Tiger Woods has pleaded not guilty to charges arising from his car crash in Florida last week.

The 50-year-old was released on bail after being arrested on charges of driving under the influence after clipping a truck and rolling his car on Friday. Nobody was injured.

Martin County court documents show Woods entered a written plea of not guilty via his lawyers.

It comes after a police report released earlier on Tuesday said Woods had two hydrocodone pills in his pocket as officers observed him acting "lethargic and slow" while "sweating profusely" with "extremely dilated" pupils following the crash.

The golfer, who had to crawl out of the passenger door, passed a breathalyser test but refused a urinalysis test for other drugs, according to Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek.

During an interview at the scene of the crash, Woods was "sweating profusely" and his movements were "lethargic and slow", an officer wrote in the arrest affidavit released on Tuesday.

According to the incident report, when asked if he took any prescription medication, Woods replied "I take a few", while adding he had done so earlier in the morning.

The authorities then found two white pills, which were identified as hydrocodone - an opioid used to treat pain.

Woods told authorities he was looking down at his phone while changing radio stations and did not realise the truck in front of him had slowed down before the collision.

Woods, a 15-time major winner, was kept in jail for eight hours after the incident - the minimum allowed under state law - before being released on bail.

He was also charged with property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test.

The report noted that Woods was observed "limping and stumbling", adding that the American said he had had seven back surgeries and over 20 operations on his leg. Woods underwent multiple surgeries following a serious car crash in 2021.

An officer also noted that Woods was "extremely alert and talkative" and had "hiccups during the entire investigation".

A deputy who walked Woods through a series of field sobriety tests said in the report that based on their training: "I believed that Woods' normal faculties were impaired, and he was unable to safely operate the motor vehicle."

Neither Woods nor the PGA Tour are yet to publicly comment on the arrest and charges.

Woods has been recovering from rupturing an Achilles tendon in March 2025 and back surgery in October.

Last week he competed in the TGL indoor league finals - his first competitive golf for more than a year - and had not ruled out playing in next month's Masters.

He has not competed at a major since missing the cut at The Open in July 2024.

• Will crash shake golf from its dependency on Woods?
• What now for Woods after latest arrest?

ZENICA, Bosnia and Herzegovina (AP) — Four-time champion Italy has failed to qualify for a third straight World Cup.

Cowboys, Bills, Broncos named possible landing spots for 217-game starting All-Pro defender originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Dallas Cowboys, Buffalo Bills, and Denver Broncos have been connected to a multiple-time All-Pro linebacker who is still on the free agency market.

Bobby Wagner has yet to find a new home after spending the last two seasons with the Washington Commanders, but CBS Sports' Carter Bahns believes Dallas, Buffalo, and Denver should look into signing the future Hall of Famer.

"A handful of teams could use that reliable run-stopping ability, and the intangibles Wagner also brings to the table as one of the NFL's most heralded leaders are a nice bonus," Bahns said.

Wagner has started all 17 games the past two years and is still a quality linebacker who earned second-team All-Pro honors in 2024. The veteran also tallied 162 tackles, two interceptions, and eight tackles for loss in 2025.

Dallas and Buffalo make the most sense as possible landing spots for Wagner. The Cowboys have a major hole to fill at linebacker next to DeMarvion Overshown, and Wagner would be a perfect fit.

The 35-year-old would be a fantastic mentor for Overshown, and his savvy playstyle would complement the young defender's high energy and physicality very well.

As for the Bills, the franchise needs to find a replacement for Matt Milano, and Wager could be a potential target. The 10-time Pro Bowler is a veteran leader that the Bills desperately need on defense.

Denver signed Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad to contract extensions this offseason to serve as the starters in the middle of their defense. The Broncos could look to make a splash move by bringing in Wanger, but it wouldn't make much sense.

Wagner should return as a starter for a team in 2026, and the Cowboys and Bills make a ton of sense for the Super Bowl XLVIII champion.

The NFL made a significant change to its kickoff in 2024, instituting the "dynamic kickoff" to boost the percentage of returned kicks and make one of the league's most dangerous plays safer.

The league is continuing its efforts to refine the play by tweaking its kickoff rule ahead of the 2026 NFL season.

The most notable approved rule change will allow teams to attempt an onside kick at any point during the game. In 2025, teams were only allowed to try an onside kick when trailing, so the rule change will give clubs a bit more flexibility.

NFL REFS: NFL institutes new rule to aid potential replacement officials

Despite this significant change, NFL teams will still have to declare an onside kick any time they attempt one. This is necessitated by the difference of alignment between the onside kick – which uses the NFL's traditional kickoff formation – and the NFL's dynamic kickoff, where a majority of the players from each team are lined up between the receiving team's 30- and 35-yard line.

With that in mind, surprise onside kicks – like the one Sean Payton famously dialed up to start the second half of the New Orleans Saints' Super Bowl 44 win over the Indianapolis Colts – will remain out of the sport.

It remains unclear whether the NFL's rule change will result in an uptick in overall onside kick attempts, or if the need to declare them – along with their overall lack of efficacy – will continue to limit their use.

Just five of the NFL's 52 onside kicks were recovered in 2025, according to data from The Football Database. That was good for a mark of 9.6% and up from three total recoveries and a 6% recovery rate in 2024, the first year of the NFL's dynamic kickoff.

NFL LEAGUE MEETINGS: Latest news, updates, storylines, rule changes

NFL kickoff rule changes

The onside kick rule isn't the only major kicking change the NFL's competition committee has instituted for the 2026 season. The following two rules have also been approved:

• To eliminate the kicking team’s incentive to intentionally kick the ball out of bounds when kicking off from the 50-yard line.
• To modify the kickoff alignment requirements for the receiving team players in the setup zone.

The first of these rule changes effectively closed a loophole in the 2025 kickoff rules. Last season, a team kicking off from the 50-yard line after a personal foul penalty on the receiving team would benefit more from kicking a ball out of bounds (which would place the ball on the receiving team's 25-yard line) than they would from kicking a touchback (which would place the ball at the 30-yard line).

Under the NFL's new rule, touchbacks on kicks from the 50-yard line will be brought back out to the 20, eliminating the incentive to purposely sail a ball out of bounds.

Meanwhile, the alignment modifications will simply adjust how receiving team players are allowed to line up within the setup zone. The new rule will require just five players, instead of six, to have their front foot on the setup line – though just two players will be allowed to have their foot off the line in each of the setup zone's three areas.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: NFL modifies onside kick rules, other kickoff bylaws for 2026

Tiger Woods has entered a not guilty plea in his Florida driving under the influence case, just hours after a sheriff’s report detailed his possession of pain pills and visible signs of impairment at the scene of last week’s crash.

The online court docket for Martin County, Florida, confirmed that Woods submitted a written plea of not guilty. He intends to waive his appearance at an arraignment hearing scheduled for next month.

According to the arrest report released by the Martin County Sheriff’s Office, Woods exhibited bloodshot and glassy eyes, dilated pupils, and had opioid pills in his pocket when questioned by deputies. His movements were described as slow and lethargic, and he was sweating while speaking to officers, admitting he had taken prescription medication earlier that morning.

Woods reportedly told deputies he had been distracted by his phone and adjusting the radio before his vehicle clipped a truck in front of him.

Deputies found two white pills, which were identified as the opioid hydrocodone used to treat pain, in his pocket, the report said.

When asked by a deputy if he took any prescription medications, Woods said, “I take a few.”

Woods’ agent at Excel Sports, Mark Steinberg, has not responded to multiple messages seeking comment.

The golfer was traveling at high speeds on a beachside, residential road on Jupiter Island when his Land Rover clipped the truck and rolled onto its side, according to the sheriff's office, which noted Woods showed signs of impairment.

The truck had $5,000 in damage, according to the report.

The truck driver and another person helped Woods out of his vehicle, with the golfer needing to climb out from the passenger side. Neither Woods nor the truck driver were injured.

During a field sobriety test, deputies noticed Woods limping and that he had a compression sock over his right knee. The golfer explained he had undergone seven back surgeries and over 20 leg operations and that his ankle seizes up while walking. Woods, who was hiccupping during the questioning, continuously moved his head during one of the sobriety tests and deputies had to instruct him several times to keep his head straight, the report said.

“Based on my observations of Woods, how he performed the exercises and based on my training, knowledge, and experience, I believed that Woods normal faculties were impaired, and he was unable to safely operate the motor vehicle,” the deputy wrote after the tests.

Woods, 50, is the most influential figure in golf and has become as recognizable as any athlete in the world. The first person of Black heritage to win the Masters in 1997, he has captivated golf fans with records likely never to be broken.

But his injuries kept him from accomplishing more, including those suffered in a 2021 car crash that damaged his right leg so badly he said doctors considered amputation.

At this latest crash, Woods agreed to a Breathalyzer test that showed no signs of alcohol, but he refused a urine test, authorities said. He was arrested and released on bail eight hours later.

No one from Woods’ camp or the PGA Tour -- he is on the board and is chairman of the committee reshaping the competition model -- have commented since his arrest.

Woods, who has been involved in many crashes over the years, is charged with driving under the influence with property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test. He is scheduled for arraignment April 23. Online court records do not list an attorney for him.

Under a change to Florida law last year, refusing a law enforcement officer’s request to take a breath, blood or urine test became a misdemeanor, even for a first offense.

Texas Rangers @ Baltimore Orioles

Tuesday, March 31, 2026, 5:35 PM CDT (105.3 The Fan / RSN, Victory+)

Camden Yards

RHP Jacob deGrom vs. RHP Zach Eflin

Go Rangers!

Brad Underwood gets real about Final Four opportunity ahead of Illinois-UConn rematch originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Illinois Fighting Illini are four days away from potentially clinching their spot in the national title game should they knock off the UConn Huskies in Indianapolis Saturday night at Lucas Oil Stadium.

Before getting to the doorstep of the top of college basketball, however, coach Brad Underwood fully recognizes his team deserves a chance to soak it all in.

Speaking to select reporters in Champaign Tuesday, Underwood, who has been vocal about letting his team be themselves, knew when to transition back to reality.

"I love this team," Underwood said. "I've said it all year. I think this team's ceiling was very, very high. It's nice to be rounding into really playing our best basketball. I thought we did that in Houston."

MORE:Who is in the Final Four?

The celebration of clinching a Final Four berth after beating the Iowa Hawkeyes this past Saturday, 71-59, was short-lived for about 16 hours before Underwood revealed he and his coaching staff reassembled the group to focus on the next step: win one game, then win one more.

"You have to enjoy it," Underwood said. "You have to be excited about what you've accomplished, and yet know that the job is far from done. We're taking everything day-by-day."

Underwood said he feels as connected with this team as he has with any in the past, largely because no one complains.

"I enjoy this team," Underwood said. "It makes me happy. They make me smile. They make me laugh. We've had very few miserable days or bad days of practice. This team just doesn't have them. So, yeah, to be able to extend that [opportunity to practice and play], you know, we're going into April practice. Not many teams get to do that. I'm blessed I get to do that."

Underwood sought advice from Michigan State Spartans coach Tom Izzo and Purdue Boilermakers coach Matt Painter, among others, both of whom have previous Final Four experience. Izzo's Spartans last won a national title in 2000, the Big Ten's only title in 26 years. Meanwhile, Painter's team fell to the Huskies in Arizona in 2024.

Nonetheless, though, the key takeaway is that the Final Four is "crazy," as Underwood noted from those conversations.

MORE: Iowa vs. Illinois box score

But instead of having the same feelings as Izzo and Painter, Underwood said he wants to ensure his lasting memory is his and his team's alone.

"You try to take a little bit and figure out if it works for your team or not," Underwood said.

Illinois-UConn will begin semifinal Saturday with tip scheduled for 6:09 p.m. ET on truTV and TBS, which is followed by the Michigan Wolverines-Arizona Wildcats matchup to decide the other half of Monday night's title game.

More College Basketball news:

• Illinois gets one shot to end an 80-year nightmare against UConn

• Dan Hurley stunned by brutal stat mid-press conference as UConn survives Duke in instant classic

• Keaton Wagler did something no freshman guard has done this century and it came at the perfect time

• Illinois and Arizona are more alike than you think heading into the Final Four

• Illinois Fighting Illini advance to 2026 NCAA Final Four

NFL team owners on Tuesday unanimously approved terms of a temporary, one-year stadium lease between the Jacksonville Jaguars and Florida Citrus Sports for the Jaguars to use Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, during the 2027 season.

The measure was approved during the league 2026 Annual Meeting in Phoenix, Arizona. Camping World Stadium will accordingly be designated as the Jaguars’ home stadium in 2027, when the team will be displaced due to renovation of EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville.

STATEMENTS:

Shad Khan, Team Owner, Jacksonville Jaguars

The Jaguars couldn’t ask for a better scenario than Orlando and Camping World Stadium as our temporary home in 2027. This couldn’t have happened without the endorsement of the league and team owners who approved our plan two years ago for a renovated Stadium of the Future in Downtown Jacksonville, and we’re especially appreciative of the support of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the process.

We’re also grateful to the team at Florida Citrus Sports that made this solution a reality that will benefit all, including Jaguars fans just a few hours away in Jacksonville. This is a win that everyone can celebrate.

Mark Lamping, President, Jacksonville Jaguars

Following the comprehensive evaluation of our 2027 season playing options, we are pleased that the NFL and NFL owners unanimously agree that Orlando is the location that best meets the needs of the Jaguars, our 2027 opponents, and the National Football League. This temporary relocation is a necessary and important step to facilitate the 2028 completion of Jacksonville’s Stadium of the Future.

We are deeply grateful to our fanbase for their continued support, patience, and enthusiasm during this interim period. We are also incredibly thankful for the support of Florida Citrus Sports, the City of Orlando, Orange County and other stakeholders for making this 2027 home for the Jaguars possible.

Steve Hogan, CEO, Florida Citrus Sports

We couldn’t be more excited for the opportunity to welcome the Jacksonville Jaguars and their fans to Orlando for the 2027 season. Hosting NFL regular-season football is a major milestone for our city, and we’re grateful to the Jaguars and NFL ownership for their belief in our community. Orange County and the City of Orlando have invested significant resources in our stadium campus, and the 2027 season will provide a tremendous opportunity to deliver a first-class fan experience and further elevate Orlando’s standing as a host for major sporting events.

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The Green Bay Packers have remained steadfast in their desire to protect All-Pro Micah Parsons as he attempts to return from ACL surgery, and general manager Brian Gutekunst said the team has no target date in mind with the regular season still five months away, but the NFL did modify a rule that could affect Parsons' return to the field timeline in 2026.

At the league's annual meeting, the Competition Committee approved this bylaw change notable to Parsons and the Packers: "to permit players on Reserve/Physically Unable to Perform to begin a 21-day practice period after the club's second game of the regular season."

The previous bylaw stated any player beginning the regular season on the reserve/PUP list had to miss at least the first four games before he was eligible to open the practice period and return to the playing field. The modified bylaw cuts this time period in half, allowing a player to return after missing the first two games.

Parsons, who tore his ACL on Dec. 14 and had surgery to reconstruct the ligament in late December, will likely need to miss time early in the 2026 season. If he misses training camp and starts the regular season on the PUP list, the Packers could, under the new bylaw, return him to the practice field to start Week 3 -- potentially improving his chances of playing during the season's first month.

In theory, the Packers could start Parsons on the PUP list, have him miss the first two weeks and then begin his ramp up period in Week 3.

Last year, Parsons played for the Packers in Week 1 despite missing all of training camp with the Dallas Cowboys. He was eased back into action while working through a back injury.

The Packers have several other players returning from major injuries, including tight end Tucker Kraft, defensive tackle Devonte Wyatt and right tackle Zach Tom, although those three are likely to be available at some point during training camp.

This article originally appeared on Packers Wire: NFL's modified PUP rule could affect Packers' Micah Parsons in 2026

The Las Vegas Raiders prepare to make a statement with Fernando Mendoza of the Indiana Hoosiers in the upcoming 2026 NFL draft. Following another disappointing season, the AFC West squad got the No. 1 pick in April.

Barring something extraordinary, they will go with the young quarterback. He made the case as the best in this year’s class, although some have insisted that Ty Simpson is the better prospect.

MORE: NFL pushes back Tom Brady’s sensational return to football

Amid doubts and criticism aimed at Mendoza, the Raiders want to protect him as much as possible. They reportedly want to pair him with a veteran quarterback to bridge him. New head coach Klint Kubiak told reporters at the annual league meeting on Tuesday that he would prefer to see a rookie quarterback sit and learn before throwing him to the wolves without any preparation.

“I think in a perfect world, he’s watching a mature adult go and run an offense and run the team,” Kubiak said, via NBC Sports. “But, the situation is, you might have that player, you might not have that veteran to show him the way. So he might come in and have to play immediately. But you’d rather him learn, learn before he gets in the game. You don’t always get to pick. It doesn’t work out the exact way you want it to. But at the end of the day, you want to make sure you’re bringing in an individual, drafting a guy that’s mature enough to handle some adversity — whether it’s him starting the first game or him starting the first game Year 2.

MORE: 4-time NFL MVP emerges as option for Tom Brady’s Raiders

“Sometimes they have to play from Day 1,” Kubiak later added. “It’s our job as a coach to get them ready to go. I think it does help the player, though, if they can sit behind a mature adult and watch how they run the show.”

Las Vegas has been linked with multiple veterans in recent weeks. Joe Flacco, Kirk Cousins and even Aaron Rodgers have been mentioned as potential targets for the Raiders. Additionally, the Raiders still have Aidan O’Connell on the roster.

It seems that they will be careful with Fernando Mendoza, one of the most exciting prospects in recent times.

The NFL Draft stage is officially under construction and a large crane is in place to help with the build.

The first 50 semitrucks filled with equipment were loaded over the weekend. Construction began on Tuesday.

Channel 11’s Sports Director Jenna Harner spoke with the league’s vice president of global events, Nicki Ewell, to learn more about the experiences for fans.

She said they are on schedule and that the build will go all the way until Monday or Tuesday of draft week.

When it comes to the NFL draft experience, the exhibits will be plentiful.

From Steelers Country at Point State Park, which features an autograph stage with players and legends, to the locker room and Hall of Fame exhibits, which will be on the North Shore.

When it comes to watching the first round of the draft, Vice President of global events Nicki Ewell said they’re doing something that’s never been done before.

“You can also watch the draft on Thursday night from the field. Bring a blanket; come down. Hopefully, it’s dry. Never done it before,” Ewell said.

Fans will also be able to kick a field goal on the field at Acrisure Stadium.

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There’s a pretty good chance of rain this evening in Chicago (weather forecast link below). Here’s the local radar to keep handy.

Tuesday notes…

• TWO-OUT RUNS: The Cubs scored five of their seven runs last night with two outs, raising their season total to 14 such runs, which is 56 percent of all 25 runs they have tallied. Last season, they scored 36 percent with two down, 286 of 793. Those 286 were an average of 1.77 per game. So far this year, they are averaging 3.50. (Courtesy BCB’s JohnW53)
• THAT OTHER LEAGUE: A win tonight will be the Cubs’ 300th against American League teams since interleague play began in 1997. They have lost 277, for a winning percentage of .519. Only the Dodgers have fared better in interleague play among National League teams, at .548 (326-269). The Braves (311-292) and Brewers (288-270) are tied for third, at .516. (Courtesy BCB’s JohnW53)
• CALLING ALL ANGELS: The Cubs are 17-10 all-time (since 2004) vs. the Angels, including 9-5 at Wrigley Field. They swept the Angels in Anaheim last season and took two of three games from them at Wrigley Field in July 2024.
• EARLY STATS: The Cubs are third in MLB with six steals so far in 2026. No Cub has been caught stealing yet. They rank tied for sixth in runs with 24 (three teams with 24 or more have played one more game than the Cubs have). And, they rank fifth in walks with 21 (three of the four teams ahead of them have played one more game than the Cubs have).

Cubs lineup:

Angels lineup:

Jameson Taillon, RHP vs. José Soriano, RHP

Jameson Taillon had a horrid spring: 17.55 ERA, 10 (!) home runs allowed in 13.1 innings, also nine walks. Awful.

He also had one very good outing for Canada in the WBC during that time. So, ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

In any case, I don’t expect those spring results to carry over. His last start against the Angels was Aug. 24, 2025 in Anaheim — five innings, three hits, one run (a solo homer by Taylor Ward, who isn’t on the Angels anymore), no walks.

I’m expecting something more like that.

José Soriano was the Angels Opening Day starter. I daresay he wouldn’t have had that role for most other teams. He’s good, no question, but that good?

Soriano did throw six shutout innings vs. the Astros on Opening Day, so there’s that.

His last start against the Cubs was July 7, 2024 at Wrigley Field. He allowed three runs in five innings. No current Cub has more than three at-bats against him.

Soriano’s pitch selection chart below is from his one start this year. Taillon’s is from 2025.

Here is the weather forecast for the area around Wrigley Field.

Today’s game is on Marquee Sports Network.

Here is the complete MLB.com live streaming page for today.

MLB.com Gameday

Baseball-reference.com game preview

Please visit the Angels site Crashing The Pearly Gates. If you do go there to interact with Angels fans, please be respectful, abide by their individual site rules and serve as a good representation of Cub fans in general and BCB in particular.

The 2026 game discussion procedure has been changed, so please take note.

You’ll find the game preview, like this one, posted separately on the front page two hours before game time (90 minutes for some early day games following night games).

At the same time, a StoryStream containing the preview will also post on the front page, titled “Cubs vs. (Team) (Day of week/date) game threads.” It will contain every post related to that particular game.

The Live! (formerly “First Pitch”) thread will still post at five minutes to game time. It will also post to the front page. That will be the only live game discussion thread. After the game, the recap and Heroes and Goats will also live on the front page as separate posts.

You will also be able to find the preview, Live! thread, recap and Heroes and Goats in this section link. The StoryStream for each game can also be found in that section.

Discuss amongst yourselves.

The NFL's annuel league meeting provides a rare opportunity to look into the state of a team through the eyes of their ownership and members of the front office.

The Denver Broncos are coming off an appearance in the 2025 AFC Championship game, while a lot of exciting things are happening around the team that are coming in the near future. On Monday, Broncos majority owner Greg Penner, general manager George Paton, and president Damani Leech spoke to reporters about various topics.

Penner's comments centered on the feeling of never being satisfied with what the previous season brought; it's always onto bigger and better things, including news about the Broncos' preferred stadium site at Denver's historic Burnham Yard. Paton largely spoke about the Broncos' trade for Jaylen Waddle and how it will affect roster forming going into the 2026 season. Leech spoke about the immediate future of the team, as the team transitions into their new headquarters at Dove Valley, and the possibility of being an international visiting (or home) team in the near future. Payton spoke about Nix's recovery, turning playcalling over to offensive coordinator Davis Webb and the Broncos' offseason schedule going into OTA's and minicamp.

Head coach Sean Payton spoke to media members on Tuesday.

Take a look at what all four said about the state of the team as they look into the future below.

Broncos owner Greg Penner

Broncos general manager George Paton

Broncos president Damani Leech

Broncos head coach Sean Payton

After the meetings wrap up, up next on the NFL's calendar will be the NFL draft (April 23-25).

Social: Follow Broncos Wire on Facebook and Twitter/X! Did you know: These 25 celebrities are Broncos fans.

This article originally appeared on Broncos Wire: Denver Broncos: Watch front office speak at NFL’s annual meeting

The final international break of the 2025-26 season has not been kind to Barcelona, who saw Raphinha struck down with an injury that will force him to miss much of the remainder of the campaign. Now, there have been fears of a similar case with one of their defenders, who had to be substituted during a match on Tuesday.

Xavi Espart, who has played four times for Barcelona over the last month due to Jules Kounde’s absence, has impressed since breaking into the first team fold, but there were concerns for him on Tuesday after he was forced off during Spain’s U19 Euros qualifying match against the Netherlands.

The 18-year-old had to be replaced after noticing discomfort, which has led to fears among Barcelona regarding another injury blow. However, the Spanish Football Federation has moved quickly to allay these, with Sport reporting that it has already been confirmed that the teenager is fine.

Espart is not suffering with any injury, and rather, his substitution came as a precaution. The priority was for him to return to Barcelona at 100%, and while he may be slightly off that due to the discomfort that forced him off, he should be fine to feature against Atletico Madrid this weekend, if needed.

Espart likely to be phased out over next few weeks

Espart will be in contention for minutes against Atleti, but as the weeks go on, the likelihood is that he becomes less and less prominent in the Barcelona first team. Kounde is poised to return this weekend, and the same can also be said for Eric Garcia, who is another option that Hansi Flick has at right-back.

Nevertheless, it is good news that Espart, who missed almost three months earlier in the season with a knee injury, is fine. He could still play a part for Barcelona this season, even if it is not a prominent one.

The NFL has approved a proposal to relocate the Jacksonville Jaguars to Orlando for the 2027 season.

The vote between team owners took place Tuesday in Phoenix as the team seeks a temporary home during renovations to its permanent stadium.

The Jaguars’ EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville is undergoing a $1.4 billion renovation project expected to be completed by August 2028. Construction will significantly limit capacity in 2026, forcing the team to play the entire 2027 season elsewhere.

Already a tourism hub, the addition of an NFL franchise would bring fans of the Jaguars and opponents to inject money into the Orlando economy. Early estimates suggest the move could generate $160 million in economic impact for the Orlando area.

The Jaguars usually have eight regular-season home games, most or all of which are expected to be held in Orlando.

However, the team could still play as many as three home games internationally, including one already scheduled in London.

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Matt Harmon and Scott Pianowski continue our 'Teams that will shape the draft' series by looking at the true contenders that are 'one good draft' away from winning a Super Bowl title. In this deep dive, Harmon and Pianowski check in on the Rams, Seahawks, Bills, 49ers, Chargers, Eagles and Lions and what their plans could be entering the draft.

(1:00) Contenders with better than +2000 odds to win Super Bowl

(6:30) ‘One good draft’ away contenders: Seattle Seahawks

(15:15) ‘One good draft’ away contenders: Los Angeles Rams

(25:10) ‘One good draft’ away contenders: Buffalo Bills

(32:30) ‘One good draft’ away contenders: Los Angeles Chargers

(39:45) ‘One good draft’ away contenders: San Francisco 49ers

(52:15) ‘One good draft’ away contenders: Philadelphia Eagles

(56:40) ‘One good draft’ away contenders: Detroit Lions

(1:03:05) Playoff teams with QB questions: Panthers & Texans

Jason Jung

🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTube

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

Manchester United’s transfer planning is reportedly well underway during the March international break, with various outlets providing briefs on the club’s plans to address problems in midfield. The position group is pretty bare behind Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo and the departing Casemiro. Manuel Ugarte has failed to break into the team as a reliable defensive midfield option and appears set to leave the club as well.

The priority is understandably to fill Casemiro’s vacating role and potentially find another option who can offer similar traits in a pivot.

There have been some reports linking United to a wide player as well, but with the priority being midfield, I wanted to take the opportunity to highlight some areas of the team that are lacking and could become the focus after a midfield signing is made.

Versatile Forward

The arrival of Michael Carrick has seen some of the best football from United’s three forward signings from last summer. Benjamin Sesko has eight goals in all competitions since Ruben Amorim’s departure, three under Darren Fletcher and five under Carrick, while Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha have played multiple roles in wide and central areas in the front three.

The last three months has also highlighted the lack of options behind them.

Part of the reason Sesko continues to play off the bench is that he is one of the few true options to come in and make an impact against Premier League opposition. Joshua Zirkzee is again rumored to be looking for a move back to Serie A after a campaign of mostly cheering on teammates from the bench and Patrick Dorgu’s injury at Arsenal has left United with no wide forward options behind Amad and Mbeumo. Cunha has done his part on the left well and bagged a few goals for himself, but he was put there a bit out of position due to necessity.

Should Marcus Rashford return to the side with Barcelona unable to pay his fee and wages, this would be remedied some along with Dorgu’s return to fitness, but assuming the club leadership and Rashford himself want him to make Catalonia his permanent home (which seems to be the case) there should be a willingness to pull the trigger on an opportunistic forward signing.

Right Back/Left Back

The frustration from fans with Diogo Dalot is well documented at this point, but what should be noted as well is that Noussair Mazraoui hasn’t done much to unseat the Portuguese right back. Add in the regression of Luke Shaw as an enterprising option on the left (though still a solid defender) and the Reds have a pressing need on both wings of the defense.

Part of the problem is the cost of doing business, especially if you want a proven talent. Lewis Hall, Alejandro Balde, Tino Livramento, talented players who are already spoken for by a club that can afford to pay them well. It might make more sense to look abroad, but translating success to the PL is difficult to project.

This is also a position where the demands depend greatly on how the manager wants to play football. It’s unclear as of yet whether United will stick with Carrick or bring in another manager who is set in their ways tactically.

The club has regardless been linked with some left-back options specifically. Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly is a talented technical player who has reportedly had talks exploring a move, and Antonee Robinson from Fulham and Tyrick Mitchell from Crystal Palace have also been linked.

A left-sided player is reportedly on the agenda already after midfield, but right back shouldn’t be far behind.

Difference Maker

This is certainly not a specific position, and barely a role, so apologies for the misleading title, but this is where we get less clear on a place in the XI and more into what makes someone nailed on to be somewhere in the XI every week.

Manchester United is arguably down to just one truly class difference maker in Bruno Fernandes. Arguments can be made for Casemiro given his wealth of experience and what he brings in the middle of the pitch, both in possession and scoring timely goals.

The forwards are nice, but we’re not quite there yet.

When this was a team on the rise under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, there were at least three players who could take a game over in a given season. Marcus Rashford, Bruno Fernandes, Paul Pogba, Edinson Cavani, Cristiano Ronaldo. Regardless of how some of those tenures ended, or where their games were lacking, those were players who could make something happen when United needed a spark. The squad was watered down over the last few years by aging players and several good, not great, talents.

Addressing this is much easier said than done. It makes sense to go for players entering their prime, like Mbeumo and Cunha, or set a long-term plan for young players who show tons of promise, like Mainoo or Leny Yoro, but the reality at a club like United is that they can also be found at a premium with the right economics and promise for competing at the highest level.

That part has made the big swings more difficult. Erling Haaland and Jude Bellingham chose a more stable club to grow their talents, and Eduardo Camavinga and Julian Alvarez both joined Champions League contenders to grow their game rather than a United team that was teetering at the time (and indeed since then as well).

It’s a bit of an obvious statement, but the club has to be opportunistic. Cole Palmer wants a move to his boyhood club? At least see what a deal would look like. Rodrygo unhappy being left out at Madrid? Give his agent a ring.

The star power alone isn’t what makes United, but United needs to become a star maker again if it wants to be back at the very top.

Wales could only manage a draw with Northern Ireland in their uninspiring friendly in Cardiff.

The lacklustre home side fell behind midway through the first half as Jamie Donley struck on the rebound after heading his initial effort against the post.

Wales equalised less than a minute after the restart with Sorba Thomas bundling in from David Brooks' deflected shot.

Neco Williams forced substitute Northern Ireland goalkeeper Pierce Charles into a decent save as Craig Bellamy's side improved, while the visitors' Eoin Toal saw a header superbly clawed away by Karl Darlow.

Ultimately, however, this was a fixture nobody wanted, having to take place because both teams lost their World Cup play-off semi-finals last Thursday, against Bosnia-Herzegovina and Italy respectively.

Those circumstances made for an apathetic atmosphere at Cardiff City Stadium, reflected by a lack of intensity on the field which has come to define international friendlies.

• What next for Bellamy and Wales after World Cup agony?
• Concerns raised about Blackburn boss O'Neill's dual role

Wales analysis: World Cup hangover for Bellamy's men

Neither team wanted this game but, while Northern Ireland could take heart from their defeat in Italy, Wales were bereft after losing on penalties at home to Bosnia.

Bellamy admitted he and his players were still processing the "heartbreak" of that defeat, and it showed in a jaded first-half performance.

Wales dominated possession – as they always do under their head coach – but there was no pace or penetration to their play, unsurprising perhaps given the physical and emotional toll of their efforts last Thursday.

What was less forgivable was the sloppy defending which allowed Northern Ireland to take the lead - centre-back Ben Cabango losing sight of Donley and giving him a free header. The Tottenham Hotspur forward, who is on loan at Oxford United, flicked the ball against the post before reacting quickly to convert the rebound.

Cabango did not emerge for the second half, during which his team-mates played with far more zip and purpose.

The introduction of Leeds United winger Daniel James helped, while Bournemouth's Brooks showed the value of direct running as he drove at the Northern Ireland defence and had his shot steered in by Thomas.

Wales had chances to win, from Williams' long-range strike and a stylish outside-of-the-boot effort from captain Harry Wilson.

But this was a tired team performance, fitting for an underwhelming occasion, a forgettable game from which everyone will want to move on swiftly.

Northern Ireland analysis: Travelling support rewarded

While there was also World Cup disappointment for Northern Ireland, there was not the same heartbreak that Wales had.

After all, Northern Ireland pushed one of Europe's heavyweights before coming undone in Bergamo.

The pre-match build-up had been dominated by Michael O'Neill's dual role with Northern Ireland and Blackburn Rovers, but on the pitch it was business as usual for his players in Cardiff.

Donley's opener was nothing less than the visitors deserved, especially for the 300 travelling supporters who had made their way to Cardiff despite the Irish FA's offer of a refund for those who had hoped the game would be a World Cup decider.

It was a solid defensive performance in the first half, but Northern Ireland showed more in the final third than in Bergamo as they pinned Wales back before Donley's goal at the second time of asking.

Thomas' equaliser soon after the restart, just as O'Neill had made three changes, was a sucker-punch but NI quickly settled and they were unlucky not to regain the lead as Toal produced a superb save from Darlow.

Only three starters - captain Trai Hume, Justin Devenny and Eoin Toal - played the full 90 minutes in Cardiff and there was a debut for Tom Atcheson, who plays under O'Neill at Blackburn.

O'Neill will now return to Ewood Park for the remainder of the season as he looks to keep them in the Championship, before June friendlies for Northern Ireland.

The Nations League follows in September, and while O'Neill is contracted until 2028, there is still uncertainty over his long-term future if a club offer were to arrive in the summer.

• Wales boss Bellamy to keep 'best job in the world'
• What next for Wales after World Cup woe?

N.C. State moved quickly to hire one of its own to lead the Wolfpack men's basketball program.

The school announced the hiring of Tennessee assistant coach and former Wolfpack player Justin Gainey as head coach on Tuesday. That came five days after the departure of Will Wade after one season for a second stint at LSU.

N.C. State had an agreement in place with the 49-year-old Gainey to start the week, then its board of trustees approved the deal in an emergency meeting Tuesday afternoon to make the hiring official. The school will hold its introductory news conference Wednesday for Gainey, who signed a five-year deal.

“This university helped build me as a player and as a person," Gainey said in a statement. "To now lead it as head coach is truly a full-circle moment.

“There’s a responsibility that comes with leading your alma mater, and I embrace it fully. We’re going to honor our tradition, represent this university the right way, and build a program our Wolfpack family can be proud of.”

Athletic director Boo Corrigan passed on hiring a search firm to assist on his second coaching search in as many years, promising to hire someone who “wants to be at N.C. State for a long time." Ultimately, that meant bringing in an instate native and Wolfpack guard from 1996-2000.

“Not only are we welcoming back one of our own, but we are welcoming a tough, tenacious and experienced coach who I am confident is the right fit for our program and will continue to position the Pack for success on the national stage," Corrigan said in a statement.

N.C. State also talked with Saint Louis coach Josh Schertz, who guided the Billikens to the second round of this year's NCAA Tournament. Schertz and athletic director Chris May both told local reporters that Schertz had talked with N.C. State, though Schertz posted a statement on social media Sunday saying he was returning.

Gainey served as the Volunteers’ associate head coach under Rick Barnes since the 2022-23 season, when he also took over as the team’s defensive coordinator.

Defense was a key piece of Tennessee’s run to the Elite Eight for three straight seasons, with the Volunteers ranking third, third and 14th in KenPom’s adjusted defensive efficiency metrics.

Gainey started his coaching career at N.C. State as an administrative coordinator and later as director of basketball operations. He was also an assistant at Marquette, Arizona, Santa Clara, Appalachian State and Elon.

Gainey inherits a program with tradition highlighted by winning national titles in 1974 and 1983 — the latter being the famed “Cardiac Pack” run helmed by the late Jim Valvano — as well as an unlikely to run to the Atlantic Coast Conference Tournament title followed by the Final Four just two years ago.

Still, consistent success has been tricky to maintain.

The remarkable 2024 run under Kevin Keatts marked the program’s first wins in the NCAA Tournament since a Sweet 16 appearance in 2015 under Mark Gottfried, with the Wolfpack missing five of seven tournaments and experiencing a pair of first-round exits in 2018 and 2023. Keatts was fired after the Wolfpack crashed to 12-19 following the Final Four run.

Wade’s bravado-filled arrival last year included promises of a “reckoning” for the ACC and nationally. N.C. State started 18-6 before collapsing, with a First Four loss to Texas sending the Wolfpack into the offseason with eight losses in 10 games.

Then came Wade’s abrupt departure, exactly two weeks after he proclaimed he was determined to win big with the Wolfpack amid speculation about a possible LSU return.

___

AP March Madness bracket: https://apnews.com/hub/ncaa-mens-bracket and coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/march-madness

Tiger Woods is making headlines again after an incident near his Florida home. On Friday, the golf legend crashed his SUV and was later arrested for DUI, among other related charges.

Though he has since been released from jail, the legal process is far from over, and a hearing is expected in the coming weeks. With the Masters Tournament at Augusta National approaching, could the 15-time major champion still compete? The tournament has long been one of Woods’ most successful stages, adding to the stakes. It would mark his first PGA Tour appearance since the 2024 Open Championship.

Here’s a closer look at what police reports show — and what legal experts say it could mean for his future.

The crash

The crash happened around 2 p.m. Friday in Jupiter Island, Florida, when Woods tried to pass a pickup truck pulling a trailer at the last minute. According to the affidavit, he crossed over a double solid line into oncoming traffic, struck the trailer, and lost control of his SUV, which flipped onto its side.

The driver — identified as 43-year-old Jeromy Bullard — told authorities he had begun making a turn when he looked in his mirror and saw Woods traveling “at high speeds,” according to the sheriff’s office.

No one was injured, but the crash caused about $5,000 in damage to the trailer. Woods was subsequently charged with driving under the influence, property damage, and refusal to submit to a urine test, and was released on bail about eight hours later.

This isn’t the first time Woods has faced scrutiny for his actions behind the wheel. He was cited for careless driving in 2009 after hitting a fire hydrant and a tree outside his Florida home. In 2017, he pleaded guilty to reckless driving following a DUI arrest involving prescription drugs. In 2021, he was hospitalized after a serious rollover crash in Los Angeles County that investigators ruled an accident.

Despite that history, he has reportedly resisted hiring a driver. An unnamed source told PEOPLE he “doesn’t want anyone to watch over him or know what he is doing.”

Tiger Woods' signs of impairment

According to the police report, Woods was “sweating profusely” while being questioned in the back seat of a patrol car, despite the air conditioning. He told deputies he had been driving from his residence and didn’t realize the vehicle ahead had slowed because he was looking down at his cellphone.

Officers said they observed “several signs of impairment” during the interaction, prompting a DUI investigation. When Woods removed his sunglasses and hat, deputies noted his eyes appeared bloodshot and glassy.

Woods said he had not consumed alcohol — consistent with a breathalyzer test that showed none in his system — but told officers he had taken “a few” prescription medications earlier that day.

He also said he has limitations, including seven back surgeries and more than 20 operations on his leg, and was wearing a compression sleeve over his right knee. During field sobriety exercises, which were adjusted to accommodate those limitations, Woods made multiple errors, including “limping and stumbling to the right” during one test, according to the affidavit.

After he was placed under arrest, deputies searched him and found two white pills in his pocket with markings indicating they were hydrocodone, an opioid used to treat chronic pain.

Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek told reporters that Woods was cooperative after the crash but “chose his words carefully” when speaking with investigators and declined a urine test that could have helped determine whether any substances were in his system. Woods had the right to refuse, but doing so led to an additional charge under Florida law. 

“We will never get definitive results about what he was impaired on at the time of the crash,” Budensiek said.

What’s next

Woods is expected to face a court hearing in April, though he’s not required to attend in person.

From a legal standpoint, experts say the case will hinge on what deputies observed at the scene. Even without a urine test, Florida defense attorney David Hill told the Associated Press that prosecutors can build a DUI case using officer testimony, body camera footage, and field sobriety results.

At the same time, some analysts say the lack of toxicology evidence — combined with Woods’ 0.00 breathalyzer and documented medical history — could complicate efforts to secure a conviction. “Seems like they have no case, no DUI case. Period, full stop,” Florida defense attorney Robert Reiff told Yahoo Sports.

Beyond the courtroom, questions remain about his return to golf. The hearing is expected after the Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia, which runs April 6 through 12. And that timing could prove critical — leaving open the possibility that Woods competes even as the legal case unfolds.

Earlier this month, the 50-year-old said he was trying to get into shape to compete in the Masters, and he was days away from deciding whether to serve as the U.S.’s Ryder Cup captain for the 2027 matches in Ireland. Adding even more uncertainty is the fact that there is technically no deadline to enter the Masters, although it's common courtesy for players to notify the Augusta National Golf Club of their participation in advance.

Even if he wasn't going to play, Woods was expected to be in Augusta during the tournament, according to The Athletic. He was supposed to be at the Champions Dinner and appear at the opening of The Patch, a recently renovated 18-hole course at the Augusta Municipal Golf Course, which includes a new 9-hole short course designed by Woods and his design firm.

For now we'll have to wait and see how things unfold — as The Athleticnotes, the Masters doesn't have an official set of character rules, but throughout its history players have opted out while they dealt with personal problems or public controversies.

The post What's Next for Tiger Woods appeared first on Katie Couric Media.

Giants select ideal Malik Nabers running mate in latest mock draft originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The New York Giants, for the first time in quite a while, will enter an NFL season with hope and optimism.

With John Harbaugh, the new head coach, and a nucleus of offensive players that feel poised to take the next step in Jaxson Dart, Malik Nabers, and Cam Skattebo, New York has good vibes.

And they might get even better after the NFL Draft.

With the Giants holding the fifth overall pick, another bona fide starter should be taken. But who?

NFL.com's Lance Zierlein, in his latest mock, has the Giants getting the ideal running mate for Nabers, and that's Ohio State's Carnell Tate.

"The Giants, who have just two top-100 selections, pair Tate with Malik Nabers to give Jaxson Dart a formidable duo to grow with in the passing game," Zierlein wrote.

More: Vikings QB predicted to follow Super Bowl champion path

Giants poised for NFC climb in 2026?

You could make that case, especially if we just take the internal development of Dart, Nabers, Skattebo, and others. New York feels poised to be a tougher proposition in 2026. 

Of course, this is all a prediction, and the Giants could very well stumble out of the game, and a "here we go again" feeling permeates across MetLife Stadium.

But there is reason to be bullish about the Giants beginning the climb, and it centers on Dart, who is entering his second season, a time when players usually see a big uptick in performance.

If that can happen, with Skattebo being the battering ram he is and Nabers staying healthy, the Giants could be something in 2026. 

Exactly what is that? Your guess is as good as mine.

More NFL news:

• Bills urged to sign WR from AFC rivals in free agency
• Analyst urges Broncos to sign 6-time All-Pro star
• 49ers maintain hard stance on star WR
• Giants open to bringing back Super Bowl-winning WR
• Rams' Sean McVay makes startling QB revelation
• Eagles still coy on A.J. Brown's future
• Ravens urged to sign key free agent for Lamar Jackson

In a recent report, Fichajes stated that Arsenal are leading the race for Real Madrid playmaker Brahim Diaz. It is believed that the Gunners are ready to move in for the Morocco international in the upcoming transfer window.

Diaz’s Good Run Of Form In Spain

Diaz has enjoyed a decent campaign at the Madrid club as he has put in a string of impressive displays for them in the final third. The 26-year-old has found the back of the net once and picked up six assists in 31 matches for Los Blancos this season on all fronts.

The Moroccan talent is currently among the most talented wide players in La Liga. Thus, the Gunners would do well to lure him to the Emirates Stadium this summer.

His current contract at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium will run out at the end of next season, which could open the door for Arsenal to sign him on the cheap this off-season.

MADRID, SPAIN – MARCH 27: Brahim Diaz of Morocco in action during an international friendly match between Morocco and Ecuador on March 27, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Will Diaz Be A Good Choice For Arsenal Boss Mikel Arteta?

Diaz can strike the ball with venom from long range and has got the eye to play some decisive passes on the offensive end of the field. He is a good dribbler with the ball at his feet and can chip in by picking up his fair share of assists from the wide areas.

The Morocco international is primarily a right-sided wide player but can also function as a left-winger or as a centre-forward if told to do so. He already knows the Premier League well from his time at Manchester City and won’t take much time to adjust to life at Arsenal if they can find a way to bring him on board later this year.

Diaz would undoubtedly enhance the quality of Mikel Arteta’s frontline. He has what it takes to fight for a regular first-team spot at the North London club in the coming seasons.

At 26, Diaz has his peak years ahead of him, which makes him a good choice for the Gunners to pursue this summer. He might even help Arsenal challenge for some major honours over the next few years. Therefore, Arteta would be wise to go all out to bring Diaz to the Emirates Stadium in the upcoming transfer window.

If the Baltimore Ravens were hoping to quiet speculation surrounding Nnamdi Madubuike, their most recent update didn't accomplish that. In fact, it may have done the opposite. Since suffering a season-ending neck injury early in 2025, the two-time Pro Bowler's status has remained one of the most puzzling storylines in Baltimore. Updates have been rare, timelines nonexistent, and every public comment has felt carefully measured, if not intentionally vague.

There have been reasons to be encouraged. He once promised good news, and then there was the workout video that had everyone pumped. But, a true update or timetable for return? No dice. That trend continued at the NFL's annual league meetings. Head coach Jesse Minter offered some encouragement, noting that Madubuike is in a “great place mentally” and continuing his recovery. But beyond that, there was little tangible information. No timetable. No clear expectation. Just more uncertainty.

Jesse Minter shares that Nnamdi Madubuike is in a great place mentally but cautioned that his return is still to be determined.

He went on to say that he's seen Nnamdi's workout videos, but would leave it up to Madubuike to comment. pic.twitter.com/mVwUUjBuAC

— Nic Mason (@British_Raven19) March 31, 2026

And at this stage of the offseason, that matters.

Madubuike isn't just another player working his way back. At his best, he's been a cornerstone of Baltimore's defensive front, a disruptive force capable of collapsing pockets and creating opportunities for everyone around him. His production in recent seasons has made him one of the most important pieces of the unit. That's what makes this situation so delicate.

The Ravens are approaching a critical stretch with the NFL Draft looming, and decisions need to be made. If Madubuike is expected to return and play at a high level, it could alter how aggressively Baltimore targets early defensive line help. If not, the urgency to find a replacement increases significantly. Right now, they’re operating somewhere in between, and that isn't ideal. At some point, clarity will have to replace caution. Baltimore can’t build a defensive identity on uncertainty, especially at a position that has already shown signs of regression.

Until then, every update, no matter how optimistic, will feel incomplete. Because when it comes to Madubuike’s future, the Ravens still don’t have the one thing they need most. An answer... That's the one thing that everyone seems to be looking for.

This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Ravens coach offers a vague update on Nnamdi Madubuike’s return

Consistency is key.

The New England Patriots need it, as does every other team in the NFL. The Patriots are proud of a particular addition that they made in free agency this offseason to foster more of that success within their ranks. Equally so, New England has high hopes that their slot receiver, DeMario Douglas, will be able to play up to that standard with a bigger workload next season.

Patriots coach Mike Vrabel lionized Romeo Doubs’ consistency as being a major reason why the team signed him in free agency, while also expressing the team’s desire for Douglas to play more in 2026 at the annual league meeting on Tuesday.

“Certainly, we targeted Romeo [Doubs]. With the consistency that he’s had and shown in his first four years in the NFL. I think he's gotten better," said Vrabel. "I think he's improved each and every year. ...I think Pop [Douglas] is a player that’s gonna really continue to grow and develop, and we have to find ways to get him the ball.

"Kyle [Williams], really excited. Talked about him just improving his play strength, and that’s something that he’s trying to focus on here in the offseason. We know what his speed is and his release skills. We saw him go and track the ball down the field. There’s a lot of guys that we’re excited about.”

Doubs caught 55 receptions for 724 yards and six touchdowns in 2025 as a member of the Green Bay Packers. The Nevada product recorded 50 or more receiving yards in eight of the 17 games that he played last season, consistent with his average of 45.3 receiving yards per game. He also posted a catch rate of 64.7 percent on the year, while dropping only three passes for Green Bay.

As for Douglas, he went for 447 receiving yards on just 31 receptions in 2025. His 14.4 yards per reception were reflective of his ability to extend the field in New England’s offense. Douglas was exceptional as a scoring threat early in games throughout the year. Those traits suggest that he is capable of playing effectively with more snaps, as well as targets in 2026.

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This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: Patriots coach Mike Vrabel shares honest outlook on WR unit in 2026

Golf fans will have no shortage of viewing options for the Masters, and that goes beyond the 27 hours of live coverage (streaming and linear) among Prime Video, ESPN, Paramount+ and CBS.

CBS, in its 71st year covering the Masters, will have a pair of one-hour shows ahead of the final round on April 12. One will look back 40 years at Jack Nicklaus charging to his sixth green jacket at age 46. The other is Jim Nantz sitting down with Rory McIlroy at Pebble Beach in February to revisit McIlroy's thrill-a-minute victory last year.

Augusta National announced last week that Prime Video, in addition to two hours of streaming on the weekdays leading into ESPN coverage, will have a stats-driven program dedicated to Amen Corner.

Nicklaus is scheduled to join the Prime coverage for the opening round, with Terry Gannon as the host. The Amen Corner stream on Prime will be hosted by Justin Kutcher with analysts that include 2006 U.S. Open champion Geoff Ogilvy and NBC regulars Smylie Kaufman and John Wood.

Nantz recalled days of a shorter window on network TV and how much it has grown.

“I think it’s an amazing undertaking what we’re doing now with all those different sources,” Nantz said Monday. “The amount of programming is amazing. The every shot, every hole. It is a massive undertaking, and I’m really proud of the people as time has marched on how they’ve been able to pull this off and do it so seamlessly.”

David Berson, the CEO and president of CBS Sports, was quick to point out that for all the feeds, millions still come together on the main feed Sunday afternoon to watch the final round unfold. He said last year's Masters peaked at nearly 20 million viewers.

“We like providing it for everyone,” Berson said. “And despite all these different feeds, it’s so nice that we can bring everyone together for the main coverage like we do, and I love that it’s being so widely recognized.”

The silence

Four days after Tiger Woods was jailed in Florida for not giving a urine test after his car crash, there has been no word from him or anyone in his camp, save for a written plea of not guilty that he entered.

This is the fourth incident involving a car crash with Woods, and his response has varied.

A message by his team was posted to his website the day after his harrowing crash outside Los Angeles in February 2021 explaining the injuries and the long road ahead to recovery.

When he was arrested for DUI in Florida in 2017, Woods sent out a statement that night to explain an “unexpected reaction” to prescription medicine and to take full responsibility.

And in 2009, when his SUV crashed into a fire hydrant outside his Florida home, leading to revelations of extramarital affairs, his first statement came three days later, but only to announce he would not play in the Target World Challenge. It was five days before he put out a statement acknowledging a single-car accident that he said was “embarrassing to me and my family.”

Masters prep

Scottie Scheffler intended to play the Houston Open until he withdrew early in the week to return to Dallas for the impending birth of his second child.

Rory McIlroy usually plays in Texas leading up to the Masters — Houston, San Antonio or when Match Play in Austin was on the schedule — but chose not to play since The Players Championship.

That means three weeks off for the world's top two players, both of them perhaps trying to end a curious streak. The last Masters champion who was off three weeks leading to Augusta National was Adam Scott in 2013.

The tee flip that didn’t happen

One of the bizarre moments in the aftermath of Rory McIlroy winning the Masters last year is when Bryson DeChambeau said, “Didn’t talk to me once all day.”

Turns out there was one brief conversation.

McIlroy shared a remarkable tale in the documentary “Rory McIlroy: The Masters Wait” that began airing Monday on Prime Video and revealed a scene at Augusta National that had not previously been told.

McIlroy was three shots ahead when both hit it close on the par-4 ninth, leading to a question of who was away.

“I thought it very clearly was my putt. I thought his ball was slightly closer than mine,” McIlroy says in the film. “We sort of look at each other, and I’m like, ‘Well I think it’s me to go.’ And he’s like, ‘Well I think it’s me to go.’”

McIlroy felt it was like match play, a big advantage to whoever was first to hole the birdie putt. But what followed surprised him.

“He goes, ‘Well why don’t we just throw a tee up for it to see who goes first?’” McIlroy said. “And I’m like, ‘No.’ This is the final round of the Masters. This isn’t some game on a Tuesday afternoon somewhere."

McIlroy suggested a nearby rules official decide, and DeChambeau gave in by saying: “No, no. It’s fine. You can go anyway. I don’t care.”

McIlroy made it, DeChambeau missed and three holes later he was seven shots behind and out of it.

“I wasn’t going to wilt in that situation,” McIlroy said. “I was just going to stand firm.”

Snedeker keeping busy

Brandt Snedeker is making his sixth start of the season this week in the Texas Open, giving the U.S. captain for the Presidents Cup plenty of opportunities to see players he might want for his team in September at Medinah.

Jim Furyk didn't play on the PGA Tour in 2024 when he was captain at Royal Montreal. Davis Love III played five times during his year as captain in 2022. The most any U.S. captain played the year of a Presidents Cup was Tiger Woods (14) in 2019, but he played on the team.

International captain Geoff Ogilvy, meanwhile, hasn't been able to get a sponsor exemption to play this year. The fields are smaller and competition is greater than ever. Does it matter?

“I don't know how vital it is that he has to play as a captain — I don't mean just Geoff, any captain,” said Adam Scott, who has played in every Presidents Cup since 2003. "It is important the captain is out and about and being seen throughout the year. Certainly there will be a couple of players Geoff is going to have choose that he might not know well.

“If you can play, it's a bonus,” Scott said. “But exemptions are hard to come by these days.”

The Plus-4 with Koepka playing Zurich

Brooks Koepka plans to play the Zurich Classic of New Orleans with Shane Lowry, and four more players will get an opportunity they otherwise wouldn’t have.

Part of the deal that allowed Koepka to return from LIV Golf was that when he is added to the field, two additional players get in to keep a balance in the tee times. The Zurich Classic is the only team event on the PGA Tour.

That will put the Zurich Classic field at 74 teams (148 players). As long as Koepka doesn’t withdraw before 5 p.m. Friday, the next two players in line will be notified so they can choose a partner. The Friday deadline is only for the team event.

The Zurich Classic would be fifth time Koepka plays to the benefit of at least two players (he was eligible on his own for The Players Championship and the Masters). Seamus Power got in twice and picked up 28 FedEx Cup points, making him at the moment 25 spots higher at No. 89.

Divots

The Desert Sun reported that The American Express in La Quinta, California, has a spot on the 2027 schedule. The tournament's website Monday afternoon showed it scheduled for Jan. 24-27. Scottie Scheffler is the defending champion. ... Carson Herron, the son of Tim Herron, is among those playing in the International Series Japan on the Asian Tour this week. ... Royal Porthcawl in Wales has been selected to host the 2027 Senior British Open.

Stat of the week

Hyo Joo Kim won two straight weeks with Nelly Korda as the runner-up. The last time that happened on the LPGA Tour was in 2001 when Annika Sorenstam won back-to-back weeks in Arizona with Se Ri Pak the runner-up in both events.

Final word

“She runs the ship. If she goes down, the whole ship goes down. I wouldn't be where I am before all this without her, and I’m definitely not sitting here today without her.” — Gary Woodland on his wife, Gabby, during his recovery from brain surgery with three kids at home.

___

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

Liverpool captain Virgil Van Dijk and Arne Slot favorite Cody Gakpo both featured for the opening 45 minutes in a disappointing 1-1 draw with Eindhoven, as the Dutch played with 10 men following a twelfth minute yellow card. Jeremie Frimpong came on for the second half, but was taken off mere minutes later — there was no evidence of an injury but the substitution was certainly a question mark. Ryan Gravenberch did not feature in the friendly.

Liverpool vice captain Andy Robertson scouted out Everton’s Hill Dickinson stadium in a friendly loss to Ivory Coast, who narrowly beat Scotland 1-0. Robertson played the full match, and was one of Scotland’s better performers.

Hungary drew 0-0 in another friendly, with both Miloš Kerkez and Dominik Szoboszlai playing for the full 90 minutes against Greece in Budapest. Kostas Tsimikas, who is still on Liverpool’s books while away on loan, played against Liverpool’s current left back.

At the youth level both Rio Ngumoha and Trey Nyoni featured in England U19’s first qualifying match ahead of the U19 Euros, beating Portugal 6-0. Given the glut of goals, Ngumoha will be gutted not to find himself on the scoresheet.

Southend 2-1 Yeovil

Keenan Appiah-Forson headed an 84th-minute winner as Southend boosted their play-off push in the National League with a 2-1 victory over Yeovil at Roots Hall.

Shrimpers captain Gus Scott-Morriss opened the scoring inside four minutes, smashing home on the rebound from a tight angle after Appiah-Forson's header was saved by Glovers goalkeeper Jed Ward.

Yeovil equalised in the 64th minute when Jake Wannell curled a fine first-time finish into the far corner from the right-hand side of the 18-yard box.

Defender James Golding rattled a post from distance as seventh-placed Southend threatened to regain the lead before Appiah-Forson nodded in an assist from substitute Sam Austin to earn the hosts a first win in three league games.

Match report supplied by PA Media.

Wealdstone 7-0 Hartlepool

Micah Obiero scored a first-half hat-trick as Wealdstone flipped the form book on its head to secure a resounding 7-0 win over Hartlepool at Grosvenor Vale.

The Stones had lost their last three in the National League while their opponents had won their last three, but Obiero put the out-of-form hosts ahead in the fourth minute from an acute angle.

Dylan Kadji finished from Anthony Georgiou's cross moments later before Obiero struck twice in quick succession, notching a rebound in the 22nd minute then getting his treble by getting in behind, rounding Nick Hayes and slotting into an empty net.

Wealdstone had never beaten Hartlepool in seven previous attempts but they were five up before the break as Georgiou reacted quickest after Hayes could only parry Nathan Tshikuna's initial shot.

Captain Enzio Boldewijn's deflected shot poured more misery on Pools in the 70th minute and Wealdstone were in seventh heaven when substitute Olufela Olomola ricocheted off a defender and past Hayes.

Match report supplied by PA Media.

Woking 1-1 Altrincham

Altrincham held on for a 1-1 draw in their mid-table National League clash at Woking, despite finishing the game with nine men.

On-loan Fulham forward Olly Sanderson struck the post for Woking in the seventh minute, under the interim leadership of Craig Ross and Jake Hyde ahead of the arrival of new manager Jermain Defoe.

However, it was the visitors who opened the scoring six minutes later through Tylor Golden's curling finish.

Altrincham had Sam Barnes dismissed soon after and, after Woking's Joe Gbode had found the side netting in the 64th minute, the hosts levelled eight minutes from time through Jamie Andrews.

The visitors were down to nine when Kahrel Reddin was dismissed for a stamp on Matt Ward with a minute remaining but they held on for a point which keeps them six points behind the Cards, who move up a place to 10th.

Match report supplied by PA Media.

For the first time since the failed Maxx Crosby trade, Las Vegas Raiders general manager John Spytek and head coach Klint Kubiak addressed the fallout publicly — and both sounded like men who came out the other side just fine.

At the NFL’s annual league meetings in Phoenix this week, the two spoke candidly about the five-time Pro Bowl defensive end and what the chaotic sequence of events at the start of free agency ultimately meant for the franchise.

Also Read:: Las Vegas Raiders Switch to 3-4 Defense: What Rob Leonard’s Scheme Change Means for the 2026 Roster

Las Vegas Raiders GM gets an ‘elite’ piece during free agency

Earlier this month, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on March 6 that a trade was in place sending Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens in exchange for two first-round draft picks. The deal required the new league year to begin on March 11 before it could be made official. But before that could happen, Baltimore backed out — citing concerns about Crosby’s surgically repaired knee — and the pass rusher returned to the Silver and Black.

The timing of that reversal, Spytek said, didn’t disrupt the team’s offseason plan as much as it might seem.

“Just from the timing of it, it really didn’t,” Spytek said. “We did what we did on Monday, and that was Tuesday when it all happened. We had a lot of cap space and a lot of cash made available to us from Mark [Davis] and the ownership group to be aggressive and build the team the best way possible. I’ll echo what Klint said — it was like we got another elite defensive end in free agency the way it worked out.”

Those signings — most notably center Tyler Linderbaum and edge rusher Kwity Paye — came during the legal tampering window, just before the Ravens pulled the plug.

The evolution of a General Manager

Crosby has watched a parade of general managers and head coaches cycle through the organization since being drafted in 2019. Spytek, who has worked to build trust with his star player from the start, said the communication between them has never stopped.

“I’ve had many great conversations with Maxx from the start of my tenure here, and we had many throughout the season,” Spytek said. “We had one right at the end of the season, which everyone knows about. We talked about it in the months leading up to the deal. Maxx and I have continued to have great conversations since then. I know he and Klint have had great conversations, too. We just try to tell each other the truth and not have a lot of mystery or unknowns. Maxx, Klint and I will continue to operate that way.”

Spytek also spoke about the weight of those difficult roster decisions — the ones that affect players beyond the football field.

“Those are all challenging conversations,” Spytek said. “I try to sit in that moment with that person and explain the reasons why we’re doing it, and try to be as honest and forthright as I can. To me, they’re all deep personal conversations because you know how deeply it affects that person. I don’t view them as just a player. This is altering their life.”

Also read: Mark Davis Isn’t Selling the Raiders So Stop Acting Like He Is

Kubiak: “Our team just got better”

Kubiak came to Las Vegas after helping Seattle win the Super Bowl last month, which left him a compressed timeline to assemble his coaching staff — all while watching this trade saga unfold in real time.

He didn’t hide how he felt when Spytek told him the deal was dead.

“Anytime there’s a trade, you always know it could go down that way,” Kubiak said. “Once it happened, I was really excited. When Spy came and talked to me about it, we sat down and my first thing was a smile. ‘Oh, we have Maxx back. You kidding me? That’s great.’ Our team just got better.”

With Paye signed, Malcolm Koonce retained, and Tyree Wilson still in the fold, Las Vegas enters 2026 with legitimate depth along the defensive line. Crosby’s return only strengthens what was already shaping up as a priority area.

The one remaining question is whether Crosby will be on a snap count when the regular season opens. He underwent meniscus surgery in January and is not expected to be fully cleared until this summer.

“Those are things we have to work through,” Kubiak said. “We’ve got to get him healthy enough to practice. I know he’s going to put himself in great position to do that, and there probably will be a conversation about that as we go. Taking the baby steps right now.”

The coach didn’t seem worried about the timeline. He’s seen how Crosby works.

“Maxx is our guy. He’s the leader on defense.”

Also read: Las Vegas Raiders: 5 Second Round Pick Options for GM John Spytek

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• Las Vegas Raiders Advised to Add Pro Bowl QB as Bridge Starter to Mendoza
• Las Vegas Raiders Mourn the Tragic Loss of Star From Super Bowl Team

Yesterday the Mariners’ Double-A affiliate, the Arkansas Travelers, announced their 2026 roster, highlighted by the inclusion of the Mariners’ two top pitching prospects, Kade Anderson and Ryan Sloan. That unfortunately doesn’t leave a lot of frontline starter talent for High-A Everett, but the AquaSox will still boast five of Seattle’s Pipeline Top 30 prospects, and three of the top ten.

OF Jonny Farmelo (#6) returns to Everett after battling an ACL tear in 2024 and a related stress reaction in his ribs in 2025, both of which curtailed his plate appearances in his first two professional seasons. Farmelo got a long look with the big-league club this spring, making up for some of those lost plate appearances, and showcased his top-of-the-scale speed at times, motoring around the bases and showing why he has the nickname “Jonny Ferrari.” Farmelo has a solid sense of the zone, running double-digit walk rates anywhere he’s played, and immense raw power, but needs to work on his bat to ball skills.

Another Mariners prospect who has dealt with health issues in his young career is SS Felnin Celesten (#7), who also returns to Everett. Like Farmelo, his primary goal will be staying on the field consistently, and to continue refining his approach in the box: the switch-hitter’s strikeout rate spiked to over a third in his brief time at Everett last year, and the raw power he flashed at times in the California League got swallowed up in the heavy upper-Northwest air. Celesten has made improvements in his fielding and now looks like someone who could stick at short full-time; he’s not immune to making a blunder at the six, but this spring he was reliably making the routine plays and black diamond-level ones.

MLB Pipeline’s #8 prospect for the Mariners will also join Everett, this one a newcomer in catcher Luke Stevenson. Stevenson is young for a college player, just 21, but has experience commanding a staff and could be a quick mover, especially if the team wants to reunite him with Anderson and Sloan in Double-A. The problem is there are still lingering questions over what kind of player Stevenson will be, as the soft-spoken, painfully earnest catcher is weirdly a divisive prospect among scouts. Some scouts see a whiff-prone average defensive catcher who sells out for power, and others see a potential power/defense threat at a premium position reminiscent of a young Cal Raleigh (it’s me I’m others). Similar to Raleigh, Stevenson tore up the Cal League, although at a lower level now; this year he’ll have a chance to try to match Raleigh’s otherworldly numbers at High-A, and shift the national conversation around his prospect potential, much like Cal did in 2019.

Other Pipeline Top-30 prospects at Everett include OF Carlos Jimenez (#21) and RHP Lucas Kelly (#29). Jimenez makes his High-A debut after being with Modesto the past two years. Kelly, a sidearm reliever drafted in 2025, is well-known to AquaSox fans, punching out a hitter for the final out of Everett’s championship-winning Game 4 against the Eugene Emeralds. The ASU product only pitched in a half-dozen games in Everett, so he returns to the AquaSox, but could be a quick mover so long as he keeps pounding the zone.

Here’s the complete roster:

Post-hype prospect to watch: RHP Walter Ford

It sucks to put one of the Mariners’ own post-hype prospects here rather than a reclamation project from another org, but sadly, Ford’s career hasn’t taken off yet after he was drafted with some fanfare in the competitive balance rounds in 2022. The stuff just hasn’t really taken off, and while he commands the zone well, the upside is starting to look much lower than it did. But hey, maybe now that he’s the only prospect in the system named Ford he’ll get some Highlander, there-can-be-only-one power back.

Will be ranked on the Top 30 before the end of the year: Christian Little

He didn’t have very long at Everett last season, but we at the site are buyers of the former pre-draft hype prospect. Little has the pedigree, the size, and the stuff, and this year will be huge for his development. Read John’s prospect writeup on him and get yourself out to Everett to see him and judge for yourself.

Sleeper prospect: RHP Casey Hintz

This is cheating because Hintz has been talked up by everyone from Justin Toole to Justin Hollander this spring, but witness him anyway: the former Arizona sidearmer is exactly the kind of prospect who moves quickly through this system. If he’s throwing strikes, expect to see him in Arkansas soon.

Carla Berube still remembers the comment from legendary UConn coach Geno Auriemma.

You couldn’t guard a chair.

It was her freshman year with the Huskies in 1993-94. The remark has stuck with her all these years.

“That really inspired me to get better and really embrace that side of the basketball,” Berube said. “And now I love it and I think that’s how you win championships.”

A year later, Berube helped UConn win its first of 12 NCAA national championships. Nearly a decade later, she became a head coach at Division III Tufts University. In 2019, she made the jump to Division I to lead a Princeton women’s basketball program that has become an Ivy League powerhouse.

Now, Berube embarks on her newest challenge as the coach at Northwestern. She takes over for Joe McKeown, who retired after 18 seasons at Northwestern and 40 seasons as a Division I coach — including stints at New Mexico State and George Washington.

Northwestern athletic director Mark Jackson introduced Berube as the program’s next head coach at a news conference Tuesday at Welsh-Ryan Arena, calling her a “fierce, relentless competitor.”

Berube inherits a program that reached the NCAA Tournament twice under McKeown — and certainly would’ve added a third appearance if the 2020 tournament hadn’t been canceled — but has struggled through four consecutive losing seasons.

McKeown announced his decision to retire a year ago before coaching through the 2025-26 season. That gave Jackson and the athletic department ample time to consider what to prioritize in a new coach.

“Beyond the culture and the commitment to our mission, we wanted a winner, a proven winner with established NCAA Tournament success in bringing us back to where we belong, competing for a Big Ten championship,” Jackson said.

Burube has seen winning.

In seven years leading the Princeton program, her teams went 147-29 with five consecutive NCAA tournament appearances and two trips to the second round. Her teams won the Ivy League regular-season title five times, including in 2019-20 when the postseason was canceled due to COVID-19. The Ivy League also canceled the 2020-21 season. Prior to Princeton, her teams at Division III Tufts went 384-96 during 17 seasons.

“I love to win and I’m lucky enough to be doing that a lot, so I think we can do it here,” Berube said.

All that winning made Berube a popular name in the coaching carousel in recent years. She had the Princeton program poised to compete for NCAA Tournament appearances year after year.

So why was now the right time to make the jump to a program in a major conference?

“It more so was about the place,” Berube said. “I wasn’t leaving Princeton for a place I didn’t believe in and that my values weren’t aligned with. And that’s when Northwestern came to light and (I) had really great conversations with Mark. It just felt right and it felt like the right time.”

For Northwestern, one of two private schools in the Big Ten, Berube’s proven ability to win at a place with high academic standards must have been appealing.

But the Ivy League and the Big Ten are two different environments in the ever-changing landscape of Division I athletics. The transfer portal likely will have to play a major role in Berube’s roster-building efforts in the Big Ten. That wasn’t the case in the Ivy League.

Jackson said Berube’s willingness to embrace a challenge was perhaps the most important quality he saw in her.

“We’re not shying away from all the industry changes that are in front of us now, and we know what those are,” Jackson said, alluding to the transfer portal and NIL. “But we wanted somebody that could understand being at an elite academic institution.”

It will be a major rebuild for a Northwestern program that went 8-21 last season and 2-16 in Big Ten play.

Berube already hired longtime Princeton assistant Lauren Dillon to be her associate head coach at Northwestern. She will also be taking inspiration from within the athletic department. Berube’s excited to work alongside field hockey coach Tracey Fuchs and lacrosse coach Kelly Amonte Hiller, both of whom have won multiple national titles.

Berube said she plans on picking their brains about winning at the highest level and doing it at Northwestern. Jackson noted that Fuchs gave the Berube hire “three thumbs up.”

There will be much work to do, but asked point-blank if she thinks her team can compete for a spot in the NCAA tournament next season, Berube responded with an emphatic, “Yes.”

“You will see that we will compete for every single second on this court,” she said as she spoke at a podium atop the court at Welsh-Ryan Arena. “It’s going to be hard-nosed, toughness, grittiness, just competing every single possession to win that possession on both ends of the floor. I think you’ve got to bring that every single day.”

National League

Southend United 2 - 1 Yeovil Town FT

Keenan Appiah-Forson headed an 84th-minute winner as Southend boosted their play-off push in the National League with a 2-1 victory over Yeovil at Roots Hall.

Shrimpers captain Gus Scott-Morriss opened the scoring inside four minutes, smashing home on the rebound from a tight angle after Appiah-Forson's header was saved by Glovers goalkeeper Jed Ward.

Yeovil equalised in the 64th minute when Jake Wannell curled a fine first-time finish into the far corner from the right-hand side of the 18-yard box.

Defender James Golding rattled a post from distance as seventh-placed Southend threatened to regain the lead before Appiah-Forson nodded in an assist from substitute Sam Austin to earn the hosts a first win in three league games.

Match report supplied by PA Media.

The NFL league meetings are underway in Arizona, and several storylines have already emerged. Teams are now wrapping up discussions as they shift focus toward the 2026 NFL Draft.

San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch has generated plenty of headlines this week—and on Tuesday, he added another with a significant decision.

MORE: NFL star Drake Maye promotes Boston charity with new haircut

The 49ers face key choices at wide receiver, and they’ve already made one. The team has decided to move on from one of its options.

No returns this time

Lynch told reporters that San Francisco will not re-sign wide receiver Jauan Jennings as free agency continues. Jennings remains unsigned, which had fueled speculation about a possible return.

Lynch, however, appears to have shut that door. The once-reliable target for Brock Purdy no longer seems to command the strong market many expected.

The 49ers may also want to avoid further contract drama following their last major wide receiver deal. Brandon Aiyuk has distanced himself from the team, and San Francisco has yet to trade or release him.

MORE: ESPN has no clue how to use former NFL star Jason Kelce

That’s not to suggest Jennings presents the same challenges as Aiyuk. Still, Lynch may prefer not to take that risk after Jennings turned down multiple offers from the team.

Jennings’ next destination—and his eventual contract value—remain uncertain. He may need to wait until after the draft to receive a competitive offer.

Meanwhile, the 49ers signed longtime Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans this offseason, which may solidify their plan at the position.

Now, the team’s remaining task is clear: resolve the situation with Aiyuk. Will the 49ers trade him or release him? They are in no rush to decide his fate for now.

— Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead —

Slumping Red Sox Shake Up Starting Lineup Vs. Astros Amid Early Offensive Funk originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

With the Boston Red Soxmired in an early offensive slump, Alex Cora is shaking things up against the Houston Astros on Tuesday.

Following Monday's 8-1 road loss to the Astros, Caleb Durbin, Jarren Duran and Carlos Narvaez will start Tuesday's game on the bench.

Andruw Monasterio will replace Durbin at third base and bat sixth. Monasterio went 1-for-2 with a double off the bench in his Red Sox debut on Sunday, but this will be his first start in a Boston uniform.

Masataka Yoshida will replace Duran at DH and bat third. He's hitless in six plate appearances this year but has shown a good batting eye with three walks.

Connor Wong will spell Narvaez behind the plate and hit eighth. He's 2-for-4 with a double in two games to begin the year.

Bello bump day in Houston. pic.twitter.com/0d4kdJBRlZ

— Red Sox (@RedSox) March 31, 2026

The Red Sox are hoping these moves can give their slumbering lineup a spark and help end their three-game losing streak. Boston has struggled to generate offense in the early going, scoring just 11 runs and batting .226/.316/.350 over its first four games.

Durbin and Duran have both struggled to begin the year, so perhaps they could use a reset. Durbin is 0-for-14 and is still searching for his first hit with the Red Sox, while Duran is 0-for-8 over his last three games.

Narvaez has been one of Boston's best hitters so far with four hits in nine at-bats, but he'll get a breather to help him stay fresh. He's yet to play on consecutive days this season.

The Red Sox draw a tough matchup tonight against Astros ace Hunter Brown, who finished third in the AL Cy Young race last season and is coming off a nine-strikeout performance on Opening Day. They'll try to give Brayan Bello some run support in his season debut.

More MLB: Report: Former Red Sox All-Star Being Hired By National League Team

Tiger Woods is seemingly not admitting guilt after being charged with Driving Under the Influence.

On Tuesday, March 31, TMZ Sports reported that the golf star, 50, pleaded not guilty to his DUI charge following his March 27 car accident in Jupiter Island, Florida.

Per court records obtained by the outlet, the three-time U.S. Open winner has retained attorney Douglas Duncan, who filed a waiver of Woods’s presence for pretrial conferences on Tuesday.

Duncan previously represented the athlete in 2017 when he was charged with a DUI, reckless driving and improper stopping, per TMZ.

A toxicology report revealed Woods had drugs in his system at the time and he pled guilty to the reckless driving charge, entered a DUI diversion program, was on probation for 12 months, and was handed 50 hours of community service, according to the outlet.

As Globe reported earlier today, Page Sixobtained an arrest affidavit from the Martin County Sheriff’s Office, which revealed the cop that searched Woods “located two white pills inside [his] left side pant pocket,” and those were “revealed to be hydrocodone.”

However, Woods blew a 0.0 on the breathalyzer and claimed he hadn’t consumed alcohol or illegal substances. Rather, Woods admitted he took “a few” when questioned about prescription medications per the affidavit.

Additionally, law enforcement claimed they “observed several signs of impairment” from Woods as he was hiccupping, sweating, and “lethargic and slow,” yet “extremely alert during the investigation,” per the affidavit. His eyes were also allegedly “bloodshot and glassy,” and his pupils were “extremely dilated.”

In the moments before the crash, Woods told police he “was looking down at his cellphone and changing the radio station and did not notice the vehicle in front of him had slowed down,” the affidavit alleges.

Read More From Globe

• Dr. Drew Says Tiger Woods 'Needs Expertise' in Managing 'Chronic Pain and Addiction' Amid DUI Arrest
• Vanessa Trump Re-Evaluating Tiger Woods Romance After DUI: ‘More Flawed Than She First Realized’ (Exclusive)
• Tiger Woods Had Opioids on Him During DUI Arrest, Admitted to Taking 'a Few' Prescription Medications

This story Tiger Woods Pleads Not Guilty to DUI After Police Found Opioids on Him and Noticed ‘Signs of Impairment’ first appeared on Globe. Add Globe as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

This article originally appeared on PGHHockeyNOW.com.

Just one day after soundly beating one playoff rival on the road, the Pittsburgh Penguins (37-21-16) get little time to enjoy the feeling as they host wild card pursuer, the Detroit Red Wings at PPG Paints Arena.

It has been a lopsided rivalry. The Penguins have points in 15 of their last 18 games against Detroit (12-3-3). They’ve scored four or more goals in 13 of those 18, and have an active 11-game home points streak (8-0-3) against Detroit.

The Penguins will conclude their 14th set of back-to-back games. Thus far, the team is 11-8-8 (6-4-4 on the first night and 5-4-4 on the second night).

Rickard Rakell has points in 12 of his last 13 games (8-9-17) and is currently on a four-game point streak (5-2-7).

Parker Wotherspoon has nine assists (0-9-9) in his last nine games.

Sidney Crosby notched his 1100th career assist on Monday. He is two points short of tying Steve Yzerman for seventh-place in all-time NHL scoring (1755), and for second place all-time for points with one team.

Click here to read more from PGHHockeyNOW.com.

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Ex-Aberdeen and Everton chief executive Keith Wyness publicly questions why Rangers hired Jim Gillespie as their new CEO. Speaking on the Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Wyness calls the move a strange appointment. The 48-year-old begins his tenure at Ibrox in March 2026.

Keith Wyness Questions Rangers’ CEO Choice

This transition follows Patrick Stewart’s departure last year. It shows a big change under the majority ownership of the US-based 49ers Enterprises. Wyness feels for St Mirren. They lost both their manager and a key vice-chairman to the Glasgow giants in a short window. The veteran consultant once turned down the Rangers job himself. He still believes the pressure at the Old Firm is uniquely intense for any newcomer.

Gillespie joined the club after five successful years in Paisley. He helped secure top-six finishes and a return to European competition there. The current Rangers hierarchy, led by chairman Andrew Cavenagh and vice-chair Paraag Marathe, believes Gillespie has the skills to lead the club toward long-term success. However, Wyness suggests the jump from a mid-table side to a title challenger comes with huge pressure. These boardroom challenges might overwhelm a candidate without elite-level experience.

“I still think he’s a strange appointment, but anyway, he’s there and he’s got the job.

“I feel sorry for St Mirren, who’ve lost a manager, and now Mr Gillespie’s gone as well, which seems a bit unfair to a club like St Mirren who’ve tried their best.

“And so, look, it’s never been an easy job to come into the Old Firm. I remember I was offered the job once, but for many reasons I decided not to take the Rangers job and I think probably a lot of the Rangers fans are very happy as well that I didn’t.

“But still, he’s going to have his hands full, but I wish him the best.”

Will Jim Gillespie’s background in social care and mid-table football be enough for the high pressure of a title-chasing Rangers side in 2026?

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – MARCH 21: James Tavernier of Rangers is congratulated by Bojan Miovski of Rangers after he scores his team’s fourth goal during the William Hill Premiership match between Rangers and Aberdeen at Ibrox Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

The current situation at Ibrox demands more than financial stability. It requires a ruthless winning-mentality. This must match the heavy investment from the 49ers Enterprises group. Gillespie earned praise for his work at the charity Kibble and his role at St Mirren. Still, the Rangers are just on a much higher level.

The club sit second in the Scottish Premiership. They face a critical period. Every off-pitch decision impacts the pursuit of silverware. Many fans worry about hiring a fan-favourite administrator over a battle-hardened European executive. This choice might limit the club’s international growth.

His appointment feels like a gamble on a leader who understands the local culture. Yet, it ignores the global expertise often seen at rival Celtic. If the club fail to overtake their rivals this season, people will really start to question this move. Success hinges on one thing. Can his history of building sustainable models work in the high-pressure world of the Champions League?

​

The eyes of many international managers will be on Arsenal’s starting lineup versus Southampton this weekend.

At least nine coaches were deprived of talent for the midseason break, and all will be eager to know whether the raft of players who pulled out of their squads have miraculously recovered from the ailments that suddenly beset them.

After a disappointing Carabao Cup final loss to Manchester City, a mysterious injury crisis has beset players at the Emirates.

Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka played the entire 90 minutes at Wembley, but then, with the prospect of returning to the stadium a few days later in the white of England, they withdrew from the squad.

William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhães and Leandro Trossard also reported for duty with their national teams but quickly returned to North London.

Piero Hincapié, Martín Zubimendi, and Noni Madueke played their initial fixtures before returning; Jurriën Timber, Martin Ødegaard, and Eberechi Eze had existing injuries.

Even the England manager, Thomas Tuchel, was aware that the situation with Rice and Saka appeared suspicious, given the crucial run-in and the apparent fitness of both before the England camp.

“I understand the looks of it,” he told the media in response to questions about the pair.

“I still have 100% trust in the honesty of Declan and Bukayo. We did medical tests. I saw them. I have no reason to believe that either are not honest with me. But given the amount of Arsenal players, I understand the look.

“We knew after the [Carabao Cup] final that there are issues. They were in treatment. But they both came. Declan was even out on the pitch. He did not come and say: ‘Guys, I’m going home.’

“I heard there were camps where players did not even show up with boots. Bukayo did sessions in the gym to really try. Declan had a session on the pitch with Jude [Bellingham, who is also not fully fit] and said it doesn’t feel right. Why would I take any risks?

“They wanted desperately to be involved – just to get the narrative straight. But they were both clearly in discomfort.”

The German coach did not offer further details on the specific issues affecting the Arsenal pair on the basis that the club would be unhappy if he did.

But he added rather tellingly that “Declan [Rice] feels a discomfort since quite a while and he’s playing through it. He’s just now on the edge where he thinks: ‘Does this make sense, what I’m doing here, to push through with 70% and push myself and push myself?’ The same with Bukayo [Saka].”

The answer for a traditionalist who believes that every cap earned for their country is amongst the greatest honors a player can possess is ‘yes, you should push yourself.’

When your nation calls on you it is the honor of your life to represent it.

But the harsh truth is that playing for England used to mean more. It was a greater prize than any league title or European tilt; only a rare few got to wear the Three Lions jersey, and those who did respected that fact.

A fair counterargument is that international games were once less frequent; for example, the World Cup in 1978 had only 16 teams, compared to the 48-nation tournament the USA, Mexico, and Canada will host this summer.

The prestige of playing for a national team was also greater because club sides didn’t travel around the globe as they do today. The World Cup, held every four years, represented one of the few opportunities to see all the best players in action against one another.

These days, as many have noted, you see it nearly every week in the Premier League or Champions League.

But it is also true that some of the pride in representing your country has been lost; it no longer seems as special to players. International teams, like England, are increasingly having to sell the ‘experience’ of being a national hero to the superstars of today or as ex-boss Gareth Southgate said, “We want the players to enjoy the experience. We want them to have fun.”

Arsenal are not the cause of this deprioritization of national duty, but they are a reflection of the problem.

Or maybe that is too sentimental, and the colder, more ambitious take is that, given the relentless schedule Premier League players face, a breather actually benefits England in the long run, given the intense World Cup schedule ahead.

As Tuchel said, tiredness might not sink their campaign, but it might affect it.

“Fatigue is just a fact. That’s why we did this camp, as we have done – to give the ones who were heavily involved a break. I’m 100% convinced we will get the benefit from it – now against Japan and later,” he added.

England can only hope that the break handed to its two key men helps the national team as much as it has helped Arsenal.

Texas A&M (22-5, 5-4 SEC) is coming off an impressive three-game sweep over Missouri on the road last weekend, led by an offense that produced 39 runs and hit .389 as a team, led by junior first baseman Gavin Grahovac's four home runs, including his grand slam on Sunday afternoon.

While Grahovac's near-hand injury led to his best performance of the season, freshman infielder and starting third baseman Nico Partida was equally impressive, recording two hits and the first multi-home run game of his young career on Saturday, and has not hit seven home runs on the year, while slashing .320/.413/.563, and is fourth on the team in batting average.

After withdrawing his name from the 2025 MLB Draft, coach Michael Earley knew that Partida, along with fellow freshman infielder Boston Kellner, was too skilled not to earn a starting job, especially after losing Jace LaViolette and Kaeden Kent, who were both selected in the first and third rounds of the draft.

Around the rest of the college baseball landscape, plenty of freshman standouts deserve widespread praise, but among a stacked roster, Nico Partida has been a shining star and one of the more impactful newcomers in the SEC, and has now been honored as Perfect Games' Midseason Freshman of the Year.

The Pearland, Texas native is also a gifted pitcher, and while he has yet to see him take the mound, Texas A&M's depth issues could force Earley and pitching coach Jason Kelly to test out his arm later this season.

Nico Partida making waves.
Midseason Freshman of the Year 👍

🔗 https://t.co/VzfrynUjsT#GigEm | @PerfectGameUSApic.twitter.com/NbT7mrG4qz

— Texas A&M Baseball (@AggieBaseball) March 31, 2026

Contact/Follow us @AggiesWire on X and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes and opinions. Follow Cameron on X: @CameronOhnysty.

This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: Texas A&M's Nico Partida named Midseason Freshman of the Year

The end of an era in Tampa Bay may also signal the beginning of a new one. With longtime Buccaneers linebacker Lavonte David officially deciding to hang up his cleats, the franchise loses not only one of the most productive defenders in team history but also one of its most respected leaders. David’s presence in the locker room and on the field has been a constant for over a decade as a steady voice, a tone-setter, and a captain in every sense of the word.

But as he steps away from the game, David already has his eye on who could carry that leadership torch next. Speaking recently, David pointed to Tykee Smith as someone he believes is ready to take on a larger role, even mentioning him as a potential future team captain. It’s high praise from a player who has long been regarded as the heartbeat of Tampa Bay’s defense.

And it’s not just about what Smith brings between the lines. David referred to Smith as his “little brother,” a reflection of the bond the two have built during their time together. That relationship has extended beyond just position meetings and game days, with David taking on a mentorship role as Smith adjusted to life in the NFL.

Now, it appears that guidance could be paying off in a big way.

Smith, who carved out a role in the Buccaneers’ secondary with his versatility and physicality, has already shown flashes of being more than just a contributor but a cornerstone. Whether lining up in the slot, dropping into coverage, or stepping up in run support, he’s proven to be a reliable and instinctive piece of Todd Bowles’ defense. Leadership, however, is a different challenge and one that isn’t handed out lightly. Still, if there’s anyone who understands what it takes to wear that “C” in Tampa Bay, it’s David.

And his endorsement of Smith speaks volumes about the young safety's work ethic, character, and locker-room presence.

This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Lavonte David suggests Tykee Smith is ready to step up for the Bucs

PHOENIX — Nearly a month after the Cowboys placed their franchise tag on wide receiver George Pickens, team owner Jerry Jones remains comfortable with Pickens playing 2026 under the tag.

The two sides have until July 15 to reach a deal. But multiple team sources told Yahoo Sports they believe Pickens playing 2026 on the franchise tag is best for both sides.

Draft your Yahoo Fantasy Baseball team for the 2026 MLB Season

The Cowboys are not looking to move on from Pickens next season. But they want a larger sample size of his on-field production and off-field professionalism before compensating him at a position with a high-end market that has surpassed $40 million per year.

“Make no mistake about it,” Jones said Tuesday from the league’s annual meeting, “we have long-term plans for Pickens.”

The Cowboys know there’s a real possibility Pickens will not report to offseason activities, and perhaps even training camp, without a multiyear deal. But Jones says he draws confidence from Pickens’ offseason work with quarterback Dak Prescott and that disagreement on tags is “normal.”

This developing story will be updated.

Georgetown junior guard Malik Mackplans to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal after two seasons with the Hoyas, On3’s Joe Tipton has confirmed.

This developing story will be updated.

Jets predicted to swing another QB trade after Raiders deal for Geno Smith originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The New York Jets are entering the 2026 NFL Draft season in April without a backup plan behind Geno Smith after trading for him from the Las Vegas Raiders.

That deal wasn't a bad idea, especially since it was such a cheap move that it also didn't cost much money. But, in the draft, without clear-cut options worth taking early, the Jets might have to pivot to a different quarterback plan.

Brent Solbeski of Bleacher Report shared a prediction for the Jets that would have them acquire another QB this offseason by way of a trade. This prediction would have Aaron Glenn and Darren Mougey swinging their second QB trade to try to find a starter.

Jets predicted to make bold QB trade despite Geno Smith deal

"As part of the cascading effect with the Arizona Cardinals potentially moving up for Ty Simpson and the New York Jets finding themselves as a squad possibly without a young quarterback for the team's starting job, general manager Darren Mougey will need to get creative," Sobleski.

The Jets swinging a deal for a young quarterback this offseason might only happen if they cannot find a way to bring in Ty Simpson, the Alabama quarterback, during the NFL Draft.

It's entirely possible that a team, including the Arizona Cardinals, jumps back into the first-round after the Jets' 16th overall pick and before their 33rd overall pick to select Simpson.

More: Aaron Glenn predicted to add three QBs to NFL roster this offseason

In such a scenario, the Jets wouldn't have a good quarterback option in the draft who could be confidently started in 2026. That would, in turn, open the door to a trade.

Someone like Spencer Rattler of the New Orleans Saints, Tanner McKee of the Philadelphia Eagles, Mac Jones of the San Francisco 49ers, or Davis Mills of the Houston Texans would be worth considering.

If they have time, they could turn one of their second-round picks at No. 33 or 44 into a quarterback, or they could use a few later picks and a pick-swap to land a young quarterback to compete with Smith.

While all signs point to Smith being the Week 1 starter, the Jets could land a new QB to give the offense another option. Sobleski's prediction would make sense if they lost out on Simpson and wanted to get a high-upside QB on the roster other than Smith.

More Jets news:

• Breece Hall breaks silence on franchise tag
• Jets deny Aaron Glenn was asleep at NFL Combine
• Geno Smith returning to Jets is ‘full circle’ moment for veteran QB
• Nahshon Wright agrees to $5.5 million deal with Jets in steal by Darren Mougey
• Jets get bad news as Jaguars don’t look poised to trade Brian Thomas Jr. despite trade rumors
• Jets traded for Geno Smith instead of signing him in free agency to avoid worst-case-scenario
• Jets predicted to draft David Bailey No. 2 overall after offseason spending

Two matches stirred the Copa Verde this Monday (30). At Augusto Nunes, in Amapá, in the highest-scoring game so far in the competition, Trem defeated Grêmio Sampaio 5-4 — a match valid for Group A of the Copa Norte.

Meanwhile, at Carlos Zamith, in Manaus, Amazonas was beaten by Águia de Marabá 2-0, in Group B of the Copa Norte.

In the current edition, the Copa Verde is divided in its initial stages into the Copa Norte and the Copa Centro-Oeste.

With the round’s results, Group A of the Copa Norte is led by Nacional, with 4 points, followed by Paysandu, with 3. In Group B, Porto Velho is ahead with 6 points, and Águia de Marabá is in second place, also with 6 points.

In Group A of the Copa Centro-Oeste, Rio Branco-ES is first with 6, and Vila Nova is second with 3. In Group B, Gama holds first place with 6, and Anápolis comes right behind with 3.

The second round of the Copa Verde ends this Tuesday (31), with the match between Guaporé and Paysandu, at 8 p.m., at Cassolão, in Rondônia.

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

NFL star Drake Maye has made a drastic change to his appearance after Super Bowl 60, and it’s giving a Massachusetts hospital major recognition.

The New England Patriots quarterback is preparing for the 2026 NFL season following the team’s loss to the Seattle Seahawks. However, Maye is sporting a new look after helping raise money for a worthy cause.

MORE: ESPN has no clue how to use former NFL star Jason Kelce

Maye and the Boston Children’s Hospital teamed up to raise funds for deserving kids in need. That led to Maye having his head shaved to bring more awareness to the children’s hospital during the Saving by Shaving charity event.

.@DrakeMaye2 got a new look to raise money for Boston Children’s Hospital ❤️

(via @cpriceglobe) pic.twitter.com/HMAdhJkd3l

— NFL (@NFL) March 31, 2026

Maye’s wife, Ann Michael, was spotted in a video Tuesday holding the electric razor up to her NFL star husband’s head. Ann Michael has become a celebrity in her own right in recent months after appearing in many social media videos cooking and baking for the Maye family.

Luckily for Maye and Patriots fans, the young quarterback isn’t completely bald heading into a busy offseason for New England. However, the generous act has still brought great attention to Boston Children’s Hospital.

Patriots star, wife debut charitable foundation

Maye and his wife have launched the MayeDay Family Foundation to help children and families in need, particularly those in New England and North Carolina.

The foundation is hosting its first fundraising event in May during a celebrity softball game at Polar Park in Worcester, Mass.

MORE: Super Bowl 63 stadium revealed, where is the 2029 NFL finale?

“I actually cut my grandma’s hair one time and it looked so horrible,” said Ann Michael. “It was during COVID and she really needed a haircut so I gave her one. It looked so bad, so, we’ll see how this goes.”

The Patriots are hopeful that the AFC East champions will be able to continue their success with Maye in 2026. Last season, New England exceeded expectations by reaching the AFC Championship Game in Maye’s second season.

The former North Carolina quarterback was selected third overall by New England in the 2024 NFL Draft. NFL signal callers Caleb Williams and Jayden Daniels were each drafted in the two spots before Maye.

McDonald's All American Games schedule 2026: Times, TV channels, rosters for basketball scrimmages, Jam Fest, more originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

High school basketball's best heads to the desert for the 2026 McDonald's All American games. 

On March 31, the faces that will be lighting up college basketball have one final moment on the court as high schoolers. The bright lights of Phoenix, Arizona, will set the stage as 48 of the nation’s elite — 24 boys and 24 girls — trade their hometown jerseys for the iconic East and West threads.

Before they become the household names of the Final Four and the top picks of the NBA and WNBA drafts, they’ll give the desert one last display of the raw talent and soaring athleticism that brought them to the summit of the prep circuit. Players like Tyran Stokes, Jordan Smith, Saniyah Hall and Jerzy Robinson will all join forces for a showcase of high school basketball's best.

The games are just one part of the spectacle, with events such as the Sprite Jam Fest, 3-Point Contest, Slam Dunk Contest and knockout game all parts of the event as well.

The Sporting News brings you everything you need to know about the 2026 McDonald's All American Games, including TV and streaming options for events.

McDonald's All American Games schedule 2026

Sunday, March 29

Monday, March 30

Tuesday, March 31

How to watch McDonald's All American Games: TV channels, live streams

• TV channels: ESPN | ESPN2 | ESPNU
• Live streams: ESPN App, Fubo

Both All American games will air on ESPN on Tuesday, March 31, starting with the All American Girls Game. The day before, events will be broadcast across ESPN platforms, starting with the scrimmages on ESPNU followed by Sprite Jam Fest, which will be on ESPN2 that night.

Those looking to stream the events can with the ESPN App. Now you can watch ESPN without cable. Stream live NBA, NFL, MLB, NHL, college sports, plus SportsCenter, First Take, and all your favorite ESPN shows—anytime, anywhere—only in the ESPN app.

Fans can also stream events airing on ESPN broadcast channels via Fubo, which offers a free trial to new subscribers so you can try before you buy. 

McDonald's All American Games boys rosters 2026

East roster

West roster

McDonald's All American Games girls rosters 2025

East roster

West roster

Related Links

• 2026 NCAA men's tournament bracket
• Men's college basketball scores, schedule
• Latest men's college basketball news
• How to bet on college basketball

The Montreal Canadiens are the talk of the NHL due to their headache-free rebuild, which has them heading towards the playoffs for the second consecutive season, and yet, Toronto Maple Leafs president Keith Pelley suggests his franchise did not see them coming, so to speak.

Pelley addressed the media on Tuesday, a day after firing former general manager Brad Treliving.

One of the talking points centred on Toronto’s realization that the Stanley Cup window had firmly closed shut, a situation that took Maple Leafs management a little longer to realize than most.

It was only once they acknowledged the Canadiens and Buffalo Sabres had improved their standing significantly that the Leafs were ready to make wholesale changes.

“We need to be better, we need to be able to adapt quicker, and we definitely didn’t see the train coming that was the Buffalo Sabres and the Montreal Canadiens,” said Pelley. “And how strong those two teams are.”

Leafs MLSE President Keith Pelley on what went wrong this season with the team: pic.twitter.com/lDoC5w2frK

— TSN (@TSN_Sports) March 31, 2026

“Buffalo and Montreal have shown that young, energetic team,” he said. “They’re going to be here for a long time. The prospects they have, from Michael Hage, to Radim Mrtka from Buffalo, they’re strong, and they’re going to be strong for a long period of time.”

It’s very rare to hear a president discuss other franchises during a public press conference, especially while naming a top prospect such as Hage.

However, it must be said that almost everyone in the NHL saw this coming, and that goes beyond the fans in Montreal.

The Habs have been on the uptick for at least two seasons, and they’ve done a masterful job ensuring the prospect cupboard remains full while adding important NHL pieces.

Perhaps it was simply a matter of Pelley setting the standard by comparing Toronto’s situation to Montreal’s, as there would be some logic in attempting to emulate the Habs’ rebuild.

But if the Leafs really didn’t see Montreal coming, there are more issues at play in Toronto than a roster that has continuously shed talent over the course of the last few years.

Related Headlines

• Impact Of New Goaltending Coach On Dobes And Fowler
• Canadiens Preview: Carrier Injured, Dobes Starts Versus Lightning
• Habs Daily: Engstrom Recalled, Dobes First Star, Dach

Florida State basketball guard Marin Somerville is entering the transfer portal, according to Travis Branham of 247Sports.

Somerville played in all 33 games for the Seminoles, making 10 starts. The sophomore averaged 8.0 points, 2.4 assists, and 3.0 rebounds in 26.0 minutes per game. His 49 steals led the team.

He spent just one season with FSU after signing with them as a four-star transfer ahead of Luke Loucks' first season as head coach. He started his career at UMass Lowell and is now looking for his third school in three years. He was ranked as the No. 241 overall player and No. 43 point guard in the portal last offseason and was one of seven transfers they added.

Somerville scored in double-figures nine times for the Seminoles, dropping a season-high 23 points against Jacksonville and Virginia Tech. He shot 9-11 against the Hokies, going 4-6 from deep with six assists and four rebounds. He will have two seasons of eligibility at his next stop.

He is the third FSU player to announce their plans to enter the transfer portal, joining reserve guard Cam Miles and reserve big man Shan Muhammad, who will need a waiver to play another season.

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

This article originally appeared on FSU Wire: FSU basketball's Martin Somverville to enter transfer portal

Who is Quinn Costello? Medford’s Newman School Star Set to Play in McDonald’s All-American Game originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Massachusetts high school basketball has another national name to know, and it’s Quinn Costello.

The Medford native and Newman School senior has gone from intriguing local prospect to one of the top players in the country, earning a spot in the 2026 McDonald’s All-American Game. ESPN currently lists Costello as the No. 28 player in the class of 2026 and the No. 1 prospect in Massachusetts, while also noting he’s signed with Michigan.

That makes Costello more than just a good local story. It puts him on one of the biggest stages in high school basketball, with a place on the Boys West roster for Tuesday night’s game in Glendale, Arizona. For fans around Boston and beyond, this is the kind of rise that grabs your attention fast.

Quick facts on Quinn Costello

• Hometown: Medford, Mass.
• School: The Newman School in Boston.
• College: Signed with Michigan.
• McDonald’s All-American team: Boys West, jersey No. 8.
• Other major honor: Named to the Jersey Mike’s Naismith Boys High School Player of the Year Midseason Team.

Why Costello’s rise has been such a big deal

Costello’s breakout didn’t come out of nowhere, but it definitely accelerated in a hurry. Michigan’s official release on his McDonald’s All-American selection said he surged during the summer of 2025 with the Middlesex Magic on the Under Armour circuit, where he averaged 11.0 points and 5.0 rebounds per game, then followed that with a standout showing at Pangos All-American Camp and co-Most Outstanding Player honors. By his senior season at Newman, he was putting up 16.4 points, 8.1 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 1.1 steals per game.

He’s also been doing it for a program that keeps winning. Newman captured the NEBL championship in February and then rolled to the NEPSAC AAA title in March, beating Hoosac 101-68 in the final. That only added to the buzz around a player who was already climbing fast nationally.

New England Basketball Journal noted that Costello’s selection continues a recent run of New England stars making the McDonald’s game, following names like Cooper Flagg and AJ Dybantsa. So this isn’t just a Newman story or a Medford story. It’s another reminder that elite prep basketball talent keeps coming out of this region.

What kind of player is Quinn Costello?

The easiest way to put it: Costello looks like a modern frontcourt prospect. ESPN lists him as a center, but recruiting evaluations have pointed to the skill set of a stretch forward — a player with size who can space the floor, shoot with touch and keep developing into a matchup problem. 247Sports describes him as a “budding stretch-four” with soft touch and shot-making ability, while also noting his continued growth physically and skill-wise.

That’s a big reason his recruitment blew up and why Michigan got a major win when it landed him. The bigger picture is simple: a kid from Medford, playing at Newman in Boston, is now on the McDonald’s All-American stage. That’s not normal. That’s a sign you’re looking at one of the biggest Massachusetts high school basketball stories of the year.

For Bosnia and Italy, today is all about the last chance to be part of the World Cup this summer. There’s plenty of fire in this playoff clash between the two nations. 

Even before kick-off in Zenica, lots of pyrotechnics were set off. Even in the apartment block next to the Bilino Polje stadium.

Bosnia may have made the better start, but Italy took the lead thanks in large part to Bosnia keeper Nikola Vasilj of FC St. Pauli. Moise Kean coolly buried the gift-wrapped through ball. 

After that, Bosnia continued to be on the front foot. Shortly before the break, Memic was through on Donnarumma, and Italy’s defensive leader Bastoni pulled the emergency brake with a sliding tackle. The Inter man was shown a straight red, as expected.

With the man advantage, Bosnia still has plenty to play for in the second half. Italy continues to tremble over its first World Cup appearance in twelve years. 

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

The Los Angeles Dodgers sold a souvenir cup for superstar Shohei Ohtani at the beginning of this season for a price some viewed as unreasonable.

This limited edition cup was designed to look like a Dodgers jersey with Ohtani's name and number 17 on the back. At the beginning of the season, the cup was sold at Dodger Stadium for $74.99 and it allowed for unlimited refills of fountain soda on the day of purchase. After complaints, the price was dropped to $68.99 and the refill policy was changed to a season-long deal.

A season-ticket holder named Angel Yanez spoke about why he bought the cup (via California Post):

“It makes more sense through the year, we are season pass holders,” said Yanez, who plans to attend every home game with his son this season.

“We’re going to utilize the cups every time we are here.”

Despite the price tag, the cups sold out and because they were limited edition, they became a coveted item on the secondary market. Some were sold for sums between $250 and $290 on eBay, per The Athletic. Other listings are between $300 and $400.

Who would have guessed that a $69 cup at a baseball game would actually have more than three or four times the initial price tag?

This article originally appeared on For The Win: The viral Shohei Ohtani cup already looks like a steal at $69

Leicester Tigers have signed former England loose-head prop Mako Vunipola.

The 35-year-old, currently with French Pro D2 leaders Vannes, has agreed to join Tigers for next season along with Argentina prop Joel Sclavi from La Rochelle, Bristol Bears centre Joe Jenkins and Harlequins hooker Jack Doorey-Palmer.

Vunipola, born in New Zealand, made 79 appearances for England, was a World Cup runner-up in 2019, and was involved in three British and Irish Lions tours.

He is in his second season playing in Brittany. He moved to Vannes after 13 years at Saracens, where he won four Premiership titles and three European Champions Cups.

"It's great to welcome someone of Mako's experience and quality into the squad next season," Tigers boss Geoff Parling said.

"He's a proven international loose-head that is hungry to come back to the Prem to finish his career and is looking for a place that can get the best from him whilst offering the opportunity to play in big games.

"He's an outstanding character that will add real value to the group."

Vunipola said it was a move he "would never have envisaged", adding he was "honoured to be part of this prestigious club".

Sclavi, 31, has won the Champions Cup twice with French side La Rochelle, as well as the Top 14, and has played 33 times for his country.

Doorey-Palmer, 22, is a product of Harlequins' academy and has been on loan at Champ club Cambridge this season.

Jenkins, also 22, is a former England Under-20 international and became the youngest player to ever start for Bristol in the Premiership when, at 18, he played against Saracens in November 2022.

"I'm proud and happy to be part of a club with so much history and identity," Sclavi said. "I am really looking forward to what is ahead at Leicester Tigers."

Parling said: "We know how highly we value our set-piece, so we were looking at someone who could add both quality and depth on both sides of the scrum, of which Joel's size and strength will be a real asset.

"After proving himself in the Top 14 he was hungry for a new challenge."

Jenkins, who also qualifies for Wales, was rated as a top prospect when he made his debut but has been hampered by injuries.

"Having met with Geoff, it was clear that moving to Leicester was the correct rugby move for me to develop further as a player," Jenkins said.

"I believe the way that Geoff wants his centres to play will suit my style of play.

"I'm very excited about the coming seasons and playing a big part in future success at Leicester."

Doorey-Palmer said: "It's surreal to have signed for Leicester Tigers. I am absolutely buzzing to get started."

The dumb narrative about the Celtics that everyone believed — and why it’s dead wrong originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Boston Celtics were supposed to be bad this season. Jayson Tatum was going to miss most of the campaign after his torn Achilles. They got rid of size in the offseason.

Well, two of those sentences are true. But the first one was a bad narrative to begin with. There wasn't actually evidence that the Celtics would be bad.

Now, Jaylen Brown is calling out the doubters, and that's fair. There were a lot of them. Some wondered whether the Celtics should just chase draft positioning and try again next year.

And yes, it's easy to say now, but genuinely: Those doubts were silly in the first place.

This is a team that still had JB, and Derrick White, and Payton Pritchard.

Anyone who watched Neemias Queta play last year knew he could contribute inside if given the minutes.

Sam Hauser had already proven himself as a high-level shooter.

MORE: How golf might keep LeBron James with Lakers for another season

The pieces really did fit together just fine, and the Celtics got rid of an aging Al Horford, an aging Jrue Holiday and a battling-illness Kristaps Porzingis. Was that actually guaranteed to make Boston worse?

Yes, Tatum's absence was always going to be a major difference. Boston didn't have world-beater potential without him.

But the chance to win a lot of games in an Eastern Conference that still features a terrible bottom half? That was always present.

If Brown and White stayed healthy, the Celtics were never going to miss the playoffs.

Now, they're chasing the top spot in the East. And Tatum is back.

So much for the doubters. Maybe it's worth considering the whole picture before making any sweeping judgements like that again.

More NBA news:

• Celtics 'going to lose a good player'
• How one 7-footer is changing the Lakers' championship chances
• Mavericks have a logical Kyrie Irving end point
• OKC Thunder would have an expansion draft problem
• You won't believe why Anthony Edwards didn't start on Monday
• Bronny James has a new path to leaving Lakers

Red Sox on wrong side of MLB history with alarming stat dating back to 1962 originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Boston Red Sox are putting runners in scoring position. 

They just haven't been able to execute on those opportunities. It's a significant reason for their 1-3 start and minus-six run differential. 

"The Red Sox are 2-58 (0.34) with 32 Ks with RISP to start the year," the X account @soxbart wrote Tuesday morning. 

"This marks the worst batting avg with RISP for the first 4 games of a season (min 40 ABs) since the stat first started being recognized in 1962." 

"Boston scored a total of 10 runs in its first three games after an offseason spent doubling down on run prevention," FanSided's Katie Manganelli wrote Monday. "But preventing runs won't save the Red Sox if they can't score any themselves." 

More: Jacob DeGrom is only 149 strikeouts from 2,000 for his career

It's an absurd statistic for Boston, which has its eyes set on a postseason berth in a very competitive AL East. 

Shortstop Trevor Story struck out four times in Saturday's loss to the Cincinnati Reds, and the early results from the Wilson Contreras trade are questionable at best. The first baseman has just one hit through 18 trips to the plate but has walked four times.

The Red Sox's .666 team OPS ranks 18th in the Majors through four games, a far cry from the .441 mark of the San Francisco Giants. But they'll need a significant uptick in offensive production to avoid falling in the standings by the end of April. 

More MLB news:

• Reds’ Hunter Greene to be out until July amid brutal injury news
• Dodgers’ Roki Sasaki will return to rotation, not bullpen according Dave Roberts
• Joey Wentz is out for the season with a torn ACL for the Braves
• Braves predicted to trade Bryce Elder for Lars Nootbaar
• Jesus Luzardo’s $135 million extension is a steal for Phillies
• This 19-year MLB record is finally over for the Giants
• Luis Gil sent down to minor leagues in strange Yankees roster move
• Three ways Pirates' Paul Skenes could lose NL Cy Young Award

The door is still open to the Green Bay Packers playing an international game as one of the team's eight road games during the 2026 regular season. President Ed Policy said the Packers are still an option as an opponent for the Detroit Lions in Munich, Germany, or the New Orleans Saints in Paris, France, per Matt Schneidman of The Athletic.

Playing the Lions in Germany would cancel out a divisional road trip to Ford Field during the regular season. The Saints are on the schedule as one of the Packers' eight road opponents in 2026.

The two games will be finalized when the NFL's regular season schedule for 2026 is set. Last year, the league did not announce the schedule until mid-May.

Neither contest -- in Munich or Paris -- would count as a home game, so the Packers will play all nine scheduled home games at Lambeau Field this season.

The Packers did not play an international game during the 2025 season after facing the New York Giants in London in 2022 and opening the 2024 season against the Philadelphia Eagles in Brazil. Green Bay lost both games.

This article originally appeared on Packers Wire: Door still open to Packers playing international game during 2026 season

GREENFIELD, Ind. (AP) — UConn guard Braylon Mullins might be the talk of college basketball this week. He is still just a small-town Indiana guy at heart.

Here in his hometown of Greenfield, the streets carry common names such as Main and State. American flags and stone buildings dot the town square and those who put this usually low-key 25,000-person city on the map — there aren't many — are revered like family.

So naturally in a state that treats basketball like a religion and the sport's biggest stars like royalty, nobody casts a bigger shadow in this community now than the slender 6-foot-6, 196-pound, 19-year-old freshman who changed Final Four weekend with one brilliant shining moment Sunday afternoon.

Mullins' 35-foot game-winning 3-pointer with 0.4 seconds left didn't just make him an instant celebrity or send the Huskies to their third Final Four in four years. In a community full of fans who typically root for Indiana, Purdue, Notre Dame or Butler, Mullins has suddenly turned Greenfield, Indiana, into a haven of UConn fans.

“We knew he was good, but for him to go and play all the minutes he has and to perform as well as he has at UConn after being injured the first portion of the year, that’s great,” Greenfield-Central High School athletic director Jared Manning said. “But to do it and have that moment that’s going to live on forever, in maybe the biggest game of his life to this point on national television, we couldn’t have dreamed this up.”

A star is born

Mullins seemed destined for this type of fame when he started turning heads in middle school even though that's anything but the norm in a city that is just a 37-minute drive from Lucas Oil Stadium where the East Region champion Huskies (33-5) will face South Region champion Illinois (28-8) on Saturday for a trip to the national championship game.

Ask workers and customers at the local coffee counter to name the city's best athletes and former Major League Baseball pitcher Kyle Gibson and pitcher Drey Jamison, who is in the Arizona Diamondbacks organization, are often recited. The actual title probably belongs to Jaycie Phelps, who was part of the 1996 Olympic champion gymnastics team dubbed "The Magnificent Seven.”

Mullins is now on the list regardless of what's to come.

Indiana is rife with high school basketball lore and seemingly every school, large or small, owns a chapter in that book. Greenfield-Central has been a rare exception: Neither the boys nor the girls teams have won a state title, and the boys team hasn't won a sectional championship since 1998 despite featuring Mullins for three seasons.

How tough was it? When Luke Meredith took over as coach in 2019-20, he inherited a team that went 4-20 the previous year amid four straight losing seasons. Meredith left as the winningest coach in school history (109-37) following the 2024-25 season, success that came in large part because of Mullins and his family.

Josh, the father, was a former college player at IUPUI, now known as IU-Indianapolis, and served as an assistant for Meredith. Mullins' younger twin brothers, Cole and Clay, also played and are expected to play at a nearby Division III school next season.

It didn't take long for coaches and fans to realize the oldest brother, Braylon, was different.

He personified Meredith's motto — "juice, compete, standard" — by scoring 16.9 points as a sophomore and 25.0 as a junior before averaging 32.9 points, 7.2 rebounds and 4.2 assists and 4.2 steals as a senior. He broke the school's single-game scoring record twice in his final prep season, scoring 51 and later 52 points.

He wound up as the school's scoring leader (2,158 points) and became the first player in school history to win the prestigious IndyStar Indiana Mr. Basketball Award winner as well as becoming the program's first McDonald's All-American.

So when Mullins made that incredible shot Sunday, nobody in Greenfield was surprised.

“We’ve watched him play basketball since he was in middle school,” Mayor Guy Titus said. “We saw that shot many times here at Greenfield-Central when he was growing up, when he was playing varsity ball here. But to see it on national TV with like everybody comparing it to the Christian Laettner thing — I'm old enough to remember that. It was one of those magical moments."

Unifying a town

The Final Four on Saturday will not be the first time Mullins has played close to home since heading to Storrs.

In February, a large contingent of city residents made the short drive into Indianapolis to one of Indiana's most revered basketball cathedrals, Hinkle Fieldhouse. The hometown hero responded well, scoring 13 of his 15 points in the first half of an 80-70 victory over Butler.

Another little exodus could happen again: Manning said he anticipated having discussions this week about whether the school would cancel classes, offer bus rides or both for fans to attend UConn's open practice on Friday, which is scheduled to be held at noon. Even if not, Greenfield faithful are expected to go and cheer their new favorite son.

“When he calls home and asks his dad about this or that, it just reminds he's still a young man who is just like every other college kid,” said Chuck McMichael, deputy chief of the Greenfield Police Department.

McMichael knows because everyone in a town whose biggest festival honors poet James Whitcomb Riley seems to have a personal connection to Mullins.

Josh Holmes, like McMichael, works for the police department and has been Greenfield-Central's longtime school resource officer. Titus happens to be Braylon Mullins' great uncle. All of it has made this college season for the UConn freshman special.

The only thing better would be forcing a change of the signs greeting visitors to Greenfield by winning a national championship.

“When you come into Greenwood, you know, it says Home of Olympic champion Jaycie Phelps and Mr. Basketball Brayton Mullins,” Titus said. “You know Greenfield is known for its the Riley Festival. Now people are calling me, saying, ‘We need to change it to the Mullins Festival, we need to put up a statue of Braylon making the shot.' It’s funny all the comments I've heard.”

___

AP March Madness bracket: https://apnews.com/hub/ncaa-mens-bracket and coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/march-madness

Ukrainian rhythmic gymnast Taisia Onofriichuk dominated the World Cup in Sofia, Bulgaria, winning four gold medals across five disciplines. However, the actions of a Russian silver medalist in Sofia have sparked significant outrage.

During the medal ceremony for the Hoop competition, Russian “neutral athlete” Sofia Ilteryakova did not turn to face the Ukrainian flag as the anthem played for Onofriichuk, the event winner.

While Onofriichuk and bronze medalist Sofia Raffaeli (Italy) stood at attention, Ilteryakova was seen facing away from the flag as the Ukrainian anthem played.

Ilteryakova’s actions drew criticism, particularly from Ukrainian officials, particularly due to her authorized neutral status. In order to achieve neutral status and compete in World Gymnastics sanctioned events, the federation’s Ad-Hoc guidelines require athletes to meet the following criteria:

1. No voluntary affiliation with the Russian or Belarusian military or with any other national security agency
2. No active support for the military conflict in Ukraine

The World Gymnastics federation (formerly the International Gynastics Federation) states that athletes must refrain from “verbal or nonverbal" activity or communication" that “constitutes active support for the military conflict in Ukraine.”

Additionally, the guidelines state that athletes must not “take any action or behave in any way that may prejudice the interests of the competition, its integrity or the participant’s neutrality required as a condition for participation.”

In addition to her potential breaches of the neutrality criteria, Ilteryakova’s actions appear to violate the federation’s rules for award ceremony conduct. World Gymnastics rules assert that “all parties must turn to face the flags.”

MORE FROM FORBESThe Unprecedented Rise Of Clemson GymnasticsBy Caroline Price

Ukrainian Gymnastics Federation’s Response

The Ukrainian Gymnastics Federation is seeking justice for its athlete and its federation after Ilteryakova’s behavior at the World Cup event.

The federation provided an official statement in response to my requests for comment, regarding what it described as the “demonstrative disrespect for the state symbols of Ukraine” by Sofia Ilteryakova. The full statement is now available on social media.

Drafted by Ukrainian Gymnastics President Iryna Deryugina, the statement expressed “strong protest” over Ilteryakova’s “unacceptable” behavior.

“Openly demonstrating disrespect for the state symbol of our country and the fundamental principles of the Olympic Charter.”

The UGF accused Ilteryakova of violating Ethics and Fair Play and federation Protocol, arguing that the gymnast’s gesture constituted a “direct violation of the rules of conduct at official ceremonies."

“The award ceremony is an official part of the competition that requires compliance with etiquette,” the UGF added, referencing the award ceremony statute from the World Gymnastics rulebook.

The federation openly questioned Ilteryakova’s approval as a neutral athlete, arguing that her approval is further evidence that neutrality is “used as a a cover for broadcasting political views.”

“Turning your back on the Ukrainian flag in the conditions of the ongoing war is an act of political hostility,” Deryugina declared.

UGF Files to Ethics Commission

The federation also expressed its desire to protect its athletes from these forms of “passive aggression,” prompting multiple demands to the World Gymnastics Federation and the International Olympic Committee.

The Ukrainian Gymnastics Federation vowed to file an official complaint to the IOC’s Ethics Commission, demanding the following:

1. To annul (Sofia Ilteryakova’s) result at the current tournament for unsportsmanlike behavior
2. To permanently deprive the athlete of the status of "neutral athlete", since her actions directly contradict the admission criteria
3. To strengthen the test for "neutrality", including not only the absence of direct ties to security forces, but also the obligation to fully respect the state symbols of all participating countries

“Sport is a platform for fair competition, not for demonstrating imperial ambitions and disregard for the sovereignty of other countries. Ukraine will demand justice and a tough reaction from the international community,” Deryugina concluded.

World Gymnastics Federation Remains Silent

The World Gymnastics federation did not respond to my requests for comment and has not issued an official statement. This report will be updated should the organization provide comment.

MORE FROM FORBESBritish Ice Skating Federation To Formally Challenge World Championships ResultsBy Caroline Price

We’re into the second week of the international break, and the UEFA World Cup qualification play-off finals are currently underway. At half-time, here’s how it stands:

• Bosnia & Herzegovina 0-1 Italy
• Czechia 1-0 Denmark
• Kosovo 0-0 Turkiye
• Sweden 2-1 Poland

Italy are down to ten men, so maybe Bosnia & Herzegovina can pull the upset. I would also like to see Kosovo make it just for the novelty.

Elsewhere, England are currently losing 1-0 to Japan. Japan have been reasonably good value for their lead. England have probably been the better side, but they haven’t created much genuine threat and Japan have done a fantastic job on the counter. I look forward to some very breathless coverage if England lose a friendly!

Anyway, here are the scraps of BVB and Bundesliga news that I could rustle up.

BVB News

• It looks like the reports that Nico Schlotterbeck’s contract extension had been agreed were jumping the gun. Schlotterbeck himself has confirmed no agreement is in place and any decision could still be weeks away.
• Another Dortmund center-back, Waldemar Anton, is attracting interest from multiple clubs in Europe, including Manchester United, Aston Villa, and Atletico Madrid.
• If those rumours aren’t peculiar enough for you, how about reports that Real Madrid are interested in Daniel Svensson?
• BVB are said to be one of a number of clubs tracking the progress of Club Brugge’s 21-year-old forward Nicolo Tresoldi.

Bundesliga News

• With Rapha Guerreiro’s Bayern Munich contract expiring this summer, there are reports that he may be heading to Benfica.
• Bayer Leverkusen have set an asking price of €60-70m for Christian Kofane, with Arsenal among the clubs considering a move for the 19-year-old forward.
• It looks like Bayer Leverkusen may have beaten a whole host of huge European clubs to the signature of Hertha Berlin’s 16-year-old midfield prodigy Kennet Eichhorn.

Your Thoughts?

What will Borussia Dortmund’s backline look like next season? Who will survive from the current crop? Let us know in the comments.

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The Milwaukee Bucks host the Dallas Mavericks in NBA action tonight. 

These are two of the worst teams in the league, but there are a few reasons why my Mavericks vs. Bucks predictions favor the home side.

I explain with my best free NBA picks on Tuesday, March 31. 

Mavericks vs Bucks prediction

Mavericks vs Bucks best bet: Bucks moneyline (+110)

Both squads have been terrible lately, with the Dallas Mavericks winning just three of their last 18 games and the Giannis Antetokounmpo-less Milwaukee Bucks going 3-14 in their previous 17. The Bucks are last in the NBA in net rating (-17.3) since the start of March, while Dallas is 28th (-11.5).

That said, the Mavs are on the road and could be tired after losing by 30 points to Minnesota last night. 

Meanwhile, the Bucks enjoyed a day off after losing at home to the Clippers on Sunday. They should also have Myles Turner, Bobby Portis, and Ryan Rollins back in the lineup after they missed the previous contest.

They are three of Milwaukee's Top 6 scorers this season (with another being the still-sidelined Antetokounmpo), so having that trio active will boost the Bucks' chances of winning.

That's enough for me to back them at plus money against a Dallas squad that has Cooper Flagg and not much else.

Mavericks vs Bucks same-game parlay

Since both teams have nothing to play for, we've seen little effort from them on the defensive end of the floor. That has me backing a couple of player props in this SGP.

Daniel Gafford has stepped up as the Mavs' No. 2 scoring option and has logged 24+ points and rebounds in seven of his last eight games.

Meanwhile, Rollins has knocked down more than 2.5 threes in six of his last eight games. He'll torch a Dallas squad that is allowing 14.3 threes per game at 38.6% clip since the start of February.

Mavericks vs Bucks SGP

• Bucks moneyline
• Daniel Gafford Over 22.5 points + rebounds
• Ryan Rollins Over 2.5 threes

Our "from downtown" SGP: Planting his Flagg

Flagg is coming off a night against Minnesota, where he went just 5-for-19 from the field. That said, the Rookie of the Year favorite should bounce back against a Milwaukee squad that is second-last in the league in defensive rating since the All-Star break. 

Flagg has dropped 5+ dimes in 12 of 14 games this month, and he also makes plays on the defensive end. He has logged 2+ steals in five of his last seven games while blocking at least one shot in six of his previous eight contests.

Mavericks vs Bucks SGP

• Cooper Flagg Over 24.5 points
• Cooper Flagg Over 4.5 assists
• Cooper Flagg Over 1.5 steals
• Cooper Flagg Over 0.5 blocks

Mavericks vs Bucks odds

• Spread: Mavericks -2 (-110) | Bucks +2 (-110)
• Moneyline: Mavericks -130 | Bucks +110
• Over/Under: Over 230 (-110) | Under 230 (-110)

How to watch Mavericks vs Bucks

Mavericks vs Bucks latest injuries

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

For more than a decade, Takeru “Natural Born Krusher” Segawa has proudly stood as the undisputed face of Japanese kickboxing. When a martial arts icon of his colossal stature finally decides it is time to walk away, the resulting announcement carries an emotional weight that completely transcends the sport itself.

The 34-year-old megastar will make his monumental farewell appearance in the main event of ONE SAMURAI 1. Broadcasting live from Tokyo’s historic Ariake Arena on Wednesday, April 29, this blockbuster card serves as the inaugural edition of ONE Championship’s highly anticipated monthly Japanese series.

Standing across the Circle will be his ultimate rival, Rodtang “The Iron Man” Jitmuangnon, with the ONE Interim Flyweight Kickboxing World Title hanging in the balance. It is a high-stakes rematch the Japanese hero has obsessively chased, and there is absolutely no more fitting stage on which to pen his final, violent chapter.

The agonizing decision to retire was something the former three-division K-1 Champion had been quietly turning over in his mind for years.

Continuously weighing the grueling physical demands of his battered body against the competitive fire that still raged inside him, Takeru desperately searched for the perfect time to draw the curtain without diminishing the towering legacy he had built.

Takeru told ONE:

“Well, regarding my retirement, actually, I didn’t have the feeling of retirement yet. But I had been thinking about when would be the right timing to retire for about three or four years. The condition of my body was my top consideration.

“So the moment when I thought that this would truly be the last time I could [fight at my] strongest condition was probably about a year ago.”

The harsh reality of elite combat sports is famously unforgiving. The razor-thin margins that separate World Champions from mere contenders are measured in microscopic fractions of a second in reaction time, fractions of a degree in power output, and fractions of a percentage in physical conditioning.

For Takeru, the acute awareness of those shifting margins is hard-earned wisdom built over years of absolute wars.

He possesses absolutely no interest in spending the twilight of his career giving the fans anything less than his absolute best. The immaculate legacy he has forged deserves a spectacular send-off that honors his prime, rather than a narrative defined by a gradual, painful decline against the sport’s elite.

‘Natural Born Krusher’ made it clear:

“If I wanted to continue, I think I probably still could. But I thought this might be the last time I can put myself in my strongest condition, so I decided to retire this time.”

The final curtain may be rapidly coming down, but Takeru’s electrifying levels of intensity haven’t shifted by a single degree. If anything, the sobering knowledge that this battle will serve as his career swan song has only sharpened his lethal focus.

ONE SAMURAI 1 provides the perfect stage for everything he wants to say with his world-class striking arsenal one final time. For an iconic athlete who has sacrificed his entire life to the sport and to the devoted fans who have followed his every step, there is nothing left to do but deliver one last, unforgettable spectacle.

The inevitable sadness that comes with closing a chapter this significant can wait until the stadium lights go dark. Right now, there is only the fight, and a legendary warrior who has never once done anything halfway:

“I still have demanding [training sessions despite my decision]. The fight is not over, so I don’t have sadness or similar feelings associated with retirement.

“Because the next [match] will be the last, I’m spending each day so that I can give everything I have and to retire without any regrets.”

The Reason He Came This Far

At ONE 172 in March 2025, Rodtang Jitmuangnon’s catastrophic left hook put Takeru Segawa flat on the canvas at the 1:20 mark of the opening round. That brief, utterly brutal encounter left the Japanese icon with a mountain of unfinished business.

The psychological wound hasn’t healed. Instead, it became pure, combustible fuel, and his insatiable desire for redemption has been burning like an inferno ever since. That fiery vengeance is exactly what makes this rematch so much more than a standard World Title fight.

Takeru’s entire fighting identity is proudly built on all-out, uncompromising violence. A toe-to-toe war is the exact fight he always wanted with Rodtang, and it is the exact experience those shocking 80 seconds stole from him. Stepping into the Circle at ONE SAMURAI 1, he comes to collect his debt:

“The essence of my fighting style is a slugfest, and I’ve always wanted to have that kind of fight with Rodtang. [During the] last fight, I couldn’t even reach that point and lost. So, this is why I [always] believed I must fight Rodtang one more time. That’s the reason I have come this far.”

The millions of fans who have passionately followed every single chapter of his legendary career deserve to see the real ‘Natural Born Krusher’ unleashed one final time — not the vulnerable version that was caught cold at Saitama Super Arena.

Takeru is aware of what his recent losses on the global stage have meant to those who unconditionally believed in him. He carries that heavy emotion with him, not as a crushing burden, but as one final, powerful reason to make April 29 count for something infinitely greater than the sport’s most coveted golden strap.

The 34-year-old icon concluded:

“I want to show a victory to those who have supported me, to everyone on my team, and my family. Since coming to ONE, I feel like I betrayed their feelings [by] losing fights. But this is my chance to let them see me retire as the strongest in the world.”

Source

Castello Lukeba will be available on the market in the upcoming summer transfer window.

RB Leipzig are said to be prepared to sell the centre-back for a fee below his €80m [£69.8m] release clause, reports Philipp Hinze.

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The Bundesliga defender is reportedly ready for a new challenge.

Liverpool could capitalise on Castello Lukeba opportunity

Hinze reported on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday morning that both player and club ‘feel that their time could come to an end’.

In fact, Leipzig are said to be happy to consider offers coming in this summer around the €65m-70m mark [£56.7m-61m].

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That, one might reasonably imagine, will help bring a number of suitors to the table. Liverpool and Real Madrid, previously linked with Castello Lukeba’s services, would surely be among them, given their very real centre-back concerns.

Los Blancos, we know, are prepared to sanction the exits of both David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger. While the Reds remain unclear on which direction Ibrahima Konate will go with ongoing contract talks.

Should Lukeba be of interest to the Premier League?

Any defender developed by Red Bull’s talent factory – especially at a cut-price fee – should at least inspire some interest from Liverpool Football Club.

The Merseysiders have already benefitted from a strong relationship with RB Leipzig that has recently seen the likes of Naby Keita, Konate, and Dominik Szoboszlai join the ranks at Anfield.

Why not Liverpool-linked Lukeba also?

The Frenchman is exceptional on the ball, ranking in the 97th percentile for successful dribbles per 90. Not to mention he possesses some impressive defensive stats in the Bundesliga this term.

Our one main concern, however, as highlighted by Fotmob, is his apparent weakness in the air.

* Castello Lukeba’s aerial stats (per 90) in the 2025/26 Bundesliga season (Fotmob)

Given the direction the Premier League has gone in, such stats could very well be a dealbreaker for our recruitment team.

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The 2026 Masters will begin next week in Augusta, Georgia, and a familiar face — Scottie Scheffler — is the betting favorite to win the first major of the year at +500 odds at BetMGM.

Scheffler won the 2024 Masters by four strokes — his second green jacket — and came in fourth place last year at -8, three shots behind 2025 Masters winner Rory McIlroy (-11), who won his first title at Augusta in a playoff over Justin Rose. Patrick Reed (-9) finished in third.

Scheffler was a +450 favorite entering last year’s tournament and a +500 favorite entering the 2024 Masters.

McIlroy and two-time U.S. Open champion Bryson DeChambeau have the next-best odds to win this year’s tournament at 10-1, followed by Jon Rahm (12-1), Ludvig Aberg (14-1) and Xander Schauffele (14-1). No other golfers have odds better than 20-1 at BetMGM.

Scheffler has continued his terrific form so far in 2026, winning The American Express in January and finishing in the top 25 in every tournament he’s played in — including three top-five finishes.

However, all eyes will be on the status of Tiger Woods, who was involved in a car crash last Friday afternoon, and was arrested after failing a field sobriety test. Police officers discovered two hydrocodone pills in his pants pocket and Woods told police he was looking at his phone before the crash, according to an affidavit released on Tuesday.

Woods, a five-time Masters champion, is still among the list of entries, but he’s yet to announce if he will play or not. He currently has odds of 250-1 to win the tournament at BetMGM — the same odds as Johnny Keefer and Andrew Novak. Phil Mickelson is also a long shot at 250-1.

The Masters is usually the most-bet golf event of the year, both due to its popularity and because sportsbooks now keep futures odds on the tournament open nearly year round.

Tiger Woods allegedly had hydrocodone on him at the time of his latest headline-making car crash. But what exactly is it?

Hydrocodone is a potent opioid used to treat severe, chronic pain. The affidavit of the incident, obtained by USA TODAY, also included observations by an arresting officer that Woods' eyes were "bloodshot and glassy" as he performed a variety of field sobriety tests. A sheriff's deputy found two small white pills in Woods' pants pocket, which were later identified as hydrocodone.

Here's what to know about the medication, a powerful painkiller that belongs to a group of medicines called opioid analgesics.

How does hydrocodone affect the body?

Hydrocodone − frequently prescribed under the brand name Vicodin − is commonly used in opioid-tolerant patients to treat around-the-clock pain, per the Mayo Clinic. "It should not be used to treat pain that you only have once in a while or 'as needed,'" the Mayo Clinic adds.

The most common side effects are dizziness and lightheadedness. Other possible side effects of hydrocodone, per MedlinePlus, include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, increased sweating, decreased sexual desire and the inability to get or keep an erection.

Patients are routinely advised to avoid driving a vehicle or operating dangerous machinery if they are unsure how the medication will affect them.

The Drug Recognition Expert on the scene of Woods' crash believed Woods’ impairment stemmed from "some kind of medication or drug," according to Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek. While a breath test showed that Woods was not under the influence of alcohol, he refused a urinalysis test and was charged with a misdemeanor.

What are the signs of hydrocodone abuse?

According to the Mayo Clinic, hydrocodone "may become habit-forming, causing mental and physical dependence" if used for a long time. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health indicated that in 2024, 3.4 million individuals in the United States aged 12 or older reported misusing hydrocodone in the previous year.

Roaring Brook Recovery, an addiction treatment center in Kentucky, offers the following guidance to see if you're developing an addiction to hydrocodone:

• Continuing to use the substance despite negative consequences in your life
• Cravings to use the substance
• Developing a tolerance to a substance and needing to use larger and larger doses to achieve the same effect
• Inability to cut down use of a substance despite attempts to do so
• Neglecting responsibilities and relationships due to substance use

What's the latest on Tiger Woods?

Woods, 50, was charged with DUI and failure to submit to a DUI test following the two-vehicle crash on Jupiter Island in Florida, where he has a home.

Woods told police that he was looking down at his cell phone and changing the radio station before a March 27 traffic crash that resulted in his SUV flipping on its side.

Tiger Woods had painkillers, 'sweating profusely' after crash: officials

Neither Woods nor the driver of the other vehicle was injured in the crash.

Woods was taken into custody following the accident and was released at 11:11 p.m. on $1,150 bail later that night, a Martin County jail official told the Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Network.

Contributing: Steve Gardner, Josh Peter, Chris Bumbaca, Brent Schrotenboer and James H. Williams

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Tiger Woods allegedly had hydrocodone at time of crash. What is it?

The Jacksonville Jaguars are preparing for the 2026 NFL Draft, although they will likely have to make their picks outside of the first round. As fans look forward to the draft, they can take a look back at the players selected in the draft who made the biggest impact.

First up: the first round picks.

The Jaguars have had their share of first-round hits over the years, but only a few have truly defined the direction of the franchise. There are plenty that stand out, making it difficult to pick just three, but the best of the best will have set themselves apart through their production, longevity, and overall impact on the franchise.

Runners-up: Donovin Darius, Marcus Stroud, John Henderson, Josh Hines-Allen

#1: Tony Boselli

Boselli wasn’t just a successful pick; he was a franchise-defining one. As the Jaguars’ first-ever selection, he set the tone for the organization’s early years and became one of the league’s premier offensive linemen. His strength, speed, and size were a deadly combination, allowing him to dominate pass rushers. His performance in the 1996 playoffs, in which he shut down the Bills' Bruce Smith, the all-time sack leader, stands out, with Boselli holding him to zero sacks and just three tackles, which set the pace for the rest of his career.

His eventual Hall of Fame induction, the first Jaguar to receive the honor, only further cements his place at the top of this list.

#2: Fred Taylor

Drafted in 1998, Taylor became one of the most productive players in Jaguars history. He was consistently one of the Jaguars’ most dependable offensive players. Taylor stood out right away due to a rare combination of size and speed. Year after year, he delivered at a high level, becoming the franchise rushing leader and a member of the 10,000-yard rushing club, and among all-star running backs, he has one of the highest yards per carry. It's only because he played in such a small market that he continues to be snubbed for Hall of Fame consideration.

His combination of longevity and production secures his place among the best first-round picks in team history.

#3: Trevor Lawrence

Trevor Lawrence may not yet have the longevity of Boselli and Taylor, but his importance to the Jaguars is already clear. As a generational prospect coming out of college, Lawrence arrived with expectations of transforming the franchise, and has provided Jacksonville with something it had long been searching for: stability at quarterback. Not since Mark Brunell have the Jaguars had a reliable leader at this position.

Since being drafted in 2021, Lawrence has reshaped the direction of the team. He has a strong arm, can read defenses like Peyton, and proved to be a true dual threat, capable of running the ball and remaining a threat outside the pocket.

Together, Boselli, Taylor, and Lawrence represent three different eras of Jaguars football, each defining the franchise in their own way.

This article originally appeared on Jaguars Wire: Ranking Jaguars best first-round selections in franchise history

While the dismal ski and snowboard season is winding down, one Utah resort is already looking ahead to a major event next winter.

Park City Mountain will be a host site for the second season of The Snow League, a three-day competition featuring the world’s top athletes in halfpipe snowboarding and freeskiing, live music, fan experiences and a celebration of winter sports culture set for Jan. 22-24, 2027.

Three-time Olympic gold medalist and entrepreneur Shaun White founded the league in 2024; it just completed its first season in Switzerland earlier this month.

“Park City Mountain has always been one of the most important places in snowboarding and freeskiing, so bringing The Snow League here for season two feels incredibly special,” White said in a press release.

“With the Winter Olympics returning to Utah in 2034 and Park City set to play a major role in the Games, there’s an incredible energy building in this community around winter sports. We’re excited to make The Snow League part of that momentum, bringing the best halfpipe athletes in the world here and building something that grows with the sports in the years leading up to the Olympics and many more to come.”

The Park City competition will debut a 22-foot halfpipe at the base of the resort and a custom-built transition feature at Scott’s Bowl.

The league has yet to announce other competition sites for next season.

What is The Snow League?

The Snow League is the first professional winter sports league dedicated to snowboarding and freeskiing. It combines elite men’s and women’s competition with a festival-style atmosphere to create a multi-day experience for fans both on the mountain and in host communities.

The inaugural season featured two events in Aspen, Colorado, and one each at Yunding Snow Park in China and Laax, Switzerland, and a $2.2 million purse. Athletes compete to accumulate points based on their results from each event, which are totaled at the end of the season to crown a champion.

First season champions are Sena Tomita and Yuto Totsuka in snowboarding and Eileen Gu and Luke Harrold in freeskiing.

Sundance Film Festival gone but new party arrives

The Park City competition comes during a weekend long associated with the Sundance Film Festival. But 2027 will mark the first year that the festival will no longer take place in Utah following its move to Boulder, Colorado.

The Snow League sees its arrival as a new chapter as it introduces a global sports and entertainment event at a time of continued evolution for the community. Park City is at the center of one of the largest winter sports audiences in North America. It is within a short drive of more than 2.5 million people and offers easy accessibility for visitors from around the world via the Salt Lake City International Airport.

“As Park City continues to evolve, investments in events like The Snow League help define what’s next for our destination,” said Deirdra Walsh, Park City Mountain vice president and chief operating officer. “Bringing world-class athletes and an innovative competition format to Park City Mountain reinforces our place on the global stage and celebrates the spirit that makes this community so special.”

The NBA has started the process of lining up voters for postseason awards, and if form holds from recent years the ballots will be due shortly after the end of the regular season.

Some categories will be easier for those on the voting panel to fill out than others. Defensive Player of the Year might not take voters very long (spoiler alert, it’ll be San Antonio’s Victor Wembanyama) and Rookie of the Year is basically going to be a two-contender race (a Duke guy will win; it’s TBD if it’ll be Charlotte’s Kon Knueppel or Dallas’ Cooper Flagg).

Other races will be tougher. When talking MVP, for example, logical arguments can be made for Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Denver’s Nikola Jokic, the Los Angeles Lakers’ Luka Doncic, Wembanyama, Boston’s Jaylen Brown and probably a few others as well.

Another of those wide-open races? Coach of the Year.

There is no shortage of candidates. J.B. Bickerstaff is likely going to guide Detroit — a team that made headlines for losing streaks just two years ago — to the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference. Mitch Johnson, in his first full season at the helm in San Antonio (he did coach 77 of the Spurs’ 82 games last season, but technically, this is full season No. 1), will have the Spurs in the No. 1 or No. 2 spot on the Western Conference bracket. Quin Snyder in Atlanta, Charles Lee in Charlotte, Jordan Ott in Phoenix and Darko Rajakovic should, at minimum, get some consideration as well.

And then there’s Boston’s Joe Mazzulla. The Celtics played most of this season without Jayson Tatum and were expected by some to be a fall-back-to-the-pack team this season because of Tatum’s injury and the departures of players like Al Horford, Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday. Oops. The Celtics are at 50 wins, again, and Mazzulla has done an admirable job.

He was asked before Boston’s game on Monday about Coach of the Year, and specifically his place in that race. What happened next was ... well, probably not unexpected.

“I don’t need it,” Mazzulla said. “I think it’s a stupid award.”

It’s probably now reasonable to think the Celtics won’t be sending out any Coach of the Year pitches to voters on Mazzulla’s behalf. Some teams do that; among the more memorable ones in recent years was Utah mailing out an actual album cover depicting then-Jazz center Rudy Gobert as a jazz artist (get it?) when hyping his Defensive Player of the Year chances.

There will be some lobbying for awards. It has already started. Wembanyama stated his MVP case after a game in Miami last week, and Keldon Johnson is also being promoted by fellow Spurs players as a Sixth Man of the Year frontrunner. (His main competition there figures to be Miami’s Jaime Jaquez Jr.)

And last week, the National Basketball Players Association was among those weighing in on the 65-game rule for award eligibility in most cases — noting the collapsed lung Detroit’s Cade Cunningham suffered earlier this month could keep him from reaching the minimum number of games needed to be on the ballot for the All-NBA teams.

“We always knew when there’s a line you draw that somebody’s going to fall on the other side of that line,” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said last week. “It may feel unfair in that particular instance. Let’s see what happens at the end of this year.”

There’s nothing wrong with teams lobbying for their guy, or guys, to win awards. There’s also nothing wrong with Mazzulla making very clear that he’s focused on far bigger things than individual honors.

“You shouldn’t have it,” Mazzulla said of the award. “And it’s more about the players and it’s more about the work that the staff puts in. It’s just that simple. I really don’t ever want to be asked or talked about it again. It’s just that dumb. So, the players play, it’s about them. Staff works their (butt) off. I’m grateful to have ’em.”

The team awards are all that seem to really matter to Mazzulla. It won’t stop people from voting for him, but it’s a stance that should be respected.

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The NFL owners meetings continued in Phoenix, Arizona on Tuesday, and once again, Miami Dolphins coaches and executives were available to the media in attendance. Head coach Jeff Hafley discussed various topics — including his excitement in regards to coaching third-year pass rusher, Chop Robinson.

Chop’s had some success. If you build a pass rush tape of Chop, he does things that are like, ‘I can’t wait to get my hands on this guy.‘ But, I think we need to get to know him, right? I want to see him live. I want to see what he looks like in his stance. I want to see what we can do to help him out of his stance — out of his first step. What’s his go-to move? Is he going to win with speed? What’s his counter? Can we coach him up on that, right? Can we help him take the step [foward]? What’s his mindset like? Where is he at right now? So, I just talked to him on the phone a bunch, but I can’t wait to coach him. But he certainly has that — his first few steps, his get off… he can roll. Now it’s our job to coach him up and develop him and help him get better.

Robinson finished his rookie season in 2024 with six sacks in the team’s final ten games. His potential was discussed at great lengths ahead of the 2025 season, with some predicting a major leap forward for the pass rusher. Unfortunately, that progression didn’t materialize — with Robinson finishing his second season with just four sacks total, and a mere 10 combined tackles.

This offseason, the Dolphins parted ways with veteran pass rusher, Bradley Chubb with the expectation that Chop Robinson will handle a larger portion of snaps on defense in 2026. Can head coach Jeff Hafley and his staff maximize the 23 year old’s skillset and help turn him into a first-rate menace on the football field? It sounds like Miami’s new head-man-in-charge is looking forward to the challenge.

The Oregon Ducks were back on campus on Tuesday after spring break, which meant Dan Lanning had the opportunity to address the media for the first time since the Ducks missed out on some key recruits to the rival USC Trojans last week.

First, four-star cornerback Danny Lang decided to commit to the Trojans instead of the Ducks last Thursday, prompting USC to take to social media to mock Lanning's famous statement, "The grass is damn green in Eugene." That line made waves when Lanning posted a video solidifying his own commitment to the Ducks while he was rumored to be in consideration to replace Nick Saban at Alabama.

USC posted a video of green grass turning red with the statement, "Guess the grass wasn't greener."

To make matters worse, the Trojans also managed to flip four-star offensive tackle Drew Fielder on Saturday. Fielder had been committed to the Ducks since February 1. USC again took to social media with a more subtle shot of a traffic light turning from green to red.

Lanning, speaking to local media on Tuesday, offered a simple, cold response to the jabs being thrown his way.

"No reaction. I'm much more focused on winning in the fall," Lanning said.

That's exactly what the Ducks have done against USC on the field, as recently as last season. Oregon beat the Trojans 42-27 in Eugene last season, and the Trojans have not beaten the Ducks since 2016. The Ducks and Trojans will meet again next season on Sept. 27 in Los Angeles.

While Lanning may not wage a war of words with programs while speaking at the podium, he certainly has not been afraid to use bulletin board material to motivate his team in the locker room before a big game. While the Ducks are focused on gearing up for the fall, I would expect Lanning to have some extra motivation and use this as more ammunition to fire his team up before they meet the Trojans at the LA Memorial Coliseum.

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This article originally appeared on Ducks Wire: Dan Lanning respond to USC trolls after recruiting battles

Saints could use 2026 NFL Draft to trade away Tyler Shough's backup originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The New Orleans Saints are finally turning the corner as a franchise, and it's thanks in large part to the team seemingly finding their quarterback of the future in Tyler Shough.

He looked great in 2025, and even though the team finished with a poor record, he proved he is the starter going forward. With Shough entrenched in the starting lineup, backup quarterback Spencer Rattler has become expendable.

And instead of holding onto him for another year, Alex Kay of Bleacher Report believes that the Saints could use the 2026 NFL Draft as a chance to trade Rattler away.

Saints could trade Spencer Rattler during NFL Draft

"The New Orleans Saints and Specner Rattler appear to be headed towards a breakup," Kay writes. "With Tyler Shough securing the starting role and Zach Wilson recently joining the team to compete for a depth role, Rattler looks to be the odd man out in the Big Easy."

Rattler is sure to draw some trade interest, and with Kay's comments in mind, seeing Rattler dealt would not be a surprise for the Saints at all.

Landing draft picks in return for Rattler to be a backup or join a quarterback competition elsewhere wouldn't be a terrible idea.

He has two years of control left on his rookie deal, making him a bit more appealing than a typical quarterback trade target. He could garner plenty of interest from QB-needy teams and teams looking for a stop-gap or rental option with full-time starter upside.

More: Saints are predicted to draft Sonny Styles eighth overall

Rattler, in two seasons and 16 total games (14 starts) for the Saints the last two years, has looked like a decent QB. He has a 62.7% completion rate with 2,903 passing yards, 12 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions.

His production lately has been better, with his 1,586 yards and eight touchdowns with five interceptions this past season in eight starts being a good deal better than his production in 2024.

Rattler might not be the best quarterback a team could acquire this offseason during the draft, but he has two years of control and has shown some intrigue as a starting QB option.

A team like the Las Vegas Raiders, Pittsburgh Steelers, New York Jets, and other QB-needy teams without a clear-cut starter could turn to Rattler as a trade target.

More Saints news:

• Chris Olave predicted to land massive contract extension this offseason
• The Marshon Lattimore trade has aged incredibly well for Saints
• Saints to sign David Edwards away from Bill on $61 million contract
• Travis Etienne Jr. agrees to Saints deal leaving Jaguars behind
• Saints get negative feedback on $52M Travis Etienne addition from ESPN
• Alvin Kamara might retire if trade rumors with Saints come true

Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens has revealed the simple thing that Michael Carrick did from day one to inspire the club’s dramatic turnaround.

Transformation

United have looked like a completely different side since dismissing Ruben Amorim and appointing Carrick as his temporary replacement.

Carrick has steered United clear of the inconsistencies and off-the-pitch drama that defined the Amorim era.

The legendary United midfielder has taken charge of 10 Premier League games, winning seven, drawing two and losing one. At present, the Red Devils lie in third place in the table, one point above Aston Villa and six adrift of cross-town rivals Manchester City in second.

United are now a more entertaining side to watch, but with a defensive resoluteness to match. Lammens has been a big part of the latter.

The Belgian goalkeeper spoke to The Athletic’s Adam Crafton and credited Carrick’s simple instructions as a driving force behind United’s transformation.

Lammens’ remarks

Lammens told Crafton, “The first thing, from the first day, was his (Carrick) ability to make everything quite clear and (present) a direct message. He didn’t make it too difficult for us or too complicated.”

“Sometimes, managers make a plan too complicated, and then some players don’t buy in and it’s difficult to get on the same level for everyone. But from the first game, it was quite clear what he wanted. He was not asking the most difficult things, but also he was able to let our players thrive in their qualities.”

“At the back, not giving goals away is one of the most important things, and then our players in front can make a difference. That’s probably what has been working the best.”

He continued, “We don’t really give away a lot of goals in the beginning of the game, which is probably one of the most important things in the Premier League. Michael has given us a lot of confidence and a lot of stability from the back.”

“At the beginning of the season, there were a couple of players injured and a couple of defenders coming in and going out. It was difficult to get the rhythm. The last couple of games have been better as well. For example, with (centre-back) Harry Maguire in front of me, he is also a beast, so it’s always nice to have him there.”

Lammens has proven to be a top signing for United, having joined the club on deadline day of last summer’s transfer window. But United also considered bringing in Emi Martinez from Aston Villa instead.

Lammens revealed that United didn’t give him any guaranteed of regular first-team football.

“There was never something clear set about that. There was never a timeline or something. They just said, ‘Look, if you believe in yourself, you’re going to get a chance. If you let your quality show in training, the manager will put you in’. I also saw the path for me to be able to get my chance sooner or later.”

The 23-year-old also made it clear that United was his only priority.

“From the outside, it was a lot of talk. But for me, it was always United, to be honest. It was quite clear for me. I just believed in myself. And I knew the chance was going to come and it was up to me to take it. I think I’ve been able to do that now.”

“Making the move to United was a big one, but in my head I was always confident and sure, long-term, that I was going to make the right call. It has gone really good, really fast. I can’t really say anything bad about the transition.”

Set-pieces have dominated the Premier League this season and Lammens, like other goalkeepers in the division have been asked to do more.

In United’s recent wins against Everton and Arsenal in particular, Lammens was instrumental as United beat both sides. He regularly came out to claim the ball or to punch it away from the danger area.

Asked about this, he remarked, “This season in particular, they start blocking at set pieces and trying to gather around the goalkeeper and make it more and more difficult. It’s not the easiest, but I think I’ve dealt with it quite well.”

“Sometimes when you see all those guys in front of you, you kind of get scared of it. But I also have to trust my team-mates to get me in the best possible position to push those players away. So I just focus on the ball and then try to make a right decision. I think I’ve been doing well at that.”

Lammens and United are next in action on 13 April when they host Leeds United at Old Trafford.

Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images

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Pete O’Rourke from Football Insider reports that Daniel Farke is entering a make-or-break period at Leeds United. Sources indicate the club will judge the German manager on three massive upcoming fixtures. Leeds currently sit 15th. They stay four points above the relegation zone, but the margin for error shrinks every week.

Leeds United’s Survival Test: Can Farke Deliver When It Matters Most?

O’Rourke points out that Leeds failed to score in their last four matches. Only their defensive discipline stopped the situation from spiralling. Home games against Burnley and Wolves are now must-win matches. Leeds United also face a Tottenham side that haven’t won a single game in 2026. This gives Farke a genuine chance to pull away from the bottom three. O’Rourke believes Farke deserves credit for keeping Leeds United in the fight. He feels the squad has enough quality to stay up.

“They’re four points above the relegation zone. The concern has been the lack of goals in recent games.

“Leeds have failed to score in their last four games, but they’re not conceding too many goals either, so it’s no massive concern.

“If they can turn some of those draws into wins, they’ll move themselves further clear of trouble, and I’m sure they’ll be confident that they will secure Premier League survival.

“They’ve still got to play Burnley and Wolves at home. If they can pick up maximum points from those games, they’ll be almost there, I think, as good as staying up, and then they’ve also got Spurs to play as well, so three huge games still to play against rivals down at the wrong end of the table.

“I’d still be confident that Leeds have more than enough to stay up, and as I said, a lot of that will be down to Farke, so he deserves a lot of credit.”

Is Leeds’ xG Advantage Real or Just a Cruel Illusion?

BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 15: Daniel Farke, Manager of Leeds United, celebrates victory following the Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round match between Birmingham City and Leeds United on February 15, 2026 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

Leeds United are a strange case this season. They have 31 points from 29 matches. However, their Expected Points total is 43.6. This suggests the team play much better than the league table shows. This gap is one of the most shocking stats in the Premier League. It tells a story that the basic table misses.

The 49-year-old manager led Leeds to the Championship title with 100 points last year. Now, he faces the biggest test of his Elland Road career. Farke built his name by getting the most out of teams in the second tier. He won the Championship twice with Norwich and once with Leeds. However, the Premier League uses a different math entirely. Leeds United lost their last two home games. They have won only once in seven matches, and this makes the Burnley and Wolves games feel like obligations rather than opportunities.

Leeds travel to Spurs on 9 May. They end the season at West Ham. This final-day match could decide everything. Facing two relegation rivals in a row rewards bravery. The data shows Leeds United create chances. The problem is that they stop scoring when the pressure peaks. That is a mental issue, not just a tactical one, and Farke knows it. Everyone at Elland Road knows it too.

Reigning ONE Bantamweight MMA World Champion “The Tormentor” Enkh-Orgil Baatarkhuu may not have an opponent officially lined up for his next walk to the Circle, but his ambitions have never been clearer.

Having already conquered his own weight class, the Mongolian superstar is ready to write a new chapter in his martial arts legacy, and he’s eyeing a potential showdown with ONE Featherweight MMA World Champion Tang Kai for a shot at another 26 pounds of gold.

For “The Tormentor,” stepping into a heavier weight class is not just about securing another piece of hardware. It is about cementing his name among the biggest legends of the sport.

The bantamweight MMA king stated:

“All martial artists have a dream to become multi-division champions, right? For me, it’s the same. Most importantly, I want to make history as the first-ever two-division Mongolian MMA World Champion. That is the biggest motivation for me to challenge Tang Kai for the featherweight belt.”

A potential collision between Baatarkhuu’s relentless grappling pressure and Tang’s devastating knockout power would be a massive spectacle for ONE Championship fans all across the globe. The Mongolian has already visualized how that battle against the Chinese phenom might unfold.

He explained:

“After Tang Kai and myself go inside the cage, I don’t know what will happen. I don’t know how the fight will end, whether that’s by a knockout or submission. But what I am thinking in my mind, I see a five-round war. For me, there’s a chance I can go the distance with him and beat him.”

Moving up to face a heavier, highly dangerous World Champion is a daunting prospect. Even so, that potential super-fight will have to wait a little longer since Tang will be defending his belt against Shamil “The Cobra” Gasanov next at ONE Fight Night 43 in U.S. primetime on May 15.

However, if Baatarkhuu were to get that opportunity later this year, it would be hard to bet against him. He has been on a truly historic run and knows exactly what it takes to defy the odds, having captured the coveted ONE Bantamweight MMA World Title by submitting former divisional kingpin Fabricio “Wonder Boy” Andrade at ONE Fight Night 38 last December.

Carrying that unshakable confidence, he is eager to test his steel against Tang at some point:

“If ONE Championship gives me the opportunity, I would like to really challenge and go up against Tang Kai. I think he’s also really hungry to fight, so it should be a great fight.”

The Future Of The Bantamweight MMA Throne

Enkh-Orgil Baatarkhuu’s eyes may be fixed on two-division supremacy, but he is also fiercely protective of his bantamweight MMA crown. The Mongolian hero firmly believes that any athlete looking to challenge for his World Title must be riding a wave of undeniable momentum, rather than stumbling into a championship opportunity off a loss.

That strict standard of merit was instilled in him by his legendary coach, former ONE Featherweight MMA World Champion Narantungalag “Tungaa” Jadambaa.

Baatarkhuu noted:

“I know that holding the World Title – holding this golden belt – is a huge responsibility. I have major respect for my belt as well.

“My coach, Narantungalag Jadambaa, fought for a title shot three times. And every time he lost, he would have to win at least two more times before he could fight for the belt again. I do believe that the reason behind it is that whoever is willing to fight for the belt must win his last fight – at least one fight.”

Looking at the current landscape of the bantamweight MMA division, Baatarkhuu sees two obvious contenders hovering at the top: former divisional rulers Fabricio Andrade and John “Hands of Stone” Lineker.

However, with both men coming off tough defeats, the reigning World Champion believes the path forward is clear. Instead of granting either man an immediate shot, Baatarkhuu wants to see the two Brazilian knockout artists face each other in a high-stakes World Title eliminator while he hunts for featherweight MMA gold.

The Mongolian superstar declared:

“I am okay to fight whoever, but in my division, for example, [John] Lineker, he lost his last fight. And Fabricio also lost to me. It was a rear-naked choke. It wasn’t like a five-round decision.

“I would like to say that I’m ready to fight whoever deserves to fight me. But I think it is better for those two guys to face each other. Whoever wins can go against me, I’m ready to do that.”

Even with that gauntlet laid down, Baatarkhuu is already looking ahead to the ultimate victor. 

Having already handed Andrade a definitive defeat, the Mongolian hero envisions Lineker surviving that hypothetical eliminator, setting the stage for an explosive ONE Bantamweight MMA World Title showdown in the future.

Anticipating that eventual war, Baatarkhuu concluded:

“I have a lot of respect for Lineker. He has been a champion before, and he’s a really strong striker. Obviously, it’s going to be a war, like what happened between Fabricio Andrade and myself. It’s hard to tell who’s tougher, though. The only way we will know is if we face each other.”

Source

On the court, UConn coach Dan Hurley is an emotional and animated guy. But some fans thought Hurley took things too far following UConn’s last-second win over Duke in the Elite Eight.

Following Braylon Mullins’ buzzer-beat to put UConn up 73-72 with just 0.3 seconds left, cameras captured a weird exchange between Hurley and official Roger Ayers. In the clip, Hurley appeared to get in Ayers’ face, with both men butting heads on the sideline.

After seeing the exchange, some wondered why Hurley was not charged with a technical foul, as making contact with an official can lead to both a penalty and ejection for coaches. Hurley, who was ejected from a loss vs. Marquette earlier in the season after making contact with an official, was certainly aware that was the case.

But Hurley said everyone who has seen the clip has it all wrong. As the coach explained during an appearance on “The Triple Option” podcast, he believed Ayers was going in for a chest-bump, which resulted in the strange interaction.

Hurley’s full comments read:

"Really, at that point in the game we had it won, and he’s such an easy guy to work with during the game, I thought he was coming over to chest-bump me and celebrate the shot. It’s not like that for me with him. My experience with him has been, we haven’t won every game. I haven’t agreed with every call. So that was in no way me going at a ref like I’ve been at their throat the whole game. There were other points in the game where I had my arm around him walking out of a timeout. We were cracking jokes and laughing.”

At that point, Hurley said it wasn’t like the situation at Marquette, where he implied he deserved to be penalized for his actions. He then turned the conversation back to the Duke game, saying he was being carried by the “emotion of the shot” during his moment with Ayers. When asked if they were sharing that moment, Hurley clarified that Ayers was coming up to inform Hurley that there was still some time left on the clock.

Given the narrow margin of victory, a technical foul on Hurley in that moment could have been catastrophic for UConn. That, obviously, didn’t happen and UConn advanced to the Final Four, where it will take on Illinois on Saturday.

While Hurley will move on to the Final Four, Ayers won’t be able to say the same. Despite being a veteran official with multiple years of Final Four experience under his belt, Ayers was not chosen to work during the Final Four. It’s unclear whether his interaction with Hurley played a role in that decision.

Welcome, you may be wondering why I am not with Cleveland this year. Well, as I understand, Bidwell won my services in a poker game over this past weekend for the upcoming draft. Or, at least I was told he was on the winning end. Hmm..

Since this is so recent, there wasn’t a lot of time to prepare. It is also noteworthy to mention that the Arizona Cardinals have been trying desperately to trade out of drafting at No. 3. But sadly, no suitors. The Cards were really hoping to build up capital for next year’s draft, particularly with a better-looking QB class. As many would say, quarterback is the biggest need at least after releasing Kyler Murray. So, it looks like we will be sticking with the third overall pick. Let’s be honest, when this draft class walks into the bank, bank security turns off their CCTV cameras. This class is so bad … they make onions cry.

Moving on … despite the massive cap hit caused by Murray, the Cards had a lot of room and were fairly active in free agency. Having a lot of cap space also usually means a lack of talent on the roster, though most of the Cards free agency acquisitions were Howie Roseman-type moves, and none surpassed Budda Baker’s cap number. While Isaac Seumalo is quality guard, the other OL additions were the likes of Oli Udoh, Elijah Wilkinson, and Matt Pryor. This might seem like a time to build up the defense but it does seem like Arizona did enough in free agency to plug some defensive holes and Arvell Reese is gone.

Whichever QB is under center this year will have some quality young pass catchers to work with like receivers Kendrick Bourne, Marvin Harrison Jr. , Michael Wilson plus tight end Trey McBride. So, why not give them as much help as possible? Hate to say it but the likes of Udoh and Pryor are not moving the needle much for Mike LaFleur’s game plan. And Atlanta was more than happy to say goodbye to Wilkinson.

Well, with Reese gone the next two candidates on Arizona’s big board are offensive linemen with those being Francis Mauigoa and Spencer Fano. Which one?

I must first state that I am not being paid by Head & Shoulders, nor affiliate myself with any other Procter & Gamble hair care products.

We saw the Utah tackle and the 2025 Outland Trophy winner as our best option. Many darn him as a tight end in an offensive lineman body. Spencer Fano is nearly 6’6″, weighing in at 311 lbs, ran a sub 5.0 – 40-yard dash at the combine and he posted an elite athlete (9.74 RAS), score. He is viewed as a better slightly better pass-protector than Mauigoa and since LaFleur schemes demand an athletic, agile offensive linemen, this seems like a great marriage.

Although he has a “lean” build for a tackle and short arms his high-end agility, technique and quick feet make him a premier zone-blocking prospect

While known for his recovery blocking, grip, pass protection he isn’t a leg driver and has a tougher time with a bull rush but still allowed zero sacks, zero quarterback hits, and just five total pressures last season in 12 starts.

He is also one of only two ‘true’ freshmen to start at left tackle in Division 1 football their freshman year and made the Freshman All-America first-team, plus other accolades.

Measurables

Ht/Wt: 6-5½, 311

Arms: 32 1/8

40-yard dash: 4.91 seconds (1.72 10-yard split)

Vertical: 32 inches

Broad: 9-foot-3

3-cone: 7.34 seconds

20-yard shuttle: 4.67 seconds

Fano finished off his college career at right tackle with a boatload of honors and awards such as the Outland Trophy and he was also named Polynesian College Football Player of the Year. Showing off his elite athleticism at the NFL Combine, he found time to take some quality snaps at center. In most eyes, he is a top 10 pick and in ours a top five pick. It also doesn’t hurt that he has had four uncles play in the NFL ( including the one he is named after); I think NFL bloodlines are always a big plus. That type of experience can’t be discounted.

As previously mentioned, his arm length is likely the biggest negative.

He seems like a safe pick but if his arm length does become an issue, you can kick him inside. No, you would rather not use a top three pick on a guard but you are likely looking at a player you’ll hopefully have on your squad the next 10 plus years with All-Pro type ability. Most outlets have him as the first or second best offensive lineman in the draft class and a top 10 overall player. He has an elite athletic profile and has been a starter basically his entire college career. Comes from a family with NFL bloodlines. His older brother and teammate Logan is also entering the draft but may go in the later rounds. Logan got a bit later start due to Mormon missionary work and injury. Spencer is highly regarded as the most athletic draft eligible tackle to come along in the past few years.

And lets be honest , that hair alone should garner this guy a lot of draft love.

Tape/highlights:

2026 BGN Mock Draft Order

1) Raiders (Mailata_in_a_Miata): Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
2) Jets (Dr.MidnightGreen): Arvell Reese, EDGE, Ohio State
3) Cardinals (grantspectations): Spencer Fano, OT, Utah
4) Titans (DrBubbles)
5) Giants (ablesser88)
6) Browns (kjb304)
7) Commanders (Jerry Robinson 56)
8) Saints (VetStadiumSection358)
9) Chiefs (Hoosinole)
10) Bengals (chuckelberryfinn)
11) Dolphins (phillyfan)
12) Cowboys (Green Grampa)
13) Rams (All_Hail_Howie)
14) Ravens (215T1LL1D1e)
15) Buccaneers (pascofljoe)
16) Jets (Euegene11)
17) Lions (BCHaas)
18) Vikings (The Player Formerly Known as Mousecop)
19) Panthers (LancGuy)
20) Cowboys (Cravin’ LeBlanc)
21) Steelers (iam4theBirdz)
22) Chargers (Aint1stULast)
23) Eagles (Philly21)
24) Browns (FierceDisc65)
25) Bears (jazztafari)
26) Bills (PhillyTexan)
27) 49ers (granthill7)
28) Texans (CrackTheEaglesNut)
29) Chiefs (z)
30) Dolphins (Booth12)
31) Patriots (Niels Rosenquist)
32) Seahawks (J. Wil)

2026 BGN Community Consensus Mock Draft

Now it’s YOUR TURN to vote for who you think should be selected with this pick.

1) Raiders: QB Fernando Mendoza
2) Jets: EDGE Arvell Reese
3) Cardinals:

World Cup 2026 playoffs live scores: Updated results, highlights from UEFA and FIFA intercontinental qualifiers originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

JUMP TO:

• World Cup playoffs scores
• World Cup playoffs highlights
• Who has qualified for the World Cup?
• How do the World Cup playoffs work?
• World Cup playoffs schedule 2026

The finals of the 2026 World Cup playoffs all take place today, as teams compete for the last six spots at this summer's tournament.

The four finals of the UEFA pathways are staged at four different venues across the continent, while the two intercontinental games will be played in Monterrey, Mexico.

Italy are among the teams hoping to qualify for the World Cup proper. The Azzurri, who face Bosnia and Herzegovina in their playoff final, are bidding to avoid the ignominy of missing out on a third straight World Cup.

2026 WORLD CUP HQ:Latest World Cup news | World Cup schedule | Buy World Cup tickets

World Cup playoffs live scores

UEFA finals: Tuesday, March 31

LIVE:Italy face Bosnia and Herzegovina for a place at the World Cup

Bosnia and Herzegovina vs. Italy

Czechia vs. Denmark

Kosovo vs. Turkey

Sweden vs. Poland

FIFA intercontinental finals: Tuesday, March 31

Congo DR vs. Jamaica

Iraq vs. Bolivia

MORE WORLD CUP NEWS:

• Updated World Cup playoffs bracket
• Italy's timeline of missed World Cups misery
• How do the World Cup playoffs work?
• Who has qualified for the 2026 World Cup?

World Cup qualifying live updates, results, highlights from today's matches

All times ET.

5:34 p.m.: BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA WIN! Italy have made history: they are the first former world champions to miss out on three consecutive World Cups!

5:33 p.m.: CRISTANTE HITS THE BAR! Bosnia and Herzegovina will qualify if they score their next penalty...

5:30 p.m.: CZECHIA WIN THE SHOOTOUT 3-1! They're heading to the World Cup. Bosnia and Herzegovina lead Italy 2-0...

5:27 p.m.: Captain Edin Dzeko looks to have badly hurt his shoulder just before extra time ended. It seems the veteran may have to miss the shootout (although he didn't take one against Wales in the semifinal anyway).

5:23 p.m.: We're heading to penalties in Bosnia and Herzegovina, too!

5:16 p.m.: We're going to penalties in Prague! It finishes 2-2 after extra time.

5:09 p.m.: GOAL! DENMARK MAKE IT 2-2! What a game in Prague. Kasper Hogh glances in from a corner, and it looks like we're heading for penalties.

Watch in USA:

KASPER HØGH FOR DENMARK 🇩🇰🇩🇰🇩🇰

THEY FIND THE EQUALIZER IN EXTRA TIME AGAINST CZECHIA 😱 pic.twitter.com/WSkQRC4y5C

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) March 31, 2026

4:59 p.m.: Controversy here as Tarik Muharemovic is only shown a yellow card for a foul on Marco Palestra as he ran through on goal. Referee Clement Turpin decided the defender close by meant it wasn't a clear denial of a goal-scoring opportunity. The Italians disagree.

4:51 p.m.: GOAL! CZECHIA LEAD 2-1! Ladislav Krejci restores the lead over Denmark in extra time. They have around 10 minutes to hold out.

Watch in USA:

CZECHIA IN EXTRA TIME 🇨🇿

Ladislav Krejcí fires this one home 🔥 pic.twitter.com/sUsgGJGHfw

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) March 31, 2026

4:42 p.m.: TURKEY WIN! Kosovo's dream is over. Italy's game is heading to extra time.

4:40 p.m.: SWEDEN WIN 3-2! They qualify for the World Cup. Poland and Robert Lewandowski miss out.

4:37 p.m.: The 90 minutes are up in Prague — we're heading to extra time.

4:35 p.m.: GOAL! SWEDEN LEAD 3-2! Gyokeres has scored the goal that surely sends them to the World Cup!

Watch in USA:

VICTOR GYÖKERES FOR SWEDEN 🇸🇪

THE ARSENAL STRIKER GIVES SWEDEN THE LEAD IN THE 88TH MINUTE 😱 pic.twitter.com/WWf1ZjDu2S

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) March 31, 2026

4:28 p.m.: GOAL! BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA EQUALISE! A brilliant cross from Amar Dedic is headed goalwards, Donnarumma saves superbly, but Haris Tabakovic pokes home the rebound! The goal is being checked for a possible infringement... but it stands!

MORE ANGLES OF THE BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA EQUALIZER IN ZENICA 🇧🇦 pic.twitter.com/YOQzrnQRbq

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) March 31, 2026

4:15 p.m.: GOAL! CZECHIA 1-1 DENMARK! Joachim Andersen gets to Mikkel Damsgaard's free-kick ahead of goalkeeper Matej Kovar, and he heads into the net.

Watch in USA:

THE DENMARK LEVELER ⚖️

Joachim Andersen heads it in off the free kick for Denmark 🇩🇰 pic.twitter.com/iXxJZMgpCv

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) March 31, 2026

4:08 p.m.: WHAT A CHANCE FOR KEAN! He intercepts a pass and just sprints away from the home defence. With only the keeper to beat, he goes for power, but his finish flies narrowly over the bar. A second goal could have been MASSIVE for Italy!

4:02 p.m.: GOAL! POLAND 2-2 SWEDEN! Karol Swiderski taps in at the near post after Sweden's defence goes to sleep.

Watch in USA:

Karol Swiderski levels it for Poland! 🇵🇱

Spot in the FIFA World Cup on the line... 👀 pic.twitter.com/CnQdLHHfg9

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) March 31, 2026

4:00 p.m.: GOAL! 1-0 TURKEY! Kerem Akturkoglu scuffs his team into the lead against Kosovo.

Watch in USA:

TÜRKIYE TAKES THE LEAD IN THE SECOND HALF OVER KOSOVO 🇹🇷 pic.twitter.com/xjacCv6dz6

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) March 31, 2026

KICKOFF: SECOND HALF

We're off and running again...

HALFTIME SCORES:

Bosnia and Herzegovina 0-1 Italy
Czechia 1-0 Denmark
Sweden 2-1 Poland
Kosovo 0-0 Turkey

3:30 p.m.: GOAL! SWEDEN LEAD 2-1! Just before halftime, Gustaf Lagerbielke nods home a free-kick from point-blank range to restore the advantage.

Watch in USA:

Sweden RETAKE THE LEAD thanks to Gustaf Lagerbielke 🇸🇪 pic.twitter.com/DWvfv4zKu2

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) March 31, 2026

3:28 p.m.: RED CARD! BASTONI IS SENT OFF FOR ITALY! The Inter Milan defender slides in and brings down Amar Memic as he races towards the penalty area. It was at the corner of the box, but there was no covering defender, and the referee deems that the deliberate denial of a goal-scoring opportunity. Gattuso is taking off Mateo Retegui to bring on Federico Gatti.

Another look at Bastoni's red card that puts Italy down a man with just over 45 minutes to play 🇮🇹👀 pic.twitter.com/NLqNAMWGlb

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) March 31, 2026

3:24 p.m.: Bosnia and Herzegovina have had 11 attempts to Italy's two, but they haven't tested Donnarumma when in good positions. The Azzurri are living dangerously, though.

3:21 p.m.: GOAL! POLAND EQUALISE! Nicola Zalewski cuts in from the left and places a shot towards the bottom-right corner. It seemed to wrong-foot goalkeeper Kristoffer Nordfeldt, who got a hand to the ball but couldn't keep it out.

Watch in USA:

EQUALIZER FOR POLAND 🇵🇱

Nicola Zalewski finds the back of the net 🙌 pic.twitter.com/siJgAMwnLq

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) March 31, 2026

3:16 p.m.: It's still goalless between Kosovo and Turkey. The visitors have had 70% of the possession, but Kosovo have had the better chances.

3:06 p.m.: GOAL! 1-0 SWEDEN! Anthony Elanga puts them ahead against Poland. It's another emphatic finish — it seems only really good goals will do when the World Cup is on the line!

Watch in USA:

ELANGA GOES BAR DOWN TO GIVE SWEDEN THE LEAD 🇸🇪🎯 pic.twitter.com/fy53BOdQ26

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) March 31, 2026

3:01 p.m.: GOAL! 1-0 ITALY! It's a horrible moment for goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj, who passes the ball straight to Nicolo Barella. He plays a pass through to Moise Kean, who fires home a brilliant first-time finish from 18 yards. Outstanding strike, but an awful moment for Vasilj.

Watch in USA:

MOISE KEAN GIVES ITALY THE LEAD OVER BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA! 🇮🇹 pic.twitter.com/isVmndd3jO

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) March 31, 2026

2:57 p.m.: GOAL! 1-0 CEZCHIA! It's a fast start in Prague for the home side, who take the lead courtesy of a thunderous Pavel Sulc shot from just inside the box.

Watch in USA:

CZECHIA OPENS UP THE SCORING EARLY 🇨🇿

Pavel Šulc finds the top corner 🎯 pic.twitter.com/W1sUHxX8We

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) March 31, 2026

KICKOFF

The games are off and running!

2:30 p.m.: One of today's other finals sees Sweden face Poland. It means one of Viktor Gyokeres and Robert Lewandowski will not be playing at the World Cup.

🍿🍿#FIFAWorldCuppic.twitter.com/O81r8sjkNZ

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) March 31, 2026

2 p.m.: Gianluigi Donnarumma gives his thoughts on Italy's game in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Azzurri are bidding to avoid failing to qualify for the World Cup for the third time in a row.

"I hope it will be a magical night" ✨#Azzurri#VivoAzzurro#BIHITApic.twitter.com/xqwzgOIfyh

— Italy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (@Azzurri_En) March 31, 2026

1:40 p.m.: It all comes down to this — the final day of World Cup qualifying. The remaining six spots at the tournament will be filled by the winners of today's playoffs across Europe and in Mexico.

The last chance. 🏆

Only six of these nations will book the final spots at #FIFAWorldCup 2026. 💭 pic.twitter.com/BzWLyGIE8r

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) March 30, 2026

Who has qualified for the 2026 World Cup?

Forty-two of the 48 teams in the 2026 World Cup were drawn in December, with the remaining six spots to be filled by the UEFA and intercontinental playoff winners.

Here is the full list of countries to qualify for the World Cup so far:

How do the World Cup playoffs work?

UEFA playoffs

Twelve of UEFA's 16 spots were taken by the group winners from the initial format of four or five-team groups. The 12 runners-up, along with the four best UEFA Nations League group winners that finished outside of the top two in their World Cup qualifying groups, enter the playoffs.

Those 16 teams were drawn into four paths with two single-game rounds. The seeded teams will be at home in the semifinals, with a home nation for the four finals drawn in advance. The winners from each path advance to the World Cup. UEFA is the only confederation without a representative in the inter-continental playoff.

The full draw and brackets for the UEFA playoffs are detailed here.

Intercontinental playoffs

The two teams in the six-nation playoff with the highest FIFA ranking are seeded. The four unseeded teams play an effective semifinal, with the two winners progressing to face a seed apiece to decide the final two places at the World Cup.

The four-game playoff will be used as a World Cup test event and played in two venues in Mexico, with some games at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara and others at Estadio BBVA in Monterrey.

World Cup qualifying pathways

The UEFA playoff paths, like their intercontinental counterparts, were placed into Pot 4 for the group-stage draw because the individual qualifiers were not known at the time. That meant a potentially more difficult group stage for the teams that progress.

The pathways were drawn as follows:

• UEFA Playoff A winner: Group B (Canada, Qatar, Switzerland)
• UEFA Playoff B winner: Group F (Netherlands, Japan, Tunisia)
• UEFA Playoff C winner: Group D (USA, Paraguay, Australia)
• UEFA Playoff D winner: Group A (Mexico, South Africa, South Korea)

Meanwhile, the intercontinental playoff winners will be drawn into Group K and Group I:

• FIFA Playoff 1 winner: Group K (Portugal, Uzbekistan, Colombia)
• FIFA Playoff 2 winner: Group I (France, Senegal and Norway)

WORLD CUP DRAW BREAKDOWNS:

Group A | Group B | Group C | Group D | Group E | Group F
Group G | Group H | Group I | Group J | Group K | Group L

World Cup playoffs schedule 2026

European playoffs

Pathway A

Semifinal

Final

Pathway B

Semifinal

Final

Pathway C

Semifinal

Final

Pathway D

Semifinal

Final

Intercontinental playoffs

Pathway 1

Semifinal

Final

Pathway 2

Semifinal

Final

SN's Kyle Bonn contributed to this article

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the trade market for Indianapolis Colts quarterback Antony Richardson has so far been soft—meaning longtime general manager Chris Ballard hasn’t been compelled to move him quite yet:

Despite reported initial interest from trade suitors such as the Cleveland Browns, Green Bay Packers, Los Angeles Rams, and Washington Commanders, Ballard himself has said that “nothing has materialized” earlier at the league meetings in Phoenix this week.

That doesn’t necessarily mean that those teams aren’t interested, it just means that none of those teams have come forward with a meaningful offer that has compelled the Colts to move Richardson at this time.

Realistically, the Colts could be looking at draft capital similar to the return that the San Francisco 49ers received for the former 3rd overall pick of the 2021 NFL Draft, Trey Lance, who was traded to the Dallas Cowboys for a 2024 4th round pick back in August of 2023.

Ideally, the Colts would still like to move Richardson and obtain meaningful value in return, but Ballard won’t trade him for the sake of purely trading him either—particularly for pennies on the dollar.

While the Colts would save $5.39M in a Richardson trade this offseason, that would be less than the current market rate to find a competent backup QB2 these days. The Colts already have 2nd-year quarterback Riley Leonard to potentially fill that QB2 role going forward, but he only has one career start under his belt.

It would still be surprising if Richardson remains on the roster until Week 1 of next year, after his camp requested permission to seek a trade. However, the Colts will pursue what’s best for them as well.

On Saturday night, Joe Pyfer got the biggest opportunity of his career with a UFC Seattle main event class against middleweight legend Israel Adesanya. While the former division king put up serious resistance and seemed to be getting the better of “BodyBagz,” the American’s power became too much for the New Zealander, and he scored the fourth knockout win of his UFC career.

The victory vaulted Pyfer into the UFC middleweight rankings and sets him up for some big matchups later this year. But who could he face next? We look at five potential options for the 29-year-old in his Octagon return.

Reinier de Ridder

The UFC may not want to push Pyfer into a clash with a top-five foe. But he deserves to face a fighter in the top 10. That is why former ONE Championship two-division titlist Reinier de Ridder could be an option. The Dutch grappler was where Pyfer is now last year. On a hot streak and in range of a title fight.

However, back-to-back losses have derailed his championship hopes. Nevertheless, both bring different strengths to a potential fight and would offer the other a serious test.

Anthony Hernandez

If the company did feel Pyfer is closing in on a title fight, a clash with someone like Anthony Hernandez would make sense. “Fluffy” was a win away from a title bout earlier this year. However, his loss to Sean Strickland dropped him down a peg. But a victory over a red-hot fighter like Pyfer would thrust him right back into the contender conversation.

For Pyfer, a win over a top-five fighter would quiet the doubters who aren’t sold on him yet because of the wins he has so far in the UFC.

Gregory Rodrigues

If the UFC wants to put “Bodybagz” into a fan-friendly scrap, Brazilian Gregory Rodrigues would be a strong option. “Robocop” has a similar fight style and thunder in his fists. He is also on a three-fight win streak and has been victorious in six of his last seven. The winner would be deserving of a matchup with a title contender in their next bout.

Jared Cannonier

The promotion could fall back on their traditional fighter-building strategy and give Pyfer a scrap with a big-name opponent well-removed from their prime. Similar to what they just did by booking him against Adesanya. In that case, former title challenger Jared Cannonier would be a fit.

He has been one of the middleweight division’s best fighters over the last five years, so getting his name on Pyfer’s resume would be a very nice addition. And after losing three of his last four, the rising star would be catching the 42-year-old on the way down.

Michael Page

While it would be very risky, the UFC could place Joe Pyfer in a clash with Michael Page. Company executives have quickly soured on the Englishman’s unique style. However, it is hard to cut a competitor who is 4-1 inside the Octagon.

But just a few weeks away from his 39th birthday, now may be the perfect time to put Pyfer in there with “Venom.” If he can score a knockout win, the company would love him for it because it would give them a reason to cut Page and his, at times, tough-to-watch fight style.

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While the AAA Louisville Bats got their 2026 regular season underway last week just like the big league Cincinnati Reds, the lower minors affiliates will begin their campaigns later this week. With that on the docket, the rosters for the respective Opening Days for the High-A Dayton Dragons (Thursday evening against the Lansing Lugnuts) and AA Chattanooga Lookouts (Friday against the Columbus Clingstones) have been finalized.

The Lookouts will feature top prospects like Cam Collier, Leo Balcazar, and Carlos Jorge among their position player ranks as well as former 1st round picks like Austin Hendrick and Jay Allen II. The pitching staff will be spearheaded by Jose Acuna (who returns after firing 71.2 IP of 3.64 ERA ball there last year) as well as veteran Kevin Abel, while Jose Montero (3.93 ERA in 103.0 IP with High-A Dayton in 2025) will also make the jump up a level into the rotation.

The Lookouts revealed their entire roster this morning, which you can see below.

Meanwhile, top prospect and catcher of the future Alfredo Duno will headline the roster of the Dayton Dragons, as the Reds pointed out on Twitter earlier in the day.

Dayton’s roster is largely comprised of players who spent considerable time with the club last year, though Duno is clearly the exception to that rule. He destroyed Florida State League pitching as a 19 year old in 2025 (.287/.430/.518 with 18 HR and a 95/91 BB/K ratio) before heading off to the Peoria Javelinas of the Arizona Fall League and showing out there, too.

What’s similarly interesting about Dayton’s roster, though, is who isn’t on it. Top prospect Tyson Lewis will apparently not be making the jump up a level to begin 2026 after he hit .268/.347/.417 there in 144 PA to finish 2025, his strikeout problems (51 in that time) likely something he’ll be asked to work on a bit first. Similarly, former NCAA dinger champ Mason Neville will not begin with Dayton after hitting .247/.333/.442 in 90 PA with Daytona last year, his own K-rate (34.4%) also a pretty glaring issue, while Arnaldo Lantigua will also seemingly stick around Daytona after 129 PA with them in his age-19 season.

The same is apparently true for Sheng-En Lin, who threw 16.2 IP for Daytona last year and is still focusing on pitching only after having been a two-way player prior to 2025.

The Daytona Tortugas have not yet released their roster, so we’ll need to wait for confirmation from them at some point later this week. It’s also worth pointing out that a number of names we otherwise would have seen on these rosters will begin the year on the minor league 60-day IL, with notable pitchers like Luke Holman and Carson Spiers there alongside infielder Ricky Cabrera.

Mar. 31—BOX SCORE

At Onalaska HS

RIVERHAWKS 13, LOGGERS 2 (5 inn.)

Toledo160 15 — 13

Onalaska010 10 — 2

TOL Pitching — Carver 3 IP, 1 H, 1 R (0 ER), 2 BB, 6 SO; Holter 2 IP, 1 H, 1 R (0 ER), 1 BB, 1 SO. Highlights — Cooper 4-4, 2B, 2 RBI, R; Hurley 3-4, 3B, 2 RBI, 2 R; Holter 1-2, HR, 2 RBI, 2 R, BB

ONY Highlights — Auman 1-2, 2B, RBI; Iverson 1-2, R

Nine of the 10 batters for the Riverhawks that got an at-bat recorded a hit and they did a lot of it on their way to a 13-2, five-inning cruiser over the Loggers on Monday night in Onalaska. Toledo finished the game with 18 hits and just five of them went for extra bases.

Its bottom of the lineup — six-through-nine — combined for 10 of those hits, paced by Audrey Cooper's four. Cooper, Xtyn Norberg, Ellie Seely, Peyton Holter and Camryn Hurley all notched two RBIs.

The Riverhawks (4-1) led wire-to-wire, ignited by a six-run second and a five-run fifth to enact the mercy rule win. For Onalaska (3-2), its three-game winning streak came to a close. Jaelyn Auman roped an RBI double and Peyton Iverson also had a hit.

Up next for the Loggers is another non-league bout on Tuesday versus Mossyrock. Meanwhile Toledo will battle Warden and Kittitas on Saturday.

Mar. 31—BOX SCORE

At Montesano HS

BULLDOGS 19, WARRIORS 0 (5 inn.)

Rochester000 00 — 0

Montesano087 4X — 19

ROC Highlights — Culp 1-2, SB; Morgan 1-2, SB

MON Pitching — Gooding 5 IP, 2 H, 0 ER, 0 BB, 6 SO. Highlights — Galvin 3-4, 2 2B, HR, 3 RBI, 4 R, 2 SB; Stanfield 3-4, 2B, RBI, 2 R, SB; Prince 3-4, 2B, RBI, 2 R, SB

When the two Evergreen League foes met in Richland for the top trophy last spring, it was a competitive seven-inning game. Monday night was the exact opposite in the Bulldogs' 19-0, five-inning rout of the Warriors.

Only Charlie Culp and Addi Morgan reached base for Rochester (1-6, 0-2 Evergreen) on one hit and one stolen base each. Montesano was in complete control from the second inning on, plating eight runs in the second, seven in the third and four in the fourth.

Taylor Galvin roped two doubles and a home run for the Bulldogs, who recorded 17 hits in 32 at-bats. Rochester and Montesano will tangle again on Thursday.

Club Atlético River Plate has launched a strategic search to revamp its football structure. According to information from The Athletic, the club’s leadership has two internationally prominent names as its main targets for the sporting director role: Ramón Planes, currently at Al Ittihad, and Pablo Longoria, former president of Olympique de Marseille.

Initial international contacts

The Núñez-based club has already held initial talks with both candidates to gauge their availability and learn about their plans. Planes brings extensive experience in European football, notably from his time at FC Barcelona, while Longoria is known for his modern and aggressive approach in the French transfer market.

A third candidate in the shadows

Although Planes and Longoria are the leading options, there is at least a third candidate on the shortlist whose identity has not yet emerged. River is looking for a profile that combines global experience with the ability to strengthen both its youth academy and first-team squad ahead of the upcoming international challenges.

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

Mar. 31—BOX SCORE

At Mossyrock HS

VIKINGS 7, MOUNTAINEERS 6 (10 inn.)

Rainier220 100 000 1 — 6

Mossyrock131 000 000 2 — 7

RAIN Pitching — Cruse 9 IP, 7 H, 7 R (1 ER), 3 BB, 6 SO. Highlights — Lantz 3-5, 2 2B, 2 RBI; Hill 3-5, 3 R, SB; Cruse 2-4, 2 RBI, BB

MOS Pitching — Zavodsky 10 IP, 8 H, 6 R (4 ER), 4 BB, 17 SO. Highlights — Zavodsky 2-4, 2B, 3 RBI, R; B. Schwartz 4-5, 2 2B, 2 RBI, 2 R, 3 SB; Ball 1-4, RBI

Behind the arm and the heroics of Zoella Zavodsky, the Vikings won a wild 7-6, 10-inning non-league contest versus the Mountaineers on Monday night at home. The eighth grader threw 170 pitches and struck out 17 in the circle for a complete game win

Down by one in the bottom of the 10th, Brooke Schwartz led off with a double and Kaylee Parker drew a walk to load the bases. Zavodsky needed just two pitches to poke a single to left field that brought home the winning two runs.

Mossyrock (3-3) did the majority of its scoring in the first three innings. Schwartz made it a one-run game with a two-RBI double and Taylor Schwartz tied the game at 4-4 by stealing home. Annika Ball gave the Vikings the lead in the third with a run-scoring single.

Rainier (1-3) took advantage of an error in the fourth to tie the game again and in the 10th, Gracie Green laid down a SAC bunt to take a 6-5 lead. Ryleigh Cruse also went the distance and tossed 106 pitches. Gracie Lantz had two doubles and two RBIs and Layla Hill notched three hits and scored three times.

The Mountaineers will take on Toutle Lake while Mossyrock battles Onalaska; both non-league contests are scheduled for Tuesday.

Mar. 31—BOX SCORE

At Tumwater HS

THUNDERBIRDS 6, HIGHCLIMBERS 4

Shelton000 000 4 — 4

Tumwater211 011 X — 6

SHEL Highlights — R. Rowland 1-4, 3B, 2 RBI; McFarland 1-3, R

TUM Pitching — Stevens 7 IP, 6 H, 4 R (0 ER), 3 BB, 15 SO. Highlights — McCartney 3-3, 2B, R, SB; Foos 1-2, RBI; Barrett 2-3, 2B, R, BB

For six shutout innings, Tumwater High School pitcher Sarah Stevens was in the midst of a standout performance with 12 strikeouts and only three walks given up. The southpaw got into some trouble in the seventh, but was able to keep Shelton at bay and give the T-Birds a 6-4 triumph on Monday night.

Two of Tumwater's three errors came in the seventh, which allowed two runners to score. Riley Rowland laced a two-run triple and cut the margin to two runs. Stevens capped her 15-strikeout performance by sending the tying run at the plate back to the dugout in three pitches.

The T-Birds (3-2, 1-2 EvCo) nickeled and dimed their way to a 6-0 lead behind two runs in the first and a run each over the next four of five frames. Chloe McCartney was 3-for-3 with a double and a stolen base while Stevens and Megan Barrett each registered two hits.

Tumwater will take on Adna on Tuesday in a rescheduled non-league contest on the road.

Mar. 31—BOX SCORES

At Pe Ell HS

TITANS 15, FISHERMEN 0 (3 inn.)

Ilwaco000 — 0

Pe Ell/WV834 — 15

ILW Highlights — Kemmer 1-1; Frame 1-1

PWV Pitching — Barnum 3 IP, 3 H, 0 ER, 3 BB, 5 SO. Highlights — Channel 3-3, 2B, 4 RBI, 3 R, SB; Hodel 2-3, 2 2B, 2 RBI; Matlock 3-3, 2B, RBI, 3 R, SB

TITANS 16, FISHERMEN 0 (3 inn.)

Pe Ell/WV376 — 16

Ilwaco000 — 0

PWV Pitching — Hodel 3 IP, 0 H, 0 ER, 1 BB, 4 SO. Highlights — I. Milanowski 3-3, 2 2B, 3 RBI, 2 R, SB; Keeton 2-3, 2 2B, 3 RBI, 2 R; S. Milanowski 1-2, HR, 3 RBI, R

ILW Highlights — Morris 0-1, BB

It took a grand total of six innings and 31 total runs to record a P2BL sweep for the Titans on Monday night, cruising past the Fishermen 15-0 and 16-0 at home. Pitchers Eliza Barnum and Jillian Hodel combined to allow three hits, four walks and struck out nine batters.

Hodel ended up tossing a three-inning no-hitter in Game 2. She also crossed home plate three times and in the opener, had two doubles and two RBIs. PWV (5-1) used eight runs in the bottom of the first, three in the second and four in the third to cap Game 1.

It registered seven doubles in the win and Rilyn Channel was 3-for-3 with four RBIs, three runs scored and a stolen base. Leadoff hitter Lauren Matlock also notched three hits and scored thrice.

Acting as the road team in the nightcap, the Titans took a 3-0 lead after one and tripled it with a seven-spot in the second and six more in the third. Izzy Milanowski roped two doubles and drove in three while Sophia Milanowski launched a three-run home run.

Matlock, Tylar Keeton and CJ Sipp all registered two hits in Game 2. PWV will host Napavine in a non-league contest on Tuesday.

Mar. 31—Thanks to a clean sweep in singles and their No. 3 doubles tandem pulling out a tiebreaker win, the Bearcats continued their stellar season with a 5-1 Evergreen Conference win over the Highclimbers on Monday.

Ellie Mittge didn't drop a game in her 6-0, 6-0 win at No. 1 singles, the same result Isabella Casimiro experienced at No. 2 singles. Maddie Bradley capped the sweep with a 6-1, 6-3 verdict.

"I am excited about the momentum we have," Bearcats head coach Megan Wellander said. "They are very competitive and want to grow. We have a young team, but we have a strong team."

Tinsley Brown and Mia Leslie won a thriller at No. 3 doubles 6-3, 6-7, 10-8. The third set ended up as a first to 10 decider. Kate Mordick and Kloey Sparks triumphed in straight sets at No. 2 doubles.

W.F. West will take on Centralia on Tuesday in the first Swamp Cup contest of the spring.

With the continued rise of artificial intelligence in nearly every aspect of everyday life, it’s no surprise that it’s found its way into the NFL with the Jets having now jumped on board and having discussions of their AI implementation and utilization during coaching meetings.

Head coach Aaron Glenn told reporters that AI has been a topic of conversation “quite a bit” during their meetings, with the organization putting an emphasis on familiarizing itself with the software available and learning what they can from their team of experts from Stanford University.

“These guys are on top of that,” Glenn said. “Those guys are teaching us how to utilize all of that stuff and it’s been outstanding so we’re trying to take that next step, us as coaches.”

Moving away or deviating from the old-school way of thinking isn’t a new concept as teams never want to be left behind in this day and age. And while teams are always looking for a competitive edge, there’s also a balance between technology and the human element that must be found.

For now, in the early stages of merging this new innovation with the coaching staff, New York is excited with the results.

“It’s been good and sometimes it’s shocking to see the information,” Glenn, who admitted he’s still trying to figure it all out, said. “Now, it’s not the only thing that you do, but to be able to see the information that you can get has been—”

Before Glenn could finish his thought, he was jokingly asked if he’s ever using AI to decide which play he should call.

“No, no,” he said with a laugh. “I’m trusting myself on that!”

For a second straight season John Calipari will bring his Arkansas Razorbacks to the Mitten State for a game against Tom Izzo and the Spartans.

While it was originally reported that Michigan State would head to Arkansas this upcoming season to complete a home-and-home series, it now appears the Razorbacks and Spartans will meet in the Motor City on Thanksgiving. On Tuesday, Spartans head coach Tom Izzo said on a local Lansing show that Michigan State will play Arkansas on Thanksgiving from Little Caesars Arena in Detroit. It was previously reported that Michigan State would play on Thanksgiving at Little Caesars Arena following the Detroit Lions' annual turkey day game at Ford Field, but the opponent had not been announced yet.

NEWS: Arkansas will play Michigan State on Thanksgiving Day at Little Caesar's Arena, Tom Izzo told Tim Staudt of WILX.

Initially the game was set to be in Fayetteville. Now it will follow the Lions' game on Thanksgiving in Detroit.

— JC Hoops (@JacksonCollier) March 31, 2026

The official announcement of this matchup has not been made so this could of course change. But I doubt Izzo would make a comment of this nature if it wasn't all but locked up to happen.

Michigan State hosted Arkansas in an early season ranked battle from the Breslin Center this past season, which the Spartans came out victorious. The Spartans were then expected to play at Arkansas this upcoming season as a return trip game as part of a home-and-home series. It'll be interesting to see if this change in plans is just pushing off a possible return trip game at Arkansas to the 2027-28 season or if that simply won't happen now.

We'll need to keep our eyes out for an official announcement over the next few weeks or months, but this should be a great matchup on Thanksgiving this year and now one that many Spartan fans should be able to attend in person.

Contact/Follow us @The SpartansWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Michigan State news, notes and opinion. You can also follow Robert Bondy on X @RobertBondy5.

This article originally appeared on Spartans Wire: MSU basketball to reportedly play Arkansas on Thanksgiving at LCA in Detroit

For the past two seasons, the Green Bay Packers have relied on the versatility of off-ball linebackers Quay Walker and Edgerrin Cooper.

However, knowing that Walker’s free agent price tag would be too costly, the Packers decided to trade for Indianapolis Colts linebacker Zaire Franklin. A 2024 second-team All-Pro, Franklin is coming off his worst season as a pro from a Pro Football Focus grade standpoint. Franklin struggled especially in coverage, posting a PFF coverage grade of 29.9, which ranked 32nd out of the 32 linebackers who dropped into coverage at least 500 times last season.

Cooper ranked second on that list, while Walker was 28th.

Even though dropping into coverage has never been much of a strength for Franklin in his eight NFL seasons, Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst still expects him to be able to be used interchangeably with Cooper.

“No, they’re both going to be responsible for that,” Gutekunst said when asked if Cooper would assume most of the coverage responsibilities. “Edge is such a unique player. He’s so versatile with his ability to play off the ball in the run game, to cover, to rush the passer; he’s really a complete linebacker, as is Zaire.”

Under former defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley, the Packers lined up in either their base or nickel defense on 97.6 percent of their plays in 2025 — almost never coming out in dime, according to data from Cody Alexander of MatchQuarters. Clearly, Hafley liked the idea of deploying both of his athletic linebackers as much as possible.

With Hafley exiting Green Bay after two seasons to become the head coach of the Miami Dolphins, Matt LaFleur hired former Arizona Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon to lead the defense.

Hafley’s propensity to keep at least two linebackers on the field aligns with what Gannon ran during his three years in Arizona.

So, if you thought you might see less of Franklin on obvious passing downs next season, think again. It won’t be anything new for Franklin, who has logged at least 575 coverage snaps in each of his last four seasons with the Colts. During that stretch, he allowed 249 catches on 312 targets for an allowed reception percentage of 79.8 percent, while also surrendering 2,582 receiving yards for 10.4 yards per reception.

Walker may not have excelled in coverage during his four seasons with the Packers, but he wasn’t quite as bad as Franklin. Together, his and Cooper’s skillsets complemented each other well and helped them anchor the middle of Hafley’s defense. Now, Cooper and Franklin are tasked with building similar chemistry in their first year playing alongside each other and in a new defensive scheme.

“Obviously, Quay and Edge had a nice working relationship,” Gutekunst said. “It’ll be interesting to see how that evolves under Jonathan’s new defense.”

This article originally appeared on Packers Wire: Despite struggles, don’t expect Packers LB Zaire Franklin to come off the field on passing downs

New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye is using his offseason to give back — and debut a new look.

Maye and his wife, Anne Michael, took center stage at Granite Telecommunications’ annual “Saving by Shaving” event on Tuesday in Quincy, where she helped shave his head to raise money for charity.

The fundraiser is expected to generate more than $3.5 million to benefit Boston Children’s Hospital, supporting pediatric research and treatments.

The couple said working with young patients has had a profound impact on them both.

“It’s such a cool experience to be able to shine a positive light and to be there for them and help in any way we can,” Drake Maye said. “There are times I’ve been with Boston Children’s Hospital patients, and it’s pretty cool...To do anything I can to try to put a smile on their face.”

Drake and Ann Michael, who were married recently and have made New England their new home, said giving back locally was a priority as they settle into the region.

Ann Michael said, “It’s obviously more than just football. There are so many great people and things here. We wanted to get more plugged in. Being from North Carolina, it’s so different here for us, so we wanted to start by giving back to the community and Boston Children’s.”

The couple also announced the launch of the “MayeDay Family Foundation,” a new nonprofit focused on supporting children and families in need.

For Maye, the message is clear: while football may be the job, making a positive impact off the field matters just as much.

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George Springer has been doing damage at the top of the Toronto Blue Jays lineup, and I’m expecting that trend to continue with Ryan Feltner on the mound for the Colorado Rockies. 

I explain why Springer matches up well in my free Toronto Blue Jays vs. Rockies predictions and MLB picks for Tuesday, March 31.

Rockies vs Blue Jays predictions

Rockies vs Blue Jays best bet: George Springer Over 0.5 RBI (+145)

It’s been a bit of a slower start to the year for George Springer, but he’s still finding ways to drive in runs with an RBI in three-straight games.

Springer has also had a lot of career success against the Colorado Rockies, with a 1.012 OPS and eight RBI in 45 at-bats. He can add to that tally against Ryan Feltner, who has a career strikeout rate of 19.5% and struggles to limit damage. 

The confidence in his pick is coupled with the belief that the bottom of the order will reach base for Springer to drive them in. The Jays’ 7-9 hitters have been the most productive to start the season, combining for 18 hits and six walks through the first four games this season.

COVERS INTEL: Feltner has a 33% usage rate on his four-seamer, a pitch that Springer handled well with a .307 batting average last season and an xSLG rate of .746.

Rockies vs Blue Jays same-game parlay (SGP)

Jesus Sanchez has faced Feltner more than any other Blue Jays batter, going 4-for-11 with two homers against him. 

Max Scherzer takes the bump for Toronto, and I’m expecting the Jays’ high strikeout trend to continue with him on the mound. He racked up 10 strikeouts against this lineup last season in 20 at-bats, and he may be asked to work deeper into the game after Cody Ponce was forced to leave Monday's game with an injury.

Rockies vs Blue Jays SGP

• George Springer Over 0.5 RBI
• Jesus Sanchez Over 0.5 hits
• Max Scherzer Over 5.5 strikeouts

Rockies vs Blue Jays home run pick: Jesus Sanchez (+510)

In addition to owning Feltner with a 1.273 OPS, he has done the bulk of his damage against right-handed pitching. Sixty-five of his 74 career home runs have come against righties.

Rockies vs Blue Jays odds

• Moneyline: Colorado +225 | Toronto -280
• Run line: Colorado +1.5 (-145) | Toronto -1.5 (+125)
• Over/Under: Over 9 (-120) | Under 9 (+100)

Rockies vs Blue Jays trend

The Toronto Blue Jays have hit the Game Total Over in 85 of their last 148 games (+23.75 Units / 15% ROI) Find more MLB betting trends for Rockies vs. Blue Jays.

How to watch Rockies vs Blue Jays and game info

Rockies vs Blue Jays latest injuries

Rockies vs Blue Jays weather

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

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The 2025 Grey Cup saw the Saskatchewan Roughriders capture their first championship in over 10 years, holding on to defeat the Montreal Alouettes 25-17.

Despite the loss, CFL odds remain bullish on Montreal ahead of the upcoming campaign, as Jason Maas’s team has reached the East Final in three consecutive seasons, including winning the Grey Cup in 2023.

The 113th Grey Cup is scheduled for November 15, 2026, at McMahon Stadium in Calgary, Alberta.

2026 Grey Cup odds

Team
Montreal Alouettes	+300
BC Lions	+400
Saskatchewan Roughriders	+600
Hamilton Tiger-Cats	+700
Calgary Stampeders	+800
Winnipeg Blue Bombers	+850
Toronto Argonauts	+1000
Ottawa Redblacks	+1100
Edmonton Elks	+1800

Odds as of 3-31-2026. Odds from BET99, one of our best betting sites. Sign up with our BET99 promo code, or get one of our other sportsbook promos.

Grey Cup trends

• Edmonton has won the most Grey Cup titles (11) during the league’s post-merger era.

• The CFL’s Most Outstanding Player has been a member of the Grey Cup-winning team just four times since 2010.

• There have been just 10 instances of a Grey Cup-winning team repeating as champions the following season.

Past Grey Cup winners

As noted above, having such a small league and lots of player movement promotes a lot of parity among the teams. Seven of the nine current CFL clubs have won a Grey Cup over the last 10 seasons.

The Toronto Argonauts have the most Grey Cup titles in league history with 17, while the Winnipeg Blue Bombers lead the CFL with 27 Grey Cup appearances.

Season	Grey Cup Champion	Runner-up
2025	Saskatchewan Roughriders	Montreal Alouettes
2024	Toronto Argonauts	Winnipeg Blue Bombers
2023	Montreal Alouettes	Winnipeg Blue Bombers
2022	Toronto Argonauts	Winnipeg Blue Bombers
2021	Winnipeg Blue Bombers	Hamilton Tiger-Cats
2020	No season: COVID-19 related.	N/A
2019	Winnipeg Blue Bombers	Hamilton Tiger-Cats
2018	Calgary Stampeders	Ottawa Redblacks
2017	Toronto Argonauts	Calgary Stampeders
2016	Ottawa Redblacks	Calgary Stampeders

Understanding CFL futures

Sportsbooks release CFL futures odds shortly after the end of the previous football season. Picking the outright winner of the Grey Cup is one of the only other ways to wager on CFL futures.

During the offseason and preseason, you'll be able to get a nice plus-money price on basically any team in the CFL, as there is so much uncertainty around what will happen next year, particularly in a league with only nine teams.

CFL futures odds will usually look like this:

• BC Lions +500

This means that on a $100 bet, you'll stand to profit $500 should Nathan Rourke & Co. capture their first Grey Cup title since 2011. If it's close to the end of the season or one team is simply that dominant, you might see a minus sign (-) ahead of their odds.

• Saskatchewan Roughriders -175

This means that you would need to bet $175 to win $100 if Saskatchewan wins the Grey Cup.

Of course, futures odds are a fluid market. They can change every day based on news, injuries, suspensions, etc. And they will certainly change based on big CFL events, such as free agency or the draft.

All the odds seen above are in American format. If you find decimal format or fractional format easier to read, simply convert the odds using our simple odds converter tool.

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

Scotland step up their preparations for this summer’s World Cup by hosting Ivory Coast - but the international friendly will be staged in England and at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium in Liverpool.

Steve Clarke’s team faced Japan at Hampden on Saturday but the Tartan Army will be heading down the road and away from their traditional home on Tuesday night as Everton’s new ground hosts its first men’s international fixture.

• Scotland v Ivory Coast LIVE: Latest score and updates from pre-World Cup friendly

Officially, the fixture is part of marketing agency Pitch International’s ‘Road to 26’ series - which has featured a number of games between teams who have qualified for the World Cup, staged at neutral venues.

The majority of the ‘Road to 26’ series has been played in the United States, such as the friendlies between France and Brazil in Boston, France and Colombia in Maryland, and Brazil and Croatia in Orlando, Florida.

Scotland’s match against Ivory Coast also falls under the series, but with the three-time African champion facing South Korea in Milton Keynes on Saturday and Scotland playing Japan in Glasgow, holding the match in Liverpool suited both parties.

Scotland will play Morocco during the group stages of the World Cup while Ivory Coast will face Germany, so arranging a warm-up test against African and European opposition also suited both nations ahead of the tournament.

The match works for Everton, too, with the £800m, 52,769-capacity venue set to host matches when the home nations stage Euro 2028. England’s Lionesses will also be playing a World Cup qualifier there, against Ukraine in June.

David Moyes, Everton’s manager, said he was looking forward to welcoming the Tartan Army and the Ivory Coast. “No doubt that night will see Liverpool full of lots of kilted men and I hope you make them all welcome,” the Scot said in a message to Everton supporters.

Scotland’s Nathan Patterson plays for Everton, with the right back following a long line of Scots who played for the Toffees - such as Graeme Sharp, Duncan Ferguson, David Weir, Andy Gray, James McFadden, Pat Nevin and Steven Naismith.

Everton have also said that culinary delights from both nations will be served, confirming a slow-cooked “Ivorian beef stew” will be on the menu along with “Stornoway black pudding loaded jacket potatoes”, “haggis and smoked bacon pizza” and “battered Mars bar with whisky custard”.

Scotland last played in Liverpool when Wales decided to hold a key 1978 World Cup qualifier against the Tartan Army at Anfield, but goals from Don Masson and Kenny Dalglish earned the ‘away’ side victory that secured passage to the touranment in Argentina.

The New York Knicks have been up and down with results lately, recently falling back into the loss column with a road defeat at the hands of the Oklahoma City Thunder.

One player who has been underwhelming thus far in his New York tenure is forward Jeremy Sochan, who was signed by the team following his release from the San Antonio Spurs.

Sochan signed a one-year, $806,628 contract this offseason with the franchise for the 2025-26 season, according to Spotrac.

The forward has long been known for his colorful hairstyles, which at certain times mirrored the orange and blue colors of the Knicks themselves. However, a newly unearthed photo ahead of New York’s game against the Houston Rockets on Tuesday has revealed a different new look for the forward.

Jeremy Sochan hasn’t impressed with performances since joining Knicks

Jeremy Sochan hasn’t performed particularly well during his tenure with the Knicks, not having appeared in a game since March 22 despite being fully healthy.

When he’s on his game, Sochan provides the New York Knicks with another versatile defender who can get out in transition and wreak havoc on both ends of the floor.

However, it seems that New York head coach Mike Brown is content with running with the guys who have been there all season, along with trade acquisition Jose Alverado, for the stretch run of the campaign.

The team currently sit in third place in the East, multiple games behind the Celtics despite Boston’s loss against the Atlanta Hawks on Monday.

It would take quite a bit for New York to catch up to Boston at this point in the season; however, homecourt advantage didn’t end up mattering when the Knicks beat the Celtics in last year’s Eastern Conference semifinals.

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THE SKINNY

Height/Weight: 6-foot-0, 170 pounds
Hometown/High School: Pittsburgh, PA (Central Catholic)
Ranking: ★★★ (87 Rivals — No. 86 cornerback overall)
Notable Offers: Ole Miss, Indiana, Pitt, Stanford, West Virginia, Virginia Tech, Wisconsin

HIGHLIGHTS

OUTLOOK

Penn State gets a second commitment in its 2027 recruiting class as Zachary Gleason joins four-star fellow cornerback Semajay Robinson to make the pledge for the Nittany Lions. Gleason seems tailor made for Penn State, being a Pittsburgh kid who plays cornerback. It’s not very often Terry Smith misses on those recruitments, so while it’s not a shocker that Gleason made the call for Penn State, it’s still good to get a quality player like Gleason in the fold.

Gleason is what you’d expect from a prospect playing at one of the premier programs in the state, Pittsburgh Central Catholic. You can already see that he’s well-coached and has a good base for development. He’ll need to get much bulkier, as he currently has a 170-pound frame, but Gleason has the makings of a kid who can play at Penn State, and one that could play early too.

No. 21 Northwestern men’s swim and dive wrapped up a historic season at NCAA Division I Championships on Friday night, placing 26th after breaking four new school records at the McAuley Aquatic Center for its best finish at the meet since 2008.

Down in Atlanta, the Wildcats were led by star swimmers Stuart Seymour and Joshua Staples, who combined for three individual school records and three top-16 finishes in individual events. Staples logged the Northwestern’s best individual finish of the weekend, placing eighth in the 400-yard individual medley to become the first Wildcat since Jordan Wilimovsky in 2017 to make the A-final in an event at NCAAs. Meanwhile, Seymour set school records in the 100-yard backstroke and 100-yard freestyle events, while contributing to the ‘Cats’ school record setting 400-yard freestyle relay.

In the broader scheme of the meet, the Texas Longhorns, led by legendary head coach Bob Bowman, won their second-consecutive national championship, with a scoring total of 445.5. The Longhorns were followed by the Florida Gators, who took second, and the Big Ten champion Indiana Hoosiers, who took third. Florida’s Josh Liendo won high point of the meet, powered by his 42.49 in the 100-yard butterfly which shattered Caeleb Dressel’s legendary NCAA-record in the event. Texas’ Hubert Kos, brother of Northwestern’s very own Oliver Kos, placed second in the high point standings, setting NCAA-records in both the 100- and 200-yard backstroke events. Arizona State’s Ilya Kharun placed third.

Results for the NCAA Division I Championships can be found on the Meet Mobile app or on SwimCloud’s meet page for the event.

Meet Recap

After not scoring at NCAAs in 2025, Northwestern placed 26th at the championships this year with a total of 39 points. The ‘Cats’ 26th-place finish was its highest since 2008, when Northwestern finished 12th at NCAAs with a Matt Grevers-led unit.

Northwestern was led by its star sophomore talent Joshua Staples, who became the first ’Cat to reach the A-final in the 400-yard individual medley since 2004. Staples’ school record 3:36.58 in prelims seeded him third-place in the event entering finals. Had he matched his time in finals, he would’ve placed sixth. However, the Aussie ended up adding 6.33 seconds to his prelims swim, finishing eighth in the event.

Seemingly, Staples suffered from an injury of some sort following his prelims swim in the 400-yard individual medley. The Brisbane-native was not the same swimmer in his consequent individual swims, adding significant time not only in his finals swim of the 400-yard individual medley, but also his 2oo-yard individual medley prelims swim on day four of the meet, where he clocked a 1:47.96 — over six seconds off of his personal best. Though, his 50.46-split in the 100-yard breastroke as a part of the ‘Cats’ 400-yard medley relay was a competitive time, so perhaps Staples was just battling fatigue in his other individual swims.

Seymour was the Wildcats’ other standout individual performer. The junior gained All-American honorable mention status with top-16 finishes in both the 100-yard butterfly (15th) and 100-yard backstroke (11th). Furthermore, Seymour set two new school records in Atlanta with a 44.55 in the 100-yard backstroke and 41.76 in the 100-yard freestyle.

Though Staples and Seymour were the ‘Cats’ only individual point scorers, there were other notable individual performances. Adam Cohen had a solid performance in platform diving, placing 17th with a score of 348.30. Additionally, Oliver Kos placed 18th in the 200-yard backstroke with a time of 1:39.50 and David Gerchik placed 28th in the 100-yard backstroke with a personal best 45.37.

Northwestern also scored points in both the 400-yard medley relay and 400-yard freestyle relay. The 400-yard freestyle relay was a highlight event of the meet for the ‘Cats, with Seymour, Cade Duncan, Connor Schuster and Kos teaming up to post a school record time of 2:47.72, placing 12th in the event. Meanwhile, Seymour, Staples, Schuster and Duncan teamed up in the 400-yard medley relay to place 12th with a time of 3:02.18.

One Big Observation

It’s hard to truly contextualize how incredible of a breakthrough this season was for Northwestern men’s swim and dive.

After grand successes in the Matt Grevers years at the end of the 2000s, the ‘Cats slowly declined. For almost a decade, they sent small contingents to NCAAs, sometimes stumbling upon a breakout swimmer like Jordan Wilimovsky who would score them some points, but most time failing to score at the NCAAs at all. Northwestern hit rock bottom at the end of the 2010s, sending zero swimmers to NCAAs for two-consecutive years in 2018 and 2019. The program was broken, with no resemblance to the team that placed eighth at NCAAs in 2007.

Just last year, Northwestern was still nowhere close to national relevance. Despite sending a contingent of four individual swimmers to NCAAs, the ‘Cats went scoreless at the competition, with Seymour just missing out on a B-final swim with a 17th-place 45.22 in the 100-yard backstroke. Amazingly, Staples didn’t even swim the 400-yard individual medley event until this season. Staples was purely a distance freestyler and swam the 1650-yard freestyle and 500-yard freestyle at NCAAs.

With core swimmers like Seymour, Staples and Gerchik still young, it seemed clear that Northwestern had the chance to make strides in the 2025-26 season. However, if you had told head coach Rachel Stratton-Mills that Joshua Staples was going to A-final in the 400-yard individual medley — not a distance freestyle event — at NCAAs AND that her squad was going to place 26th, she would have called you crazy.

For the first time in almost two decades, it finally feels fair to say that Northwestern is relevant on the national scene. The ‘Cats 26th place finish is the program’s best since Grevers’ final season in 2008. In a sport driven by star power, Northwestern finally has found national-level talent. The ‘Cats had not one, but two individual point scorers at NCAAs in Staples and Seymour. As mentioned earlier, Staples, who is only a sophomore, became the ‘Cats’ first A-finalist in ANY event since Jordan Wilimovsky in 2017.

The tides are finally changing in Evanston. Stratton-Mills has done an incredible job with this team and the program should only continue to grow. With impact NCAA-qualifiers Staples, Seymour, Kos and Duncan all returning next year to swim alongside a high-level incoming recruiting class, make it be known: the ‘Cats are coming.

With NFL free agency at a near standstill, we will be evaluating the current state of each Indianapolis Colts' position group, specifically, where things stand and whether or not more moves need to be made.

GM Chris Ballard has now made nine outside free agent signings over the last week-plus, along with re-signing a number of the Colts' own free agents.

However, there is still work to be done, as the Colts still have several roster holes to address. The good news is that the Colts have a good amount of salary cap space to work with.

In the draft, the Colts are without a first-round pick and have a modest seven selections in total.

Rounding out our review is the special teams unit. If you missed our other positional reviews, you can find them below.

• Quarterbacks
• Running backs
• Wide receivers
• Tight ends
• Offensive line
• Defensive ends
• Defensive tackles
• Linebackers
• Cornerbacks
• Safeties

Colts specialists under contract

• Spencer Shrader
• Blake Grupe
• Luke Rhodes
• Rigoberto Sanchez

Colts free agency moves on special teams

• The Colts re-signed free agent Blake Grupe.

What is the need on special teams for the Colts after free agency?

There is no need here. Grupe and Spencer Shrader will be competing for the Colts' kicking job, but no other additions have to be made to this unit.

One thing to watch is that Rigoberto Sanchez is in the final year of his deal and is a candidate to receive a contract extension prior to next offseason's free agency period beginning.

This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: NFL free agency: Current state of Colts' special teams unit

As incredible as their season was, the New England Patriots didn’t quite have enough to win Super Bowl LX. Yet, since that 29-13 loss to Seattle, one could argue that the Patriots have only gotten better.

While swapping Stefon Diggs for Romeo Doubs could either backfire or be a sneaky great signing, the Patriots have already strengthened one of their biggest weaknesses by signing left guard Alijah Vera-Tucker and backup left tackle James Hudson III. While the line is undoubtedly improved, has Drake Maye‘s receiving corps gotten worse?

No matter how you feel about the Diggs/Doubs swap, one thing that cannot be denied is that the Patriots could use another playmaking pass-catcher. The solution could be available via trade.

Recently, Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel was asked about the A.J. Brown trade rumors. To no surprise, New England is open to adding the Pro Bowl receiver to their team, for the right price.

“Anything that we can continue to do to strengthen the roster, we’re going to try to do,” Vrabel said.

Of course, one of the biggest reasons why the Patriots are often the first team linked to a trade for the Eagles receiver is because Vrabel was Brown’s head coach with the Titans from 2019 to 2021. Despite the Titans’ general manager at the time trading Brown to the Eagles, the receiver has always had a strong relationship with coach Vrabel.

With the Patriots reaching the Super Bowl in 2025, New England fits the criteria of the type of team Brown would likely want to play for, and already being familiar with the head coach surely can’t hurt. Yet, if the Eagles’ asking price is just too high, then New England may move on to younger, more inexpensive options in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Related: 2026 NFL Mock Draft: End of March Edition

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With the calendar turning to April, we are officially heading into draft month. The NFL world will descend upon Pittsburgh in just over three weeks, with the draft scheduled for April 23-25.

Mock drafts are going to come fast and furious over these last three weeks of the draft cycle. The latest for the Cincinnati Bengals will come here as we go through a full seven-round mock, using the draft simulator on Stick to the Model. With this mock, we are experimenting with the Bengals moving into the top five to land their target. With that, let's get started.

No. 5 (projected trade with Giants) - Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State

The Bengals trade their third-round pick this year (No. 72 overall) and a 2027 third-round pick to the New York Giants to get the linebacker they so desperately need. After watching both of their rookie linebackers struggle in 2025, the Bengals need a major boost in the middle of the defense. Styles' athleticism would be a major welcome addition to the Bengals' defense. Styles is a safety in a linebacker's body. Styles might be the best fit for the Bengals in this class and the Bengals should feel more than comfortable trading two thirds, especially when they are projected to receive a third-round compensatory pick next year for Trey Hendrickson.

No. 41 - Keith Abney II, CB, Arizona State

The Bengals get their new cornerback in the second round and land a versatile corner in Keith Abney of Arizona State. Abney can work inside or outside and recorded 12 passes defended last season and 21 over the last two seasons. He doesn't have ideal size (5'10", 187 pounds) but his instincts help overcome his size. He gives Al Golden some flexibility in the defensive backfield.

No. 110 - Jaishawn Barham, LB/Edge, Michigan

Barham can be a hybrid player on the edge. He has flashed ability at both off-ball linebacker and on-ball edge. He can also play inside or outside. He helped his cause quite a bit by posting a 4.64 40-yard dash at the Scouting Combine. Barham has plenty of experience, having started 47 games in four seasons between Michigan and Maryland and recording four sacks and ten tackles for a loss in 2025.

No. 189 - Albert Regis, DT, Texas A&M

A near-300-pound space-eater in the middle of the defense, adding depth behind B.J. Hill and Jonathan Allen. Regis had 49 tackles, three tackles for a loss and two sacks in 2025.

No. 199 - James Brockermeyer, IOL, Miami

The Bengals roll the dice on an undersized center at just under 300 pounds, but will get the chance to develop for a year behind Ted Karras and potentially compete for a starting job in 2027.

No. 221 - VJ Payne, S, Kansas State

Payne has experience at multiple safety spots and has the run-tackling ability and closing speed to help on special teams.

No. 226 - Jadon Canady, CB, Oregon

Canady gives the Bengals another option at the nickel position. He's only 5'10" and 181 pounds, but scouts love his ability to stick with receivers throughout their routes. He will likely get overmatched by bigger bodies, but he has the potential to develop into a starting nickel, giving the Bengals two potential starting defensive backs from this group.

This article originally appeared on Bengals Wire: Bengals aggressive with Round 1 trade up in 7-round NFL mock draft

LONDON (AP) — Bayern Munich star Harry Kane was missing for England in its friendly match against Japan on Tuesday after sustaining what the national team described as a “minor issue in training.”

England said its captain was being “rested tonight as a precaution” but was staying with the squad and receiving further assessment.

England coach Thomas Tuchel was already without Arsenal pair Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice, saying Monday that they felt “discomfort” during medical assessments.

Kane, Saka and Rice all face busy ends to the season with their clubs, who have both reached the Champions League quarterfinals and lead their respective leagues.

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

MIAMI -- The Philadelphia 76ers came up short to the Miami Heat in a critical loss in terms of the playoff standings. The Heat now own the all-important tiebreaker should they find a way to catch the Sixers in the standings. Philadelphia is currently 1.5 games ahead of Miami with seven games to go.

Joel Embiid scored 26 points on the night, but he shot only 10-for-25 and he seemed a step slow on the defensive end, especially when the Heat made the game-changing run to seal it. He got off to solid start as he had nine points in the opening quarter and had 14 by halftime, but he shot only 1-for-5 in the third and was a minus-15 in the quarter as Miami went on a surge after halftime.

After a rest, Embiid returned to score 10 points in the fourth, but missed some critical ones late.

"Keep getting better," Embiid said after the loss. "I thought tonight we had stretches where we were pretty good, but then some were not. I was a big part of that. I gotta be better. So, yeah, I was terrible tonight. Just gotta be better."

"Terrible" might be Embiid just getting down on himself. He is his biggest critic, but there were some moments where he just seemed completely off. He then revealed a key factor for his tough night that slowed him down a bit.

"Well, first, I wish I wasn't sick," he stated. "So, maybe that would have helped to play better. So, physically, I just was not in it, and then secondly, obviously, if the first part was better, then I guess I would have had more energy to do all the things. So yeah, just gotta take off myself and get out of it and play better."

The Sixers have an off day on Tuesday before finishing their 3-game trip on Wednesday against the Washington Wizards.

This article originally appeared on Sixers Wire: Sixers star Joel Embiid evaluates his performance in road loss to Heat

The Falcons brought in veteran quarterback Tua Tagovailoa in free agency, a move that evoked strong responses from fans and analysts alike. Kevin Knight discusses why he believes Tua is a perfect fit for the Falcons as an ideal competitive partner for Michael Penix Jr. Fellow Falcoholics, welcome to another episode of the Dirty Birds and Brews podcast!

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Brazil and Croatia meet in a high-profile friendly in Orlando, with both teams using the game to fine-tune their plans for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States.

The Selecao come into this match still searching for consistency, and Carlo Ancelotti is clearly using this period to experiment with his squad and tactics.

They have lost three of their last six games, and their latest result was a 2-1 loss to 10-man France at Gillette Stadium, where Gleison Bremer scored but the team failed to make late pressure count.

Brazil’s attack has plenty of options, but defensive organisation remains a concern, especially with several experienced players missing through injury.

Brazil team news

Ancelotti has said that Vinícius Júnior and Marquinhos have shaken off recent fitness problems and are ready to play at Camping World Stadium, which is a major boost at both ends of the pitch.

Brazil also lost Raphinha to a thigh problem during the defeat to France, with reports indicating he will be sidelined for around a month. Wesley Franca picked up a muscle injury during the same match.

Neymar’s continued absence from the national team remains a major talking point, but the coach has repeatedly stressed that Neymar, Vinícius and any other star will only go to the World Cup if they are “100 per cent fit”, insisting that current form and fitness matter more than reputation.

This friendly could also give chances to newer faces such as Igor Thiago and Rayan, who are part of the group as Ancelotti puts the finishing touches on what he has described as an already “quite defined” squad for the 2026 World Cup.

Brazil predicted lineup

Possible Brazil starting XI: Ederson; Ibanez, Bremer, Marquinhos, D. Santos; Henrique, A. Santos, Casemiro, Martinelli; Cunha, Pedro

When will the match kick off?

The match will kick off at 1am BST on Wednesday, 1st April.

How to watch Brazil vs Croatia?

For viewers in the UK, Croatia vs Brazil will be broadcast live on ITV4, with the match also available to stream on ITVX.

Read – Chelsea midfielder Fernandez fuels Real Madrid transfer talk

See Also – The five favourites to sign Sandro Tonali from Newcastle

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Argentina and Zambia meet in an international friendly in Buenos Aires on Tuesday, one of their last home matches before the 2026 World Cup in North America.

La Albiceleste come into this game in excellent form, with four straight wins behind them. Their most recent outing was a 2-1 victory over Mauritania on 28 March, when Enzo Fernández and Nico Paz found the net in what was described as a tense, hard-fought contest.

Scaloni is using this positive run to sharpen his team’s approach and has chosen to start Lionel Messi in this match to give the attack more fluidity from the beginning.

Argentina team news

Gonzalo Montiel and Leonardo Balerdi dropped out before the Mauritania game because of injury problems, and forward Joaquín Panichelli is now sidelined for the long term after tearing his anterior cruciate ligament.

Scaloni has made it clear that Messi, who came off the bench in the last match, will be in the starting XI against Zambia.

He suggested that Argentina will begin with their usual spine of key players, explaining that this fixture serves as their final major test.

He added that later in the game he intends to introduce some younger players, but the plan is to open with his most trusted lineup.

Scaloni has already handed in a 55-man provisional list for the World Cup and will decide on the final squad after assessing how his players perform in this window.

Argentina predicted lineup

Possible Argentina starting XI: Martinez; Molina, Romero, Senesi, Tagliafico; Simeone, Mac Allister, De Paul, Barco; Messi, Alvarez

When will the match kick off?

The match will kick off at 12:15am BST on Sunday, 1st April.

How to watch Argentina vs Zambia?

For supporters in the UK, the best option is to consult local TV and streaming providers’ schedules to see which broadcaster is carrying the match in their region.

Read Also – The five favourites to win the 2026 World Cup

See More – Tuchel says England need ‘top performance’ to beat Japan

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Belgium and Mexico meet in a World Cup warm-up friendly at Soldier Field in Chicago, with both teams using the game to fine-tune plans for the 2026 tournament.

The Red Devils head into this fixture on a high after a 5-2 win over the United States in their opening game of the international break. Emerging players such as Zeno Debast, Amadou Onana, Charles De Ketelaere and Dodi Lukebakio stood out in that match, highlighting coach Rudi García’s intention to mix rising stars with the remaining figures from the country’s golden generation.

Belgium team news

García is expected to rotate his side, with big names like Kevin De Bruyne, Jérémy Doku and De Ketelaere likely to start on the bench and be used later in the game.

Youri Tielemans, now fully fit, could return to the starting XI and line up alongside his Aston Villa colleague Amadou Onana, taking on the more advanced midfield role while experienced Axel Witsel provides balance behind them.

At the back, Koni De Winter and Arthur Theate are candidates to start in central defence, and Timothy Castagne may come in at right-back in place of Thomas Meunier.

Further forward, Lukebakio is expected to keep his spot on the right after scoring twice on Saturday, with promising Ajax winger Mika Godts likely to start on the left.

Lois Openda, who has had a difficult loan spell at Juventus, could lead the line as he looks to rebuild his confidence.

In goal, Matz Sels is in contention to replace Senne Lammens, with García still weighing up who should act as backup to the injured Thibaut Courtois at the World Cup. Leandro Trossard of Arsenal has pulled out of the squad and will not be involved.

Belgium predicted lineup

Possible Belgium starting XI: Sels; Castagne, De Winter, Theate, De Cuyper; Onana, Witsel; Lukébakio, Tielemans, Godts; Openda.

When will the match kick off?

The match will kick off at 2am BST on Wednesday, 1st April.

How to watch Mexico vs Belgium?

For viewers in the UK, there is no single confirmed national broadcaster.

Read – Chelsea midfielder Fernandez fuels Real Madrid transfer talk

See Also – The five favourites to sign Sandro Tonali from Newcastle

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Former US Open champion Michelle Wie West says she is coming out of retirement to play at the major later this year.

West is a five-time winner on the LGPA Tour with her sole major triumph coming at Pinehurst in 2014.

The 36-year-old last competed on the Tour at the US Open three years ago, but aims to play again at the major, which begins on 4 June in Pacific Palisades, California, to make use of her final year of eligibility.

Players who win the US Open are invited back to compete for the following 10 years, but Wie West's stint was extended by two years to 2026 due to maternity leave.

"With one final year of eligibility from my victory in 2014 and the championship headed to an iconic venue that means so much to me, I am excited to announce that I'll be teeing it up at the US.Women's Open at Riviera in June," she wrote on X.

Wie West rose to prominence at an early age and was once tipped to emulate men's 15-time major-winner Tiger Woods' sporting success.

She was the youngest to win an adult USGA championship at 13, and the youngest to make the cut at an LPGA major in the 2003 Kraft Nabisco, aged 14.

After more than 20 years in the spotlight, Wie West, who has two children, left the sport adding that her body was struggling to cope with the rigours of professional golf.

Wie West's return to the Tour follows her announcement in February that she will be competing in the women's version of the TGL at the end of the year.

Los Angeles Dodgers two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani will make his first start of the 2026 season against the Cleveland Guardians on Tuesday.

Ohtani is the final starter in the Dodgers’ rotation to make a start, and will look to keep the ball rolling after a strong spring training effort. Ohtani made two appearances on the mound for the Dodgers this spring, allowing three runs through 8.1 innings of work.

He allowed just one hit through four innings in his first appearance while striking out four batters, earning a win against the San Francisco Giants.The right-hander pitched four innings in his second appearance in an exhibition match against the Los Angeles Angels, and struck out 11 batters while allowing three runs.

The reigning MVP made his pitching debut for the Dodgers in 2025, and had a solid campaign in his return to the mound. He made 14 starts for LA last year, posting a 2.87 ERA through 47 innings pitched. He recorded 62 strikeouts in that time, working his way up to six innings pitched by the end of the season.

As a pitcher, Ohtani has an even 3.00 ERA through 528 innings pitched in his career, and has a fourth-place Cy Young finish under his belt. The Dodgers will hope he can settle in early in the season and show how dominant he can be as a pitcher.

How has Shohei Ohtani Performed So Far in 2026?

Through the first four games of the season, Ohtani has struggled to produce results at the plate. He has just two hits through 12 at-bats in his four games, but has scored two runs and walked twice.

Despite his slow start, manager Dave Roberts believes he—along with struggling teammates Freddie Freeman and Kyle Tucker—will get back on the right track soon.

“I am surprised that they got off to a slow start, but you just never really know,” Roberts said after the Dodgers’ loss to the Cleveland Guardians on Tuesday. “Spring training is just not predictive. It’s just not. I think for me, the takeaway is we’re 3-1 and the guys that we expect to swing the bats aren’t swinging the bats right now. So that’s a good thing. They’ll hit.”

Ohtani will look to get off to a good start on the mound and get back on track at the plate Tuesday against the Guardians. First pitch is at 7:10 p.m. PT.

Are you confident ahead of Shohei Ohtani’s first start of the year?