted portrayals of Iran’s people, especially in an era where media representations often reduce the rich diversity of cultures to a series of clichés.

Unlike many other cultural events, this festival does not simply display artifacts or hold static exhibitions. Instead, it provides live performances, where music is performed in real-time, rituals are enacted before audiences, and customs are practiced in their original, unaltered forms. These living traditions offer visitors a profound and immediate experience of Iran’s cultural depth, encouraging a more nuanced understanding of the country’s ethnic mosaic.

The festival’s authenticity lies in its ability to turn cultural memories into something tangible. Visitors, especially younger Iranians, are introduced to “intangible heritage” in a way that makes these customs feel immediate and relevant. For many young people, this is a rare opportunity to engage with their own heritage in an immersive and dynamic setting, not just as a passive observer but as an active participant in the living tradition.

Tourism Development and Economic Impact

One of the most important aspects of the Tribal Culture Festival is its role in tourism development. According to Fereydoun Fa’ali, the Tourism Chief of Golestan, the festival will feature more than 80 handicraft booths representing artisans from across the country, alongside nearly 50 booths showcasing local artisans. These booths are not just a cultural showcase—they represent critical economic opportunities for the artisans themselves.

For many small-scale artisans, the festival is one of the few opportunities to reach new buyers, expand their market, and test their products in a competitive but supportive environment. The sales generated during the festival provide essential financial support to these makers, helping sustain their livelihoods throughout the year. In this way, the festival acts as an economic lifeline for these small businesses, allowing them to thrive in an otherwise seasonal tourism market.

Additionally, the festival attracts visitors from across Iran, contributing significantly to the local economy. With tourism as a major sector in Golestan, events like this help to fill hotels, restaurants, and transport services, ensuring that local businesses benefit from the inflow of domestic tourists. Many visitors also extend their stays in the region, taking the opportunity to explore the natural beauty and historical landmarks that Golestan offers, from its wetlands to its stunning landscapes.

Cultural Diplomacy: A Platform for Regional Engagement

Beyond tourism and economic impact, the Tribal Culture Festival serves as a soft power tool for Iran, enhancing its cultural diplomacy across the region. The festival’s international reach extends to neighboring countries, with participants and cultural representatives from Turkey, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Central Asia.

Special evenings dedicated to Central Asian cultures reflect the shared heritage and cultural ties between Iran and its neighbors. In a time when political relations between countries can be fraught, the festival’s ability to build cultural connections and foster cross-border dialogue is invaluable. By celebrating shared heritage, the festival helps bridge divides and create understanding between diverse peoples, positioning Golestan as a cultural hub in the region.

This cultural exchange is a powerful example of how tourism and cultural events can transcend borders, offering opportunities for dialogue and mutual respect. Through the festival, Gorgan becomes a meeting point for different ethnicities and cultures, facilitating international cooperation through shared cultural experiences.

The Role of Tourism in Preserving Cultural Heritage

In addition to its cultural and diplomatic significance, the Tribal Culture Festival plays a key role in preserving Iran’s cultural heritage. The festival is not only about showcasing traditions, but it also functions as a tool for cultural preservation. Many of the performances, rituals, and crafts presented during the event are at risk of being forgotten or overshadowed by modernization. By offering these practices a stage, the festival ensures that traditional knowledge is passed on to the next generation, ensuring that cultural continuity remains intact.

Moreover, the festival helps highlight the importance of sustainable tourism practices, encouraging travelers to engage with the local culture in a respectful and responsible manner. The festival’s focus on local artisans and community-based tourism emphasizes the value of ethically driven tourism, where the economic benefits of tourism flow directly into the hands of local communities.

The Future of Gorgan’s Tribal Festival

Looking ahead, Gorgan’s Tribal Culture Festival is poised to grow into an even more significant event on the international tourism calendar. As tourism to Iran continues to rise, the festival offers a compelling opportunity for the country to position itself as a diverse, cultural destination that appeals to those seeking authentic, immersive experiences. The continued success of the festival will likely lead to further investment in the region’s tourism infrastructure and create more opportunities for local businesses to thrive.

Through tourism development, cultural diplomacy, and economic empowerment, the Tribal Culture Festival represents the future of tourism in Iran—a model where culture and heritage are not just celebrated but also sustained and shared with the world.

Gorgan’s Festival as a Model for Sustainable Cultural Tourism

Gorgan’s Tribal Culture Festival is a great example of what cultural tourism can do for economic development, cultural diplomacy, or preserving cultural heritage. This festival is important for highlighting the cultural diversity of Iran as a country with not one or two, but multiple cultures, which positively impacts both the economy of the nation as well as the economy of the small town that the festival is held in, ensuring that tourism does only good.

A significant leadership transition is being prepared within Ryanair, one of Europe’s most influential low-cost airlines, as long-serving chief executive Michael O Leary has indicated plans to step away from the role within the next decade. Based in Ireland, the airline has been shaped for more than three decades by O Leary’s firm cost discipline, uncompromising management style, and outspoken public presence. A structured succession is now being anticipated as part of Ryanair’s long-term strategy, with stability, continuity, and reputation management being placed at the center of planning.

The future change has been framed not as an abrupt departure, but as a carefully managed evolution designed to support Ryanair’s continued growth across European travel and tourism markets. Attention has been drawn to the importance of public engagement, regulatory cooperation, and long-term airport partnerships, particularly in relation to Dublin Airport and national aviation policy in Ireland. As Ryanair continues to report strong financial results and rising passenger demand, the planned leadership transition is being viewed as a defining moment for the airline’s next era. This development holds importance not only for corporate governance but also for the broader European travel and tourism ecosystem that Ryanair serves.

Long-Term Leadership Transition Takes Shape

A gradual leadership change has been outlined by Ryanair as Michael O Leary has signaled an intention to retire within the next five to ten years. This timeline has been positioned as a strategic decision, allowing adequate preparation for a smooth transition. O Leary’s current contract has been confirmed as running until 2028, with expectations of one additional short extension lasting three to five years.

This approach has been designed to ensure operational continuity while allowing the airline’s board sufficient time to identify and prepare a successor. Stability has been emphasized as essential for maintaining Ryanair’s position as a dominant force in European low-cost travel. Rather than being rushed, the transition has been framed as deliberate and measured, reflecting the airline’s long-term planning culture.

Michael O Leary’s Enduring Influence on European Aviation

Since taking leadership of Ryanair in 1994, Michael O Leary has been widely recognized as one of the most influential figures in European aviation. Under his guidance, the airline has been transformed from a small regional operator into one of Europe’s largest carriers by passenger numbers. This transformation has been driven by aggressive cost control, high aircraft utilization, and a no-frills service model that reshaped travel habits across the continent.

O Leary’s leadership style has been characterized by direct communication and an unapologetic approach to industry challenges. These methods have often resulted in public disputes with regulators, airport authorities, and government bodies. Despite controversy, consistent profitability and rapid network expansion have been delivered, reinforcing Ryanair’s role as a cornerstone of affordable European travel.

Public Image and the Desire for a Softer Tone

As part of the future leadership vision, value has been seen in appointing a successor who may adopt a calmer and more diplomatic public approach. While O Leary’s confrontational style has been effective in driving attention and negotiating leverage, it has also contributed to strained relationships in certain markets.

A future leader is expected to preserve Ryanair’s cost-focused culture while improving engagement with stakeholders such as airports, regulators, and local governments. This shift has been viewed as particularly relevant for travel and tourism growth, where collaboration with destinations and infrastructure providers plays an increasingly important role.

Ongoing Tensions with Dublin Airport

Relations between Ryanair and Dublin Airport have frequently been highlighted as an example of the airline’s assertive stance. Disagreements over passenger caps, airport charges, and nighttime flight restrictions have been central to aviation policy discussions in Ireland. These issues have had broader implications for inbound tourism, regional connectivity, and Ireland’s position as a European travel hub.

O Leary’s criticism of airport constraints has consistently drawn public attention, often influencing national debate on infrastructure investment and tourism capacity. As leadership transition planning progresses, a more collaborative approach may be encouraged to support Ireland’s long-term travel and tourism ambitions.

Strong Financial Performance Supports Transition Planning

Despite regulatory challenges and public disputes, Ryanair’s financial performance has remained robust. A recent quarterly report has shown a 20 percent increase in profits, supported by higher fares and sustained passenger demand across European routes. This financial strength has provided confidence that leadership change can be managed without disrupting growth momentum.

Strong results have also reinforced the importance of continuity during the transition period. With expansion plans still underway, including fleet growth and new route development, careful succession planning has been positioned as critical to maintaining investor confidence and operational efficiency.

Implications for European Travel and Tourism

Ryanair plays a vital role in European travel and tourism by connecting major cities with regional destinations at affordable prices. Leadership stability within the airline has direct implications for tourism flows, airport development, and regional economies across Europe. A well-managed transition is expected to reassure tourism stakeholders that Ryanair’s commitment to connectivity and growth will continue.

As travel demand evolves and sustainability considerations gain prominence, future leadership will be tasked with balancing low fares, environmental responsibility, and regulatory compliance. These challenges are expected to shape Ryanair’s strategic direction well beyond O Leary’s tenure.

Structured Succession and Board Oversight

The airline’s board has been given a clear timeframe to oversee succession planning. By aligning contract timelines with long-term strategic goals, a structured handover process has been enabled. This period is expected to allow internal candidates to be assessed while external perspectives are also considered.

Such planning reflects corporate maturity and recognition of Ryanair’s scale and influence. Leadership transition has been treated not as a risk, but as an opportunity to refine the airline’s public image while preserving its competitive advantages.

Looking Ahead to 2035 and Beyond

Michael O Leary’s anticipated retirement around 2035 will mark the end of an era in European aviation. His legacy is expected to remain deeply embedded in Ryanair’s culture, business model, and strategic outlook. While leadership style may evolve, the foundations laid over three decades are likely to continue shaping the airline’s future.

As Ryanair prepares for this change, attention will remain focused on how the next generation of leadership balances diplomacy with discipline. For Ireland, Europe, and the wider travel and tourism sector, the transition represents a pivotal moment that may redefine how one of the continent’s most influential airlines engages with the world.

Canada to NYC: Experience Free Christmas Magic in New York City — How Air Canada is Making Your Holiday Trip Easier Than Ever! The holiday season in New York City is an enchanting time, filled with dazzling lights, iconic decorations, and festive displays, many of which are completely free to enjoy. Whether it’s gazing at the grand Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree or strolling along Fifth Avenue to see the stunning holiday windows, the magic of the season is accessible to everyone. For Canadian travelers, Air Canada offers convenient, direct flights to the heart of the city, making it easier than ever to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit. With added flexibility in booking and exceptional service, your festive trip to New York is sure to be seamless and memorable, giving you more time to explore the city’s holiday wonders without the stress.

Canada to NYC: Experience Free Christmas Magic in New York City — How Air Canada is Making Your Holiday Trip Easier Than Ever!

The holiday season is upon us, and New York City is once again transformed into a winter wonderland. For Canadians, the allure of the Big Apple during Christmas is irresistible, offering a unique opportunity to experience the magic of the season without breaking the bank. From sparkling lights to iconic landmarks, New York City presents several free holiday activities that will fill your heart with holiday cheer. As a bonus, Air Canada is making it easier than ever for Canadian travelers to get to NYC with convenient flight options, ensuring a smooth, stress-free journey.

Free Christmas Magic Awaits in New York City

When you think of Christmas in New York City, images of dazzling holiday decorations and festive events instantly come to mind. However, one of the best-kept secrets of the season is that much of the city’s holiday magic is completely free. Whether you’re planning to stroll through Central Park, gaze at the renowned Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, or simply take in the beautiful light displays, the holiday spirit is everywhere in New York, without the need to spend a dime.

One of the most iconic experiences during Christmas in New York is the visit to the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. This massive tree, adorned with thousands of twinkling lights and topped with a star, attracts visitors from around the world. Best of all, it’s completely free to visit. To avoid the heavy crowds, it’s best to go early in the morning or later in the evening when the tree is illuminated in all its glory.

Another festive free activity that shouldn’t be missed is the famous holiday windows along Fifth Avenue. Iconic stores such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Cartier, and Bergdorf Goodman dress up their windows with elaborate holiday displays that transport passersby into a world of holiday magic. These displays are free to enjoy and are especially stunning after sunset when the lights make the windows come alive.

No trip to New York City would be complete without a stroll through Central Park. During the winter months, the park becomes a peaceful retreat, with snow-dusted trees, frozen lakes, and serene walking paths. Take a leisurely walk through the park, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, and perhaps even stop at one of the scenic spots like Bow Bridge or Bethesda Terrace to snap a holiday photo. It’s an experience that will make you feel as though you’ve stepped into a winter fairy tale.

For a truly magical experience, take a walk around Radio City Music Hall. Even if you don’t have tickets for the famous Christmas Spectacular, the area around Radio City is worth visiting. The streets are lined with enormous holiday ornaments, candy cane displays, and glowing lights, creating an enchanting scene that embodies the essence of Christmas in the city.

The Staten Island Ferry offers one of the best free attractions in the city. This ferry ride, which takes passengers between Manhattan and Staten Island, offers spectacular views of the Statue of Liberty and the New York Harbor. It’s completely free, making it an excellent way to experience the beauty of New York’s waterfront during the holiday season. As you sail past Ellis Island, the skyline of Manhattan twinkles in the distance, offering a memorable holiday snapshot at no cost.

Air Canada: Making Your Holiday Trip to NYC Easier Than Ever

For Canadians eager to make their way to New York City this holiday season, Air Canada is the airline that will help make it happen with ease. With frequent, direct flights from major Canadian cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver, getting to New York is more convenient than ever. Air Canada has long been known for its quality service, and during the holiday season, the airline goes above and beyond to ensure passengers have a smooth and comfortable experience.

Air Canada offers a range of flight options to meet different needs and preferences. For travelers looking for the most direct route, Air Canada operates nonstop flights to New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and LaGuardia Airport (LGA), both of which are just a short distance from the city’s main attractions. Whether you’re flying out of Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL), or Vancouver International Airport (YVR), Air Canada’s reliable service ensures that you’ll arrive in the city quickly and comfortably.

Additionally, Air Canada offers flexible booking options and increased frequency of flights during peak travel times, making it easier for travelers to find a flight that fits their schedule. The airline’s economy class provides a comfortable, budget-friendly option for those who are conscious of costs, while their premium services, such as Air Canada Signature Class, offer added luxury and comfort for those looking for an elevated travel experience. Air Canada’s holiday promotions and deals also make it an affordable choice for travelers, allowing you to enjoy the holiday season without overspending on airfare.

For families traveling with children, Air Canada provides a kid-friendly experience with amenities such as entertainment options, kid’s meals, and special attention to make the journey more enjoyable for younger passengers. The airline’s staff is known for their professionalism and dedication to ensuring that all passengers, whether traveling solo or with family, have a pleasant flight.

Hospitality Industry: How NYC Hotels Are Preparing for the Holiday Rush

New York City’s hospitality industry is no stranger to the holiday season, as millions of tourists flock to the city each year to experience its Christmas magic. Hotels in Manhattan and the surrounding boroughs are fully prepared to welcome visitors during the peak holiday period. With increased demand, many hotels offer special holiday packages that include everything from cozy rooms with a festive view of the city’s holiday lights to exclusive holiday-themed amenities.

For those looking to stay in the heart of the action, hotels near iconic locations like Times Square, Central Park, and Rockefeller Center are perfect choices. Many of these hotels offer stunning views of the Christmas Tree and the surrounding holiday displays. While accommodations can be more expensive during this busy season, it’s worth booking early to secure a spot at one of the city’s top hotels.

Additionally, several hotels offer package deals that include tickets to some of the city’s most popular holiday attractions, such as the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, ice skating at Rockefeller Center, or a guided tour of the city’s famous holiday displays. These packages often include discounts on tickets, making it an excellent way for tourists to experience more of what New York has to offer while saving money on holiday attractions.

For travelers who prefer a more relaxed holiday experience, many hotels in the city’s quieter neighborhoods, like the Upper West Side or Greenwich Village, provide a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the holiday crowds. These neighborhoods offer charming boutique hotels that give visitors a more intimate and cozy feel, with easy access to the city’s top attractions via public transportation.

Many hotels are also focusing on sustainability and eco-friendly practices, offering guests a more environmentally conscious way to celebrate the holidays. From energy-efficient lighting and water-saving amenities to locally sourced food in hotel restaurants, these sustainable practices allow tourists to enjoy the holiday spirit while contributing to a greener planet.

Travel Tips for a Smooth Holiday in NYC

Planning a trip to New York City during the holiday season requires some careful preparation, especially since it’s one of the busiest times of the year. To make your visit as enjoyable and stress-free as possible, here are some helpful travel tips:

1. Book Your Flight Early – With so many people traveling to New York City during the holidays, flights tend to fill up quickly. To ensure you get the best rates and a seat on your preferred flight, it’s a good idea to book your Air Canada flight well in advance.
2. Pack Light – NYC’s subway system and walking streets can be crowded during the holidays, so packing light will make navigating the city easier. Consider bringing comfortable shoes for all the walking you’ll do while exploring the city’s holiday decorations.
3. Use Public Transportation – Avoid the hassle of finding parking in the city by relying on New York’s extensive subway and bus system. It’s affordable, easy to use, and will get you quickly to your holiday destinations.
4. Avoid Peak Crowds at Popular Attractions – Some of New York City’s most famous attractions, like the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, can get very crowded during the peak holiday season. To avoid the crowds, plan to visit these attractions early in the morning or later in the evening when fewer tourists are around.
5. Be Prepared for Winter Weather – While New York City is undoubtedly beautiful during the winter months, the weather can be cold and unpredictable. Be sure to bring warm clothing, including a good coat, gloves, and a scarf, to stay comfortable while walking around the city.
6. Take Advantage of Free Activities – Many of New York’s best holiday activities, like window shopping along Fifth Avenue or visiting the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center, are completely free. Be sure to take advantage of these opportunities to enjoy the holiday magic without breaking the bank.
7. Reserve Accommodations Early – Hotels in New York City tend to book up quickly during the holiday season, so it’s essential to secure your accommodation as early as possible. If you want to stay close to the holiday action, look for hotels near popular attractions like Central Park or Times Square.
8. Consider a Holiday Package – If you’re looking to make the most of your time in New York City, consider booking a holiday package that includes flights, accommodations, and tickets to top attractions. These packages can save you money and help you plan your trip more efficiently.

Get ready to experience the ultimate holiday magic in New York City without spending a dime! Discover how Air Canada is making your Christmas trip to NYC easier than ever, while you enjoy free festive activities that will leave you mesmerized!

Wrapping Up

New York City is undoubtedly one of the best destinations to experience the magic of the Christmas season, and Canadian travelers can make the most of their holiday visit with the ease of direct flights from Air Canada. Whether you’re taking in the free holiday magic on display throughout the city or enjoying the festive decorations at some of the world’s most famous hotels, New York offers something for everyone this holiday season. With the right planning, you can experience the best of NYC without breaking the bank, ensuring that your holiday trip is as magical as the city itself.

We have to rethink this.

The post Analyst Reveals Whether XRP Price Could Ever Fall Back to $1 appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

XRP price has struggled to move higher even as XRP exchange traded funds continue to see strong interest. This has confused many investors, especially with growing headlines around institutional demand and ETF inflows.

On Paul Barron Podcast, analyst Zach Rector said the lack of price movement is frustrating but not surprising. According to him, the market is going through a “sell-the-news” phase that often follows major ETF launches.

Why ETF Inflows Have Not Boosted XRP Price Yet

Rector explained that ETF demand has not directly pushed XRP’s public market price higher because most ETF purchases are happening over the counter, not on public exchanges.

“In November, about $803 million flowed into XRP ETFs,” Rector said. “At the same time, around $808 million worth of XRP was sold on centralized exchanges.”

Because XRP’s market price is set on public exchanges, selling pressure there has canceled out the ETF demand happening privately.

Exchange Outflows Offset ETF Buying

Rector said nearly $808 million left centralized exchanges in November as investors sold XRP for dollars or stablecoins. This selling pressure kept prices down even as ETF interest increased.

“When ETF inflows move onto exchanges, that’s when things change,” he said. “That’s when buying becomes aggressive.”

Market Cap Data Shows Strong Upside Potential

Rector pointed to past market data to explain why XRP can still move quickly when sentiment turns positive.

In November 2024, XRP’s market cap expanded by nearly $100 billion in one month due to strong inflows. In contrast, November 2025 saw a $41 billion drop in market cap due to exchange outflows.

“This shows how fast XRP can move when buyers step in,” Rector said.

Analyst Says $1 XRP Is Highly Unlikely

When asked directly whether XRP could ever fall back to $1, Rector was clear.

“Not a chance,” he said. “It would take a massive black swan event.”

He added that the market now has deep liquidity, strong passive buying, and many long-term holders waiting to buy on dips.

Strong Buying Interest Below $2

Rector said large buy orders are already stacked near current support levels.

“I have a buy order at $1.91,” he said. “If we break $1.90, we could retest $1.80, but below that is very hard.”

He pointed out that XRP has been setting higher lows all year, with key levels around $1.60 in April, $1.77 in October, and $1.81 in November.