11 days ago
The Denver Broncos were in a desperate situation entering the 2026 AFC Championship Game against the New England Patriots. With starting quarterback Bo Nix injured and missing the game, the team reportedly reached out to Hall of Famer Drew Brees to see if he was interested in what could have been one of the most surreal moments in the sport's history.
The Broncos had homefield advantage, but were dealt a cruel blow with Nix breaking his ankle late in their Divisional Round overtime win against the Buffalo Bills. Backup Jarrett Stidham started the game and in blizzard-like conditions, could only muster seven points as the Patriots won 10-7 to advance to the Super Bowl.
But what if it was one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time under center for the Broncos that day?
ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that the Broncos did indeed reach out to Drew Brees to gauge his interest in an improbable comeback. Considering that Sean Payton coaches the Broncos and the pairing is one of the most successful in NFL history while winning a Super Bowl with the New Orleans Saints, it's easy to see why Denver made the call. Brees and Payton are the second-winningest QB/Coach combo in NFL history, only behind Tom Brady and Bill Belichick.
Of course, there would have been one major obstacle to overcome. Drew Brees had just turned 47 and hadn't played a competitive NFL game since January 17, 2021 in a playoff loss to Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. However, Brees wouldn't have been alone in making an incredible return as Philip Rivers had come out of five years of retirement to play three games for the injury-plagued Indianapolis Colts. While Rivers went 0-3 as a starter, he completed 63% of his passes and threw 4 TDs to 3 INTS.
#super #payton
The Broncos had homefield advantage, but were dealt a cruel blow with Nix breaking his ankle late in their Divisional Round overtime win against the Buffalo Bills. Backup Jarrett Stidham started the game and in blizzard-like conditions, could only muster seven points as the Patriots won 10-7 to advance to the Super Bowl.
But what if it was one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time under center for the Broncos that day?
ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that the Broncos did indeed reach out to Drew Brees to gauge his interest in an improbable comeback. Considering that Sean Payton coaches the Broncos and the pairing is one of the most successful in NFL history while winning a Super Bowl with the New Orleans Saints, it's easy to see why Denver made the call. Brees and Payton are the second-winningest QB/Coach combo in NFL history, only behind Tom Brady and Bill Belichick.
Of course, there would have been one major obstacle to overcome. Drew Brees had just turned 47 and hadn't played a competitive NFL game since January 17, 2021 in a playoff loss to Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. However, Brees wouldn't have been alone in making an incredible return as Philip Rivers had come out of five years of retirement to play three games for the injury-plagued Indianapolis Colts. While Rivers went 0-3 as a starter, he completed 63% of his passes and threw 4 TDs to 3 INTS.
#super #payton
13 days ago
BERLIN (AP) — Breanna Stewart was part of the U.S. Olympic team that beat France by one point in Paris two years ago.
The U.S. captain feels that victory has no barring on the rematch Sunday for the women's FIBA World Cup **** le.
"This is a completely new game and everybody has their own things that continue to motivate them," Stewart said after the U.S. topped Spain 76-66 in a semifinal Saturday. "I think that what I will continue to be preaching to this team is 'we're going to turn the page on everything.' This is one game to win the the gold medal at the World Cup in Berlin and that's our entire focus."
It's easy for Stewart to say that as more than half the U.S. roster in the World Cup wasn't on that Olympic team. Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese and Paige Bueckers are playing for their first championship with the national team. Stewart's already won three World Cup **** les since making her debut in 2014.
Kahleah Copper was a huge reason the U.S. was able to beat France two years ago. She had 12 points in that game.
#stewart #team #olympic
The U.S. captain feels that victory has no barring on the rematch Sunday for the women's FIBA World Cup **** le.
"This is a completely new game and everybody has their own things that continue to motivate them," Stewart said after the U.S. topped Spain 76-66 in a semifinal Saturday. "I think that what I will continue to be preaching to this team is 'we're going to turn the page on everything.' This is one game to win the the gold medal at the World Cup in Berlin and that's our entire focus."
It's easy for Stewart to say that as more than half the U.S. roster in the World Cup wasn't on that Olympic team. Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese and Paige Bueckers are playing for their first championship with the national team. Stewart's already won three World Cup **** les since making her debut in 2014.
Kahleah Copper was a huge reason the U.S. was able to beat France two years ago. She had 12 points in that game.
#stewart #team #olympic
15 days ago
MORRAL — Forget beating a rival in a Northwest Central Conference match. Elgin was just happy to be back on the volleyball court.
The Comets hadn't played a match in 12 days and just once in the last 18. Still, Elgin showed very little rust Thursday, Sept. 10, at Ridgedale, winning in three sets 25-19, 25-13, 25-21.
"They were ready to just get back on the court and not against each other," Elgin coach Caitlin Gracely said.
It was a scheduling quirk and not by design, she said, as a couple matches had to be moved to later in the season. Thus, they had a long layoff just days after the start of the 2026 season.
"I'm thankful for the break being in the beginning and not in the middle (of the season). That's the only thing I can be thankful for. I did not like that," Gracely said. "You can't give them a bunch of days off. You give them all the time off and they just mentally check out. We do not want that."
#season
The Comets hadn't played a match in 12 days and just once in the last 18. Still, Elgin showed very little rust Thursday, Sept. 10, at Ridgedale, winning in three sets 25-19, 25-13, 25-21.
"They were ready to just get back on the court and not against each other," Elgin coach Caitlin Gracely said.
It was a scheduling quirk and not by design, she said, as a couple matches had to be moved to later in the season. Thus, they had a long layoff just days after the start of the 2026 season.
"I'm thankful for the break being in the beginning and not in the middle (of the season). That's the only thing I can be thankful for. I did not like that," Gracely said. "You can't give them a bunch of days off. You give them all the time off and they just mentally check out. We do not want that."
#season
18 days ago
How Orioles' Gunnar Henderson could land with Mets originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Gunnar Henderson's time with the Baltimore Orioles may be running low.
With the Orioles on the outside of the postseason bracket, the Orioles could consider trading him this offseason or next summer.
Baltimore's front office showed that they aren't afraid to move fan favorites midseason, sending catcher Adley Rutschman to the Boston Red Sox at this year's trade deadline.
It does not appear likely that Henderson will re-sign with the Orioles when he becomes a free agent in 2029. However, his recent play may be tanking his trade value.
#henderson #source
Gunnar Henderson's time with the Baltimore Orioles may be running low.
With the Orioles on the outside of the postseason bracket, the Orioles could consider trading him this offseason or next summer.
Baltimore's front office showed that they aren't afraid to move fan favorites midseason, sending catcher Adley Rutschman to the Boston Red Sox at this year's trade deadline.
It does not appear likely that Henderson will re-sign with the Orioles when he becomes a free agent in 2029. However, his recent play may be tanking his trade value.
#henderson #source
19 days ago
The Inner Circle 30 delivers an emotionally charged night of five action-packed Muay Thai bouts on Friday, September 11. Streaming live and exclusively for subscribers at live.onefc.com in Asia primetime, the card goes down from Bangkok's iconic Lumpinee Stadium.
A World ******* le defense, a legendary farewell, and fighters stepping out of famous shadows converge for a card that carries genuine weight from the first bell to the last.
Here are three reasons to clear your schedule and tune in on Friday.
In the main event, ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Champion Rambolek Chor Ajalaboon puts his 26 pounds of gold on the line for the very first time. His reign is tested immediately by surging challenger Yod-IQ Or Pimolsri, a man absolutely determined to claim the throne for himself.
Rambolek made history as the first fighter to earn a coveted US$100,000 contract from ONE Friday Fights, collecting multiple performance bonuses along the way.
#muay #World #live
A World ******* le defense, a legendary farewell, and fighters stepping out of famous shadows converge for a card that carries genuine weight from the first bell to the last.
Here are three reasons to clear your schedule and tune in on Friday.
In the main event, ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Champion Rambolek Chor Ajalaboon puts his 26 pounds of gold on the line for the very first time. His reign is tested immediately by surging challenger Yod-IQ Or Pimolsri, a man absolutely determined to claim the throne for himself.
Rambolek made history as the first fighter to earn a coveted US$100,000 contract from ONE Friday Fights, collecting multiple performance bonuses along the way.
#muay #World #live
20 days ago
Michigan's fans are facing criticism for their reaction to a controversial win against Western Michigan on Saturday.
The Wolverines pulled off a miracle win on the final play, with Bryce Underwood heaving a Hail Mary pass one play after the game clock appeared to expire. Michigan won 13-12 against the MAC opponent, prompting fans to rush the field — an action that drew resounding criticism.
Michigan had struggled throughout the game, scoring just 7 points before their final drive ended in a controversial touchdown. The game initially appeared over when Underwood threw a Hail Mary attempt through the back on the end zone, but referees put 1 second back on the clock after ruling that it touched a Western Michigan defender who was out of bounds.
Underwood scrambled before heaving to the end zone, where JJ Buchanan came down with the ball.
Michigan's fans stormed onto the field after the win, which the ESPN broadcast called out and many fans online criticized. The Wolverines came into the game as 27.5-point favorites and trailed for much of the game before winning on the game's final play.
#underwood #final #hail
The Wolverines pulled off a miracle win on the final play, with Bryce Underwood heaving a Hail Mary pass one play after the game clock appeared to expire. Michigan won 13-12 against the MAC opponent, prompting fans to rush the field — an action that drew resounding criticism.
Michigan had struggled throughout the game, scoring just 7 points before their final drive ended in a controversial touchdown. The game initially appeared over when Underwood threw a Hail Mary attempt through the back on the end zone, but referees put 1 second back on the clock after ruling that it touched a Western Michigan defender who was out of bounds.
Underwood scrambled before heaving to the end zone, where JJ Buchanan came down with the ball.
Michigan's fans stormed onto the field after the win, which the ESPN broadcast called out and many fans online criticized. The Wolverines came into the game as 27.5-point favorites and trailed for much of the game before winning on the game's final play.
#underwood #final #hail
22 days ago
Just as they did in the preseason, the Los Angeles Rams listed Stetson Bennett as the No. 2 quarterback on their unofficial depth chart for Week 1. That put Ty Simpson as the QB3 behind Matthew Stafford and Bennett, but the Rams don't view the rookie as a third-stringer.
Sean McVay said on Friday that while Bennett is second on the depth chart, he views Stetson and Simpson as 2A and 2B behind Stafford.
That obviously wasn't the case with Jimmy Garoppolo and Bennett last season, but with two young quarterbacks on the roster, the Rams want to make sure both of them get reps during practice. Compared to last year, when Garoppolo was getting all the scout team reps, the Rams plan to split them accordingly between Bennett and Simpson.
Sean McVay said that while the depth chart lists Stetson Bennett IV as QB2 and Ty Simpson as QB3, he looks at it as "2A, 2B."
Explaining why this is different than previous years, McVay said Jimmy Garoppolo took all of the scout team reps when he was the backup, whereas this…
After the final preseason game, which Bennett sat out, McVay declined to name a backup quarterback. Simpson played well all summer, as did Bennett, making the competition much more interesting than some expected.
#simpson #mcvay #garoppolo #stafford
Sean McVay said on Friday that while Bennett is second on the depth chart, he views Stetson and Simpson as 2A and 2B behind Stafford.
That obviously wasn't the case with Jimmy Garoppolo and Bennett last season, but with two young quarterbacks on the roster, the Rams want to make sure both of them get reps during practice. Compared to last year, when Garoppolo was getting all the scout team reps, the Rams plan to split them accordingly between Bennett and Simpson.
Sean McVay said that while the depth chart lists Stetson Bennett IV as QB2 and Ty Simpson as QB3, he looks at it as "2A, 2B."
Explaining why this is different than previous years, McVay said Jimmy Garoppolo took all of the scout team reps when he was the backup, whereas this…
After the final preseason game, which Bennett sat out, McVay declined to name a backup quarterback. Simpson played well all summer, as did Bennett, making the competition much more interesting than some expected.
#simpson #mcvay #garoppolo #stafford
22 days ago
A win at Darlington counts the same in the standings as any other NASCAR Cup Series victory. But the Southern 500 has never been just another race.
First run in 1950, the Southern 500 has grown into one of NASCAR's crown-jewel races, combining more than 75 years of history with a Labor Day tradition and a winner's list filled with some of the sport's biggest names.
Why the Southern 500 Is One of NASCAR's Crown-Jewel Races
Darlington Raceway opened in 1950 as NASCAR's first paved superspeedway and hosted the inaugural Southern 500. Seventy-five cars entered and roughly 25,000 fans showed up to watch, but it was Johnny Mantz, the slowest qualifier in the entire field, who ultimately won. While other drivers spent the race battling tire failures, Mantz used hard-compound truck tires to outlast the field and drive his way into NASCAR history. Darlington Raceway
Over the decades, the Southern 500 became closely tied to Labor Day weekend and established itself among NASCAR's biggest events. Its status was reinforced in 1985 when the race became one of four included in the Winston Million, a $1 million bonus available to a driver who could win three of NASCAR's major races. Bill Elliott secured the bonus by winning the Southern 500 that year, and Jeff Gordon repeated the accomplishment in 1997. NASCAR
#southern #race
First run in 1950, the Southern 500 has grown into one of NASCAR's crown-jewel races, combining more than 75 years of history with a Labor Day tradition and a winner's list filled with some of the sport's biggest names.
Why the Southern 500 Is One of NASCAR's Crown-Jewel Races
Darlington Raceway opened in 1950 as NASCAR's first paved superspeedway and hosted the inaugural Southern 500. Seventy-five cars entered and roughly 25,000 fans showed up to watch, but it was Johnny Mantz, the slowest qualifier in the entire field, who ultimately won. While other drivers spent the race battling tire failures, Mantz used hard-compound truck tires to outlast the field and drive his way into NASCAR history. Darlington Raceway
Over the decades, the Southern 500 became closely tied to Labor Day weekend and established itself among NASCAR's biggest events. Its status was reinforced in 1985 when the race became one of four included in the Winston Million, a $1 million bonus available to a driver who could win three of NASCAR's major races. Bill Elliott secured the bonus by winning the Southern 500 that year, and Jeff Gordon repeated the accomplishment in 1997. NASCAR
#southern #race
23 days ago
LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Los Angeles Dodgers remain uncertain whether designated hitter Shohei Ohtani will pitch again this season.
The two-way superstar hasn't pitched in a game since July 3 because of lingering pain in his left knee and right biceps. Ohtani threw a 20-pitch bullpen session last Friday but was scratched from a potential start at Detroit two days later.
"I think physically he's in a good spot," manager Dave Roberts said Wednesday. "I haven't heard otherwise as far as him ailing, whether it's the arm, the knee. Everything that he's told me and the training staff, he feels good."
Roberts said that until he sees Ohtani throw another bullpen he won't know the next step in his pitching progression.
Asked if it's possible Ohtani won't pitch again this season, Roberts said, "It's an option."
#whether #season
The two-way superstar hasn't pitched in a game since July 3 because of lingering pain in his left knee and right biceps. Ohtani threw a 20-pitch bullpen session last Friday but was scratched from a potential start at Detroit two days later.
"I think physically he's in a good spot," manager Dave Roberts said Wednesday. "I haven't heard otherwise as far as him ailing, whether it's the arm, the knee. Everything that he's told me and the training staff, he feels good."
Roberts said that until he sees Ohtani throw another bullpen he won't know the next step in his pitching progression.
Asked if it's possible Ohtani won't pitch again this season, Roberts said, "It's an option."
#whether #season
24 days ago
Denny Hamlin posted an 11th-place finish in last Saturday's ***** e Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona. However, there was confusion on the driver of the No. 11's end on why he finished where he did.
Based on the timing of when the caution came on the final lap of Saturday's NASCAR Cup Series race, Hamlin believes he scored a top-10 result. Instead, the 45-year-old was ranked 11th, while Josh Berry earned a ninth-place run.
The call to place Hamlin 11th left the Cup Series points leader puzzled after the race.
It did not matter to Hamlin where he finished at Daytona. Because the Joe Gibbs Racing star had already locked up the top seed for the Chase, he was not concerned about points.
However, Hamlin had a discussion with NASCAR following the race as he revealed on his "Actions Detrimental" podcast. Hamlin plans to have a follow-up discussion about the caution light procedure in the future to avoid future misunderstandings.
#race #daytona #however
Based on the timing of when the caution came on the final lap of Saturday's NASCAR Cup Series race, Hamlin believes he scored a top-10 result. Instead, the 45-year-old was ranked 11th, while Josh Berry earned a ninth-place run.
The call to place Hamlin 11th left the Cup Series points leader puzzled after the race.
It did not matter to Hamlin where he finished at Daytona. Because the Joe Gibbs Racing star had already locked up the top seed for the Chase, he was not concerned about points.
However, Hamlin had a discussion with NASCAR following the race as he revealed on his "Actions Detrimental" podcast. Hamlin plans to have a follow-up discussion about the caution light procedure in the future to avoid future misunderstandings.
#race #daytona #however
28 days ago
Tarik Skubal had not even thrown a pitch Friday night before Detroit made its feelings pretty clear.
As Skubal walked to the bullpen mound around 6:32 p.m. ET to begin warming up for his first start at Comerica Park as a member of the Los Angeles Dodgers, fans throughout the ballpark rose to their feet and applauded the former Tigers ace.
Then came the real moment.
After Skubal completed his bullpen session and began walking back toward the Dodgers dugout, the Tigers played a video tribute to Skubal on the Comerica Park scoreboard.
As you can see in the video below, Skubal appeared emotional (biting his upper lip) as he made his way toward the dugout, while the still-filling stadium gave him another warm ovation.
#comerica #Dodgers
As Skubal walked to the bullpen mound around 6:32 p.m. ET to begin warming up for his first start at Comerica Park as a member of the Los Angeles Dodgers, fans throughout the ballpark rose to their feet and applauded the former Tigers ace.
Then came the real moment.
After Skubal completed his bullpen session and began walking back toward the Dodgers dugout, the Tigers played a video tribute to Skubal on the Comerica Park scoreboard.
As you can see in the video below, Skubal appeared emotional (biting his upper lip) as he made his way toward the dugout, while the still-filling stadium gave him another warm ovation.
#comerica #Dodgers
29 days ago
The Los Angeles Rams put the finishing touches on an unbeaten preseason led mostly by strong quarterback play. They held onto a last-minute surge by the Los Angeles Chargers to maintain a 20-18 lead.
Sunday brings an important deadline in the NFL calendar. All 32 teams must soon cut to their initial 53-man regular season rosters. The "Winners & Losers" list is largely shaped by those who helped build their case, although the framework is mostly set by those who sat out of Thursday night's finale.
Who performed well on an individual level against the other LA team? Which players are watching their stock fall?
Ty Simpson came into Thursday night's game with the lowest average depth of target (ADOT) among all rookie quarterbacks—by far. Simpson averaged 4.80 air yards in the first two preseason games. That mark improved to 6.1 yards against the Chargers. That would still rank last among all first-year signal callers.
Simpson completed 18 of 23 passes (78%) for 119 yards and an impressive touchdown throw on the run. He finishes the preseason 47 of 60 (78%) for 382 yards, three scores, zero turnovers, and a passer rating of 109.9.
#last
Sunday brings an important deadline in the NFL calendar. All 32 teams must soon cut to their initial 53-man regular season rosters. The "Winners & Losers" list is largely shaped by those who helped build their case, although the framework is mostly set by those who sat out of Thursday night's finale.
Who performed well on an individual level against the other LA team? Which players are watching their stock fall?
Ty Simpson came into Thursday night's game with the lowest average depth of target (ADOT) among all rookie quarterbacks—by far. Simpson averaged 4.80 air yards in the first two preseason games. That mark improved to 6.1 yards against the Chargers. That would still rank last among all first-year signal callers.
Simpson completed 18 of 23 passes (78%) for 119 yards and an impressive touchdown throw on the run. He finishes the preseason 47 of 60 (78%) for 382 yards, three scores, zero turnovers, and a passer rating of 109.9.
#last
30 days ago
Roma is working to provide Gian Piero Gasperini with an attacking winger to complement the lineup of Dybala, Soulé, Mora, and Pellegrini, while excluding the three central attackers Malen, Castro, and Vaz.
A key player is still missing; the lack of a left winger with the ability to sprint at pace is palpable. D'Amico's eyes are on Malick Fofana and Gittens.
Gasp is confident that the Friedkins have been convinced to make one last effort, but there are no significant progress signs for either the Lyon or Chelsea winger. However, beware of potential surprises.
Gian Piero Gasperini expects another striker from the current transfer window, which ends on September 1st at 8:00 PM.
As Corriere della Sera reports, sporting director Tony D'Amico is keeping in mind an alternative, which he has been quietly working on, in addition to Gittens and Fofana.
#piero #gittens #dybala #soul
A key player is still missing; the lack of a left winger with the ability to sprint at pace is palpable. D'Amico's eyes are on Malick Fofana and Gittens.
Gasp is confident that the Friedkins have been convinced to make one last effort, but there are no significant progress signs for either the Lyon or Chelsea winger. However, beware of potential surprises.
Gian Piero Gasperini expects another striker from the current transfer window, which ends on September 1st at 8:00 PM.
As Corriere della Sera reports, sporting director Tony D'Amico is keeping in mind an alternative, which he has been quietly working on, in addition to Gittens and Fofana.
#piero #gittens #dybala #soul
1 month ago
When the Patriots traded Kayshon Boutte to the Texans this week, much of the focus was on the Texans' need for a wideout and New England's increased depth at receiver.
Patriots executive vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf had a different view when asked about the deal at a Tuesday press conference. Wolf acknowledged that the team feels "really good about our receiver group," but focused on the opportunity to acquire safety Jaylen Reed after liking what they saw from him heading into the 2025 draft.
"Jaylen was a guy that we identified in the draft process as someone that we might pick, and he ended up going before we could take him," Wolf said, via a transcript from the team. "We followed his career last year with Houston and thought it was pretty remarkable that, as a rookie who hadn't played much during the regular season, they trusted him enough to play the majority of the playoff games. We just continued to follow him, and when we determined that he might be available, he was someone that we wanted to acquire."
Wolf said that there is "no concern" about trading Boutte to a team that they could be competing with for a playoff spot in the AFC and a full accounting of the trade will likely wait until we find out how the two teams wind up stacking up come the end of the season.
#team
Patriots executive vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf had a different view when asked about the deal at a Tuesday press conference. Wolf acknowledged that the team feels "really good about our receiver group," but focused on the opportunity to acquire safety Jaylen Reed after liking what they saw from him heading into the 2025 draft.
"Jaylen was a guy that we identified in the draft process as someone that we might pick, and he ended up going before we could take him," Wolf said, via a transcript from the team. "We followed his career last year with Houston and thought it was pretty remarkable that, as a rookie who hadn't played much during the regular season, they trusted him enough to play the majority of the playoff games. We just continued to follow him, and when we determined that he might be available, he was someone that we wanted to acquire."
Wolf said that there is "no concern" about trading Boutte to a team that they could be competing with for a playoff spot in the AFC and a full accounting of the trade will likely wait until we find out how the two teams wind up stacking up come the end of the season.
#team
1 month ago
Manchester United have completed the signing of Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba in a deal worth up to £70 million ($95 million).
After securing a Champions League return with last season's third-place finish, there has been a focus on bolstering Michael Carrick's midfield heading into the new Premier League campaign.
United saw influential Casemiro depart and Manuel Ugarte sustain a serious knee injury during a summer in which Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans arrived from Chelsea and Aston Villa respectively.
Baleba becomes the third Premier League player to bolster the Red Devils' midfield, signing a five-year-deal with the option to extend for a further 12 months after agreeing a £65 million deal plus £5 million in add-ons and a sell-on with Brighton.
"It is an incredible feeling to join the club of my dreams. Playing at Old Trafford is always special but the opportunity to do so as a Manchester United player will be a real honour," the Cameroon international said.
#million
After securing a Champions League return with last season's third-place finish, there has been a focus on bolstering Michael Carrick's midfield heading into the new Premier League campaign.
United saw influential Casemiro depart and Manuel Ugarte sustain a serious knee injury during a summer in which Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans arrived from Chelsea and Aston Villa respectively.
Baleba becomes the third Premier League player to bolster the Red Devils' midfield, signing a five-year-deal with the option to extend for a further 12 months after agreeing a £65 million deal plus £5 million in add-ons and a sell-on with Brighton.
"It is an incredible feeling to join the club of my dreams. Playing at Old Trafford is always special but the opportunity to do so as a Manchester United player will be a real honour," the Cameroon international said.
#million
1 month ago
Aug. 23—GRAND FORKS — UND wide receiver Sam Strandell started last season with knee injuries on Day 6 of fall camp.
Those injuries lingered. He wore a heavy brace on his knee. Then he had a groin injury in the spring. Then there was an appendicitis operation in the offseason.
After spending the fall and spring on the sideline in 2025, Strandell had a decision to make this summer — retire or stick it out one more year?
"I talked to the coaches the weekend before fall camp and that Friday night me and my dad went on a bike ride through Riverside," Strandell said of his old neighborhood in north Grand Forks. "It was late at night, and I guess I was just thinking back to like when I was a kid in Riverside. I feel like he would really want me to play, and I feel like down the road I would probably regret not, too. I enjoy football. When I'm healthy and I'm playing football, it's the most fun I have."
Strandell's journey back to the field reached a milestone earlier this week when he was honored by his teammates as a two-time captain of the Fighting Hawks.
#strandell #injuries #spring
Those injuries lingered. He wore a heavy brace on his knee. Then he had a groin injury in the spring. Then there was an appendicitis operation in the offseason.
After spending the fall and spring on the sideline in 2025, Strandell had a decision to make this summer — retire or stick it out one more year?
"I talked to the coaches the weekend before fall camp and that Friday night me and my dad went on a bike ride through Riverside," Strandell said of his old neighborhood in north Grand Forks. "It was late at night, and I guess I was just thinking back to like when I was a kid in Riverside. I feel like he would really want me to play, and I feel like down the road I would probably regret not, too. I enjoy football. When I'm healthy and I'm playing football, it's the most fun I have."
Strandell's journey back to the field reached a milestone earlier this week when he was honored by his teammates as a two-time captain of the Fighting Hawks.
#strandell #injuries #spring
1 month ago
The Kansas City Chiefs will look to secure their first preseason win since 2023 on Saturday when they face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in humid West Florida weather.
As they headed to the locker room at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, quarterback Patrick Mahomes and tight end Travis Kelce displayed their unique fashion sense in front of fans and reporters.
Mahomes wore an all-navy outfit, including a navy-blue knitted Chiefs polo with matching pants, bright red sneakers, and his signature Oakley sunglasses.
Kelce wore a pink-striped Nahmias polo, a fresh pair of khaki cargo shorts, a white cap with the 1587 restaurant logo, and a multicolored leather weekender bag.
Take a look at what the rest of Kansas City's players wore ahead of their pivotal Week 2 preseason game against Tampa Bay:
#wore #mahomes #kelce #preseason
As they headed to the locker room at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, quarterback Patrick Mahomes and tight end Travis Kelce displayed their unique fashion sense in front of fans and reporters.
Mahomes wore an all-navy outfit, including a navy-blue knitted Chiefs polo with matching pants, bright red sneakers, and his signature Oakley sunglasses.
Kelce wore a pink-striped Nahmias polo, a fresh pair of khaki cargo shorts, a white cap with the 1587 restaurant logo, and a multicolored leather weekender bag.
Take a look at what the rest of Kansas City's players wore ahead of their pivotal Week 2 preseason game against Tampa Bay:
#wore #mahomes #kelce #preseason
1 month ago
Paige Bueckers and Caitlin Clark had a small altercation during the Indiana Fever's loss to the Dallas Wings on Thursday.
Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers are widely considered by many WNBA fans as the two young superstars fighting to become the face of the league.
Both have been enjoying excellent seasons with their respective teams, who clashed once again on Thursday. The Dallas Wings secured the win, but it was a tight contest.
Emotions always run high in games of this magnitude. And when they boiled over between Bueckers and Clark during the game, it was a moment that made fans take notice.
Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images
#indiana
Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers are widely considered by many WNBA fans as the two young superstars fighting to become the face of the league.
Both have been enjoying excellent seasons with their respective teams, who clashed once again on Thursday. The Dallas Wings secured the win, but it was a tight contest.
Emotions always run high in games of this magnitude. And when they boiled over between Bueckers and Clark during the game, it was a moment that made fans take notice.
Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images
#indiana
1 month ago
Well, here's an interesting story — Pape Matar Sarr might actually have a market. According to AfricaFoot (not really a Tier 1 source but interesting nonetheless), Galatasaray have an interest in the Senegalese midfielder and have gone as far as to agree personal terms with Sarr, but as of the time of this posting the clubs haven't come to an agreement over a transfer fee.
The report states that the personal agreement is for wages in Turkey of €9m/year which comes out to about £148k/wk. What it does NOT state is whether those wages are gross, or if they're net — Turkey is pretty well-known for being able to offer incredible wages to footballers because they have favorable tax situations there. It's famously why Victor Osimhen is at Galatasaray right now and not an actually good football club, and why actually good football clubs are hesitant to try and purchase him because he's on absolutely insane gross wages there.
The article also suggests Gala are wanting a three year contract for Sarr. It doesn't state whether the clubs are actually in talks at all, and so if any of this is true I'd expect to see it in the English papers before too long. Transfermarkt, which is notoriously unreliable when it comes to actual player values, lists Sarr as being worth around £25m, but who knows what he'll actually go for.
Sarr has been a player linked with an exit this summer for a while now, and it wouldn't surprise me if he goes. He's a player with a lot of utility and a motor that lasts for days, but he hasn't developed the technical skills that Spurs hoped for when they signed him from Metz a few years ago. He probably needs a fresh start somewhere else and I can see him doing well in Turkey or a return to Ligue 1.
#wages #turkey #interesting #personal
The report states that the personal agreement is for wages in Turkey of €9m/year which comes out to about £148k/wk. What it does NOT state is whether those wages are gross, or if they're net — Turkey is pretty well-known for being able to offer incredible wages to footballers because they have favorable tax situations there. It's famously why Victor Osimhen is at Galatasaray right now and not an actually good football club, and why actually good football clubs are hesitant to try and purchase him because he's on absolutely insane gross wages there.
The article also suggests Gala are wanting a three year contract for Sarr. It doesn't state whether the clubs are actually in talks at all, and so if any of this is true I'd expect to see it in the English papers before too long. Transfermarkt, which is notoriously unreliable when it comes to actual player values, lists Sarr as being worth around £25m, but who knows what he'll actually go for.
Sarr has been a player linked with an exit this summer for a while now, and it wouldn't surprise me if he goes. He's a player with a lot of utility and a motor that lasts for days, but he hasn't developed the technical skills that Spurs hoped for when they signed him from Metz a few years ago. He probably needs a fresh start somewhere else and I can see him doing well in Turkey or a return to Ligue 1.
#wages #turkey #interesting #personal
1 month ago
Five players in the Australian Football League (AFL) have been banned for late-night drinking and inviting women to a hotel after a weekend match in Melbourne.
The Sydney Swans' Isaac Heeney, Chad Warner, Nick Blakey, James Jordon and Riley Bice have been stood down from Australian Rules football's top league for the rest of the season, the club announced.
The suspension comes after detectives in Melbourne began an investigation into an alleged ******* ual ******* ault, said to have to taken place in the early hours of Monday morning at the Pullman Hotel where the players were staying after the match.
None of the players have been arrested or charged in the investigation.
Sydney Swans chairman Andrew Pridham apologised to fans, players and the wider community on Wednesday.
#melbourne #sydney #hotel #match
The Sydney Swans' Isaac Heeney, Chad Warner, Nick Blakey, James Jordon and Riley Bice have been stood down from Australian Rules football's top league for the rest of the season, the club announced.
The suspension comes after detectives in Melbourne began an investigation into an alleged ******* ual ******* ault, said to have to taken place in the early hours of Monday morning at the Pullman Hotel where the players were staying after the match.
None of the players have been arrested or charged in the investigation.
Sydney Swans chairman Andrew Pridham apologised to fans, players and the wider community on Wednesday.
#melbourne #sydney #hotel #match
1 month ago
NASCAR announced Tuesday it will not return to Chicago in 2027.
NASCAR officials previously said they would not return to downtown Chicago for 2026, but planned to return in 2027.
Chicago's first ever NASCAR street race was hosted in 2023.
NASCAR will return to the Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet June 25-27.
SEE ALSO | NASCAR Chicago Street Race will not return in 2026, could come back in 2027
#street #tuesday #chicagoland #june
NASCAR officials previously said they would not return to downtown Chicago for 2026, but planned to return in 2027.
Chicago's first ever NASCAR street race was hosted in 2023.
NASCAR will return to the Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet June 25-27.
SEE ALSO | NASCAR Chicago Street Race will not return in 2026, could come back in 2027
#street #tuesday #chicagoland #june
1 month ago
The Oklahoma Sooners have done a fantastic job over the last few years identifying in-state talent to make a part of the roster. In the 2027 recruiting class, Oklahoma has commitments from some of the best players in the nation in Gabriel Osborne, Cooper Hackett, Kaeden Penny, and Greydon Howell. But they're also moving the needle on some of the top players in the state in 2028.
Over the weekend, Oklahoma issued an offer to 2028 three-star wide receiver Kenyon Sweat out of Cache, Okla. After the offer, it didn't take long for predictions to favor the Oklahoma Sooners in his recruitment. Rivals national recruiting ****** yst Sam Spiegelman and SoonerScoop.com's Josh McCuistion issued predictions favoring the Sooners.
It's just his sixth offer in the cycle, but Sweat has a strong offer sheet that includes Tennessee, Texas Tech, Iowa State, Oklahoma State, and UConn, along with the Sooners.
The 6-0, 173-pound wide receiver wins with great speed and contact balance. In the highlights, there are a number of bubble screens that he turned into touchdowns. Sweat displays good lateral agility and quickness and really good hands in the passing game. He lined up primarily in the slot or in the backfield.
Sweat looks like a player who will play primarily out of the slot and has the speed to be effective in the short game and to get downfield for big plays.
#oklahoma
Over the weekend, Oklahoma issued an offer to 2028 three-star wide receiver Kenyon Sweat out of Cache, Okla. After the offer, it didn't take long for predictions to favor the Oklahoma Sooners in his recruitment. Rivals national recruiting ****** yst Sam Spiegelman and SoonerScoop.com's Josh McCuistion issued predictions favoring the Sooners.
It's just his sixth offer in the cycle, but Sweat has a strong offer sheet that includes Tennessee, Texas Tech, Iowa State, Oklahoma State, and UConn, along with the Sooners.
The 6-0, 173-pound wide receiver wins with great speed and contact balance. In the highlights, there are a number of bubble screens that he turned into touchdowns. Sweat displays good lateral agility and quickness and really good hands in the passing game. He lined up primarily in the slot or in the backfield.
Sweat looks like a player who will play primarily out of the slot and has the speed to be effective in the short game and to get downfield for big plays.
#oklahoma
1 month ago
Formula 1 says farewell to the Dutch Grand Prix this weekend with the final event at Zandvoort before it drops off the calendar.
Orange smoke has hung in the air of the seaside venue since it returned to the schedule in 2021 after a 36-year absence, with sell-out crowds overwhelmingly supporting Red Bull's Max Verstappen.
Despite its popularity, organisers have not been able to make the event work financially and have decided not to continue hosting F1.
Before Zandvoort signs off, we take a look back at a selection of images from the Dutch Grand Prix, which was first run as an F1 event in 1952.
Jim Clark (left), Graham Hill (centre) and Bruce McLaren lead the field away at the start in 1963 [Getty Images]
#formula #despite
Orange smoke has hung in the air of the seaside venue since it returned to the schedule in 2021 after a 36-year absence, with sell-out crowds overwhelmingly supporting Red Bull's Max Verstappen.
Despite its popularity, organisers have not been able to make the event work financially and have decided not to continue hosting F1.
Before Zandvoort signs off, we take a look back at a selection of images from the Dutch Grand Prix, which was first run as an F1 event in 1952.
Jim Clark (left), Graham Hill (centre) and Bruce McLaren lead the field away at the start in 1963 [Getty Images]
#formula #despite
1 month ago
MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — Jordan Spieth set a target of 67 for the final round of the FedEx St. Jude Championship, certain that would be enough for him to crack the top 50 in the FedEx Cup and advance to next week. Turns out he would have only needed a 69, and even that was out of his reach.
Spieth and Keith Mitchell, who was up to his knees in water on the 18th trying to salvage his postseason, narrowly missed out advancing in the PGA Tour postseason Sunday, losing a chance to be guaranteed to play in all the $20 million signature events in 2027.
One birdie over his last three holes would have done it for Spieth. Mitchell would have needed to shave two shots from his score. He made bogey from the water on the 18th.
"I just feel like I'm kind of getting back to playing really good golf, like it's close to kicking off, and I'm not going to play a tournament for a long time," Spieth said after closing with three straight pars for an even-par 70.
Spieth came into the first playoff event at No. 54 and was projected to need something around the top 15 — depending on others around him — to make it to the BMW Championship for the first time since 2023.
#needed
Spieth and Keith Mitchell, who was up to his knees in water on the 18th trying to salvage his postseason, narrowly missed out advancing in the PGA Tour postseason Sunday, losing a chance to be guaranteed to play in all the $20 million signature events in 2027.
One birdie over his last three holes would have done it for Spieth. Mitchell would have needed to shave two shots from his score. He made bogey from the water on the 18th.
"I just feel like I'm kind of getting back to playing really good golf, like it's close to kicking off, and I'm not going to play a tournament for a long time," Spieth said after closing with three straight pars for an even-par 70.
Spieth came into the first playoff event at No. 54 and was projected to need something around the top 15 — depending on others around him — to make it to the BMW Championship for the first time since 2023.
#needed
1 month ago
Last night the bats just could not get going and the bullpen faltered. That led to a disappointing 4-1 loss. Now the boys will have to regroup and try to even the series. Hopefully the league's highest scoring offense can figure out the Mets makeshift pitching staff.
With a lefty on the mound, there will be plenty of changes to the lineup. Dylan Crews will lead off and play right. CJ Abrams is at short again despite the announcement of his move to second base. Andrew Pinckney and Harry Ford are also back in the lineup. Brad Lord will start as his reintegration into the rotation continues.
The Mets have a couple new faces at the bottom of their lineup. Brett Baty will play left field and Jorge Polanco will DH. Otherwise it is the same group as last night. Francisco Lindor will lead the way without Juan Soto. Sean Manaea has been throwing the ball much better lately and will be on the mound today.
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#lead #play
With a lefty on the mound, there will be plenty of changes to the lineup. Dylan Crews will lead off and play right. CJ Abrams is at short again despite the announcement of his move to second base. Andrew Pinckney and Harry Ford are also back in the lineup. Brad Lord will start as his reintegration into the rotation continues.
The Mets have a couple new faces at the bottom of their lineup. Brett Baty will play left field and Jorge Polanco will DH. Otherwise it is the same group as last night. Francisco Lindor will lead the way without Juan Soto. Sean Manaea has been throwing the ball much better lately and will be on the mound today.
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Fewer ads
#lead #play
1 month ago
IndyCar and IMS President Doug Boles during the public drivers' meeting prior to the NTT IndyCar Series 109th Running of the Indianapolis 500 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway on May 24, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Michael L. Levitt/Lumen via Getty Images)
In what could have been a great opening day for IndyCar on the streets of Markham, Ontario turned into bitter disappointment for the huge throng of fans in the grandstands and for IndyCar President Doug Boles.
Instead of racing action, the only wheels turned on the 2.19-mile, 12-turn road course was construction machinery still trying to complete the track build. Without enough key tire packs in place to make for a safe impact area, IndyCar officials cancelled all track activity on Friday and issued a revised schedule for Saturday.
That left Boles furious that the track was not ready in time by the promoter of this weekend's event, and a key, longtime IndyCar ally, Green Savoree Promotions.
"IndyCar is incredibly disappointed that our promoter was not able to complete the track build on time, despite significant support from our team on site," Boles said. "Ontario has always been a magnificent market for our sport and the number of spectators that attended today is a shining example of that. New events can always pose logistical challenges and we join in the frustration of our loyal fans and apologize.
#indycar #boles #president #doug
In what could have been a great opening day for IndyCar on the streets of Markham, Ontario turned into bitter disappointment for the huge throng of fans in the grandstands and for IndyCar President Doug Boles.
Instead of racing action, the only wheels turned on the 2.19-mile, 12-turn road course was construction machinery still trying to complete the track build. Without enough key tire packs in place to make for a safe impact area, IndyCar officials cancelled all track activity on Friday and issued a revised schedule for Saturday.
That left Boles furious that the track was not ready in time by the promoter of this weekend's event, and a key, longtime IndyCar ally, Green Savoree Promotions.
"IndyCar is incredibly disappointed that our promoter was not able to complete the track build on time, despite significant support from our team on site," Boles said. "Ontario has always been a magnificent market for our sport and the number of spectators that attended today is a shining example of that. New events can always pose logistical challenges and we join in the frustration of our loyal fans and apologize.
#indycar #boles #president #doug
2 months ago
Double blue.
FC Barcelona and Nike unveiled the club's new third kit for the 2026-2027 season on Wednesday morning.
A sky blue shirt... and dark blue at the same time.
A shirt "inspired by the feeling of those who dream of Barça," the club explains.
Here it is:
#blue #Barcelona #unveiled
FC Barcelona and Nike unveiled the club's new third kit for the 2026-2027 season on Wednesday morning.
A sky blue shirt... and dark blue at the same time.
A shirt "inspired by the feeling of those who dream of Barça," the club explains.
Here it is:
#blue #Barcelona #unveiled
2 months ago
LAS VEGAS – Jamahal Hill wants to dive right in the deep end of the UFC heavyweight pool.
Hill, a former UFC light heavyweight champion, announced he'll be taking his talents up to the heavyweight division later this year, and he wants to face the very top of the weight class right off the bat. Out of the names that are currently up in the rankings, there's one that stands out for him: Josh Hokit.
"Top five – I'd love to fight the top five," Hill told MMA Junkie and other media. "I feel as though even if I continued fighting at light heavyweight, it would be top five. I'd like to see the same thing here. You know, I'm here to bring energy and bring good fights. I believe my style is very exciting, and it translates very well to the big boys. I'm going to get them moving. I'm going to get them moving. I'm coming with that action.
"It's not going to be a whole lot of sitting back, looking at each other. I'm here to put my hands on people, so that's what I'm coming for the heavyweight division. I think the heavyweight division needs that, and I want Josh Hokit. I want Josh Hokit first fight. You know, that's definitely a fight I want more than any other fight. That's the fight that I want."
Hill is currently on a three-fight skid. He was stopped by Alex Pereira and Jiri Prochazka before losing a decision to Khalil Rountree Jr. in June 2025. Hill hasn't fought since, as he's been recovering from an injury.
#heavyweight #hokit #want
Hill, a former UFC light heavyweight champion, announced he'll be taking his talents up to the heavyweight division later this year, and he wants to face the very top of the weight class right off the bat. Out of the names that are currently up in the rankings, there's one that stands out for him: Josh Hokit.
"Top five – I'd love to fight the top five," Hill told MMA Junkie and other media. "I feel as though even if I continued fighting at light heavyweight, it would be top five. I'd like to see the same thing here. You know, I'm here to bring energy and bring good fights. I believe my style is very exciting, and it translates very well to the big boys. I'm going to get them moving. I'm going to get them moving. I'm coming with that action.
"It's not going to be a whole lot of sitting back, looking at each other. I'm here to put my hands on people, so that's what I'm coming for the heavyweight division. I think the heavyweight division needs that, and I want Josh Hokit. I want Josh Hokit first fight. You know, that's definitely a fight I want more than any other fight. That's the fight that I want."
Hill is currently on a three-fight skid. He was stopped by Alex Pereira and Jiri Prochazka before losing a decision to Khalil Rountree Jr. in June 2025. Hill hasn't fought since, as he's been recovering from an injury.
#heavyweight #hokit #want
2 months ago
Mike Krukow announced that he plans to retire from the broadcast booth at the end of the San Francisco Giants' season.
It's the end of an era for San Francisco baseball, as Krukow has been with the team's booth since 1990 and a full-time broadcaster with the team since 1994. The decision comes due to health issues stemming from inclusion body myositis, a degenerative muscle disease he publicly disclosed in 2014.
Leaving any job can be tough to process, but Krukow shared on Monday that the most difficult part of his decision was telling it to his partner in the broadcast booth, Duane Kuiper.
"Horrible. It's the worst thing I've ever had to do — is walk away from him. In my life," Krukow told KNBR of what it was like to break the news to Kuiper. "He looked at me, and he goes, 'No, you're not.' He was quiet. Then we walked out of the lunchroom together. He put his arm on my shoulders, and we just quietly walked back to the booth. Went back and did our job."
Krukow played 14 seasons as a starting pitcher in the majors, spending time with the Chicago Cubs and Philadelphia Phillies before settling in with the Giants for the final seven years of his career. He and Kuiper first met as teammates in San Francisco and found a partnership that lasted a lifetime in their post-playing careers. Kuiper plans to continue in the booth for the Giants after Krukow's departure.
#since
It's the end of an era for San Francisco baseball, as Krukow has been with the team's booth since 1990 and a full-time broadcaster with the team since 1994. The decision comes due to health issues stemming from inclusion body myositis, a degenerative muscle disease he publicly disclosed in 2014.
Leaving any job can be tough to process, but Krukow shared on Monday that the most difficult part of his decision was telling it to his partner in the broadcast booth, Duane Kuiper.
"Horrible. It's the worst thing I've ever had to do — is walk away from him. In my life," Krukow told KNBR of what it was like to break the news to Kuiper. "He looked at me, and he goes, 'No, you're not.' He was quiet. Then we walked out of the lunchroom together. He put his arm on my shoulders, and we just quietly walked back to the booth. Went back and did our job."
Krukow played 14 seasons as a starting pitcher in the majors, spending time with the Chicago Cubs and Philadelphia Phillies before settling in with the Giants for the final seven years of his career. He and Kuiper first met as teammates in San Francisco and found a partnership that lasted a lifetime in their post-playing careers. Kuiper plans to continue in the booth for the Giants after Krukow's departure.
#since
