2 days ago
Quenton Nelson knows how hard it is to block Jeffery Simmons. When Nelson was a guard for the Colts and Simmons was a defensive tackle for the **** ans, the two played against each other 13 times. And when Nelson got traded to the Seahawks on Tuesday, he thought he was going to get a break from facing Simmons.
That didn't happen. Shortly after Nelson got traded to the Seahawks, Simmons got traded to the Bears. Who play the Seahawks on Monday night, in the first game for both players on their new teams.
Nelson said he considers Simmons one of the best opponents he's faced, and he's ready for a big challenge when the Bears visit Seattle on Monday night.
"He's an amazing football player and competitor. I was like, Man, can't get away from this guy. It'll be another battle against him this week," Nelson said.
Nelson vs. Simmons will be the most-watched offensive lineman vs. defensive lineman battle of this NFL season, as two All-Pros go at it again, now on new teams with Super Bowl aspirations.
#simmons #traded #teams #battle
That didn't happen. Shortly after Nelson got traded to the Seahawks, Simmons got traded to the Bears. Who play the Seahawks on Monday night, in the first game for both players on their new teams.
Nelson said he considers Simmons one of the best opponents he's faced, and he's ready for a big challenge when the Bears visit Seattle on Monday night.
"He's an amazing football player and competitor. I was like, Man, can't get away from this guy. It'll be another battle against him this week," Nelson said.
Nelson vs. Simmons will be the most-watched offensive lineman vs. defensive lineman battle of this NFL season, as two All-Pros go at it again, now on new teams with Super Bowl aspirations.
#simmons #traded #teams #battle
2 days ago
The Chicago Bears got the player they wanted. The harder question is what they gave up to get him.
Chicago acquired All-Pro defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons from Tennessee on Thursday, sending the **** ans first-round picks in 2027 and 2028 and a 2027 fourth-round pick. The Bears also received a 2028 fifth-round pick. It is a huge price for a 29-year-old defender, even one capable of changing how opponents block Chicago's front.
Simmons makes the Bears better today. He had 11 sacks last season and has four through seven games this year. ESPN's **** ysis identified the need clearly: Chicago ranked 23rd in pass-rush win rate from its interior defenders before the trade, while Simmons led NFL defensive tackles in that measure. His ability to disrupt both running and passing plays gives Dennis Allen something the defense has lacked up front.
But there are two parts to this trade. One is the impact Simmons can make on Sundays. The other is how Chicago builds around him in the years ahead.
Aug 28, 2021; Nashville, TN, USA; Tennessee **** ans defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons (98) celebrates after a defensive stop on fourth down during the first half against the Chicago Bears at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
#Chicago #bears #defensive
Chicago acquired All-Pro defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons from Tennessee on Thursday, sending the **** ans first-round picks in 2027 and 2028 and a 2027 fourth-round pick. The Bears also received a 2028 fifth-round pick. It is a huge price for a 29-year-old defender, even one capable of changing how opponents block Chicago's front.
Simmons makes the Bears better today. He had 11 sacks last season and has four through seven games this year. ESPN's **** ysis identified the need clearly: Chicago ranked 23rd in pass-rush win rate from its interior defenders before the trade, while Simmons led NFL defensive tackles in that measure. His ability to disrupt both running and passing plays gives Dennis Allen something the defense has lacked up front.
But there are two parts to this trade. One is the impact Simmons can make on Sundays. The other is how Chicago builds around him in the years ahead.
Aug 28, 2021; Nashville, TN, USA; Tennessee **** ans defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons (98) celebrates after a defensive stop on fourth down during the first half against the Chicago Bears at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
#Chicago #bears #defensive
2 days ago
Florida baseball coach Kevin O'Sullivan is getting a clearer picture of what his roster could look like as the games begin to count.
The Gators continued their unbeaten fall exhibition schedule Wednesday with a 7-4 win over the Ontario Blue Jays, with Nic Partridge delivering a three-hit night and Florida's bullpen stringing together seven consecutive scoreless innings. The performance gave O'Sullivan another opportunity to move players around defensively and evaluate a pitching staff that he believes has made significant progress.
O'Sullivan spoke with the press immediately following the exhibition about Partridge's breakout fall, Florida's defensive versatility, its emerging bullpen options and the development of several young pitchers.
Here's everything O'Sullivan had to say, with quotes transcribed from Gators Online's YouTube coverage.
I think they all did. Honestly, I think Brady (Snow)'s back was bothering him just a little bit, and I think he kind of tweaked something and didn't say anything. So I thought he threw good. I thought they all threw good.
#thought
The Gators continued their unbeaten fall exhibition schedule Wednesday with a 7-4 win over the Ontario Blue Jays, with Nic Partridge delivering a three-hit night and Florida's bullpen stringing together seven consecutive scoreless innings. The performance gave O'Sullivan another opportunity to move players around defensively and evaluate a pitching staff that he believes has made significant progress.
O'Sullivan spoke with the press immediately following the exhibition about Partridge's breakout fall, Florida's defensive versatility, its emerging bullpen options and the development of several young pitchers.
Here's everything O'Sullivan had to say, with quotes transcribed from Gators Online's YouTube coverage.
I think they all did. Honestly, I think Brady (Snow)'s back was bothering him just a little bit, and I think he kind of tweaked something and didn't say anything. So I thought he threw good. I thought they all threw good.
#thought
2 days ago
The New York Yankees entered the offseason facing familiar questions about their offensive identity after another frustrating end to their season. Despite the talent in their lineup, the Yankees were swept by the division rival Tampa Bay Rays in the American League Division Series, leaving the franchise to confront concerns about its execution, approach and ability to deliver when the stakes are highest.
The team's reliance on superstar slugger Aaron Judge was laid bare, as the offense struggled to produce while he was sidelined by an injury. And its failure to execute fundamental defensive and baserunning plays has come under fire as well, particularly after the Rays and World Series champion Milwaukee Brewers succeeded with such a different style.
Former Yankees manager Joe Girardi articulated many of the criticisms surrounding the Yankees shortly after their season ended.
"Joe Girardi isn't blaming Aaron Boone for the Yankees' shortcomings, but believes a deeper-rooted culture issue might have contributed to the team being swept in the ALDS," Mark Suleymanov wrote for the New York Post. "Girardi cited Austin Wells' baserunning blunder in Game 1 and Jazz Chisholm Jr.'s disastrous throw in an error-filled Game 2 as examples of the team's fundamental failures — and the concerning response to those mistakes."
And with the Yankees under fire for a power-heavy offense and poor fundamentals, one of their most intriguing infield prospects has spoken out about the kind of change he'd like to see in the sport.
#series #division
The team's reliance on superstar slugger Aaron Judge was laid bare, as the offense struggled to produce while he was sidelined by an injury. And its failure to execute fundamental defensive and baserunning plays has come under fire as well, particularly after the Rays and World Series champion Milwaukee Brewers succeeded with such a different style.
Former Yankees manager Joe Girardi articulated many of the criticisms surrounding the Yankees shortly after their season ended.
"Joe Girardi isn't blaming Aaron Boone for the Yankees' shortcomings, but believes a deeper-rooted culture issue might have contributed to the team being swept in the ALDS," Mark Suleymanov wrote for the New York Post. "Girardi cited Austin Wells' baserunning blunder in Game 1 and Jazz Chisholm Jr.'s disastrous throw in an error-filled Game 2 as examples of the team's fundamental failures — and the concerning response to those mistakes."
And with the Yankees under fire for a power-heavy offense and poor fundamentals, one of their most intriguing infield prospects has spoken out about the kind of change he'd like to see in the sport.
#series #division
2 days ago
Frequent board commenter Solanus tracks an enormous amount of pitcher and catcher data, tabulating each game result by hand. Last year, he gave me enough insight into his spreadsheets where I was able to re-create much of the data he hand tabulates (I'm way too lazy for that!) and I wanted to peak at some of those data points and see what we could learn about the defensive side of their catching corps.
The data itself comes from a mix of sources. Statcast data for actual line-ups and game events (who pitched, who caught, which innings, etc.). Baseball reference.com for overall pitching lines for each game, and with Fangraphs because of course there has to be differences in how the data is constructed that doesn't make it easy. Team ids between sites are different. Player Ids are different. Even game Ids are different, and all three have to be brewed together to knit the data into one consistent result.
I wrote the code. The methods are all Solanus. I simply copied his logic into R code and ran it. So he gets all the credit.
I chose to query both the 2025 and 2026 seasons (you will likely understand why when I go through it). Here is the raw data, and following that some of the interesting morsels I discovered and thought about some.
2026
#data #game #solanus
The data itself comes from a mix of sources. Statcast data for actual line-ups and game events (who pitched, who caught, which innings, etc.). Baseball reference.com for overall pitching lines for each game, and with Fangraphs because of course there has to be differences in how the data is constructed that doesn't make it easy. Team ids between sites are different. Player Ids are different. Even game Ids are different, and all three have to be brewed together to knit the data into one consistent result.
I wrote the code. The methods are all Solanus. I simply copied his logic into R code and ran it. So he gets all the credit.
I chose to query both the 2025 and 2026 seasons (you will likely understand why when I go through it). Here is the raw data, and following that some of the interesting morsels I discovered and thought about some.
2026
#data #game #solanus
2 days ago
WEST GREENWICH – Zakhi Hightower knows he owes Josian Franco a touchdown.
Franco did the dirty work – the defensive pressure, a swatted pass – so Hightower just had to walk in for the game-breaking score. Juanita Sanchez/Providence Country Day cruised the rest of the night.
Hightower's interception return for a touchdown highlighted a breakout second quarter for the Cavaliers. Their season will continue with a clean slate, and a playoff date next week awaits after a 34-22 victory over Exeter-West Greenwich on Thursday night, Oct. 29.
Juanita Sanchez (3-4) currently has the fifth seed in Division IV after the victory on Oct. 29. The fourth spot, in this ever-changing RPI system, is within reach pending the weekend's results. More defensive plays like Hightower's 25-yard pick-six would make this co-op a dangerous team in the knockout stages.
Watch RI games on NFHS Network all season!
#west
Franco did the dirty work – the defensive pressure, a swatted pass – so Hightower just had to walk in for the game-breaking score. Juanita Sanchez/Providence Country Day cruised the rest of the night.
Hightower's interception return for a touchdown highlighted a breakout second quarter for the Cavaliers. Their season will continue with a clean slate, and a playoff date next week awaits after a 34-22 victory over Exeter-West Greenwich on Thursday night, Oct. 29.
Juanita Sanchez (3-4) currently has the fifth seed in Division IV after the victory on Oct. 29. The fourth spot, in this ever-changing RPI system, is within reach pending the weekend's results. More defensive plays like Hightower's 25-yard pick-six would make this co-op a dangerous team in the knockout stages.
Watch RI games on NFHS Network all season!
#west
2 days ago
Titans head coach Robert Saleh says his team will not hold a fire sale ahead of the trade deadline. But the offer they got from the Bears for defensive tackle Jeffrey Simmons was too good to pass up.
The Bears traded their next two first-round draft picks to the ****** ans for Simmons, and Saleh said that a team in the ****** ans' position couldn't realistically have passed that up.
"No one's shopping any of our guys, but like I told our guys, when you don't close out games, and you're standing here at 1-6, teams are going to start fishing," Saleh said. "And eventually a team threw a hook big enough that I don't think any of us could've said no to."
Saleh said he considers Simmons "by far" the best defensive tackle in the NFL and hates to see him go.
"It's tough. Jeff is an elite football player and he's an even better person," Saleh said. "He's an elite leader. I've been outspoken on that. It sucks. Everything about it sucks. Unfortunately, necessary."
#simmons
The Bears traded their next two first-round draft picks to the ****** ans for Simmons, and Saleh said that a team in the ****** ans' position couldn't realistically have passed that up.
"No one's shopping any of our guys, but like I told our guys, when you don't close out games, and you're standing here at 1-6, teams are going to start fishing," Saleh said. "And eventually a team threw a hook big enough that I don't think any of us could've said no to."
Saleh said he considers Simmons "by far" the best defensive tackle in the NFL and hates to see him go.
"It's tough. Jeff is an elite football player and he's an even better person," Saleh said. "He's an elite leader. I've been outspoken on that. It sucks. Everything about it sucks. Unfortunately, necessary."
#simmons
2 days ago
Speculation surrounding the long-term future of Ronald Araujo has intensified as his representative finally addressed the defender's mindset at Anfield. The Uruguayan international remains a central figure for the Premier League leaders despite persistent links to a continental exit.
The representative for Araujo has sought to clarify the Liverpool defender's current status following a wave of reports suggesting a potential move away from the Premier League. As one of the most consistent performers in the English top flight, Araujo has become a cornerstone of the defensive unit, leading to inevitable interest from across Europe's elite clubs looking to bolster their backlines.
However, despite the noise surrounding a possible departure, the message from his camp remains one of stability and contentment. His agent, Eduardo Crnjar, spoke about the player's current situation and how he feels about his surroundings in the North West of England. "Ronald is performing well , we're very happy with what he's offering, but it's still too early to talk about his future. He feels great, he's happy to be playing for Liverpool and helping the club and his teammates, as he's already said," Crnjar told WinWin Sports, as quoted by SPORT.
While the agent's comments provide some breathing room for the club, the broader context of the transfer market continues to loom over the situation. Several teams have been monitoring the Uruguayan's progress, aware that a defender of his calibre and age profile is a rare commodity in the modern game, especially given his proven track record in both La Liga and the Premier League.
The mention of a €55m valuation has frequently appeared in discussions regarding a potential transfer fee, a figure that many consider to be a bargain for a player of his international standing. Liverpool, however, would likely demand a significantly higher sum to even consider entering negotiations for a player who still has his best years ahead of him at the highest level of European football.
#future
The representative for Araujo has sought to clarify the Liverpool defender's current status following a wave of reports suggesting a potential move away from the Premier League. As one of the most consistent performers in the English top flight, Araujo has become a cornerstone of the defensive unit, leading to inevitable interest from across Europe's elite clubs looking to bolster their backlines.
However, despite the noise surrounding a possible departure, the message from his camp remains one of stability and contentment. His agent, Eduardo Crnjar, spoke about the player's current situation and how he feels about his surroundings in the North West of England. "Ronald is performing well , we're very happy with what he's offering, but it's still too early to talk about his future. He feels great, he's happy to be playing for Liverpool and helping the club and his teammates, as he's already said," Crnjar told WinWin Sports, as quoted by SPORT.
While the agent's comments provide some breathing room for the club, the broader context of the transfer market continues to loom over the situation. Several teams have been monitoring the Uruguayan's progress, aware that a defender of his calibre and age profile is a rare commodity in the modern game, especially given his proven track record in both La Liga and the Premier League.
The mention of a €55m valuation has frequently appeared in discussions regarding a potential transfer fee, a figure that many consider to be a bargain for a player of his international standing. Liverpool, however, would likely demand a significantly higher sum to even consider entering negotiations for a player who still has his best years ahead of him at the highest level of European football.
#future
2 days ago
Sebastian Cheeks has spearheaded one of the best defenses in the nation this season. The Wisconsin Badgers rank inside the top 10 in total yards allowed per game at 276.5, all while allowing a stout 16.3 points per game, which ranks 13th-best in the country. Cheeks joined the Badgers ahead of the 2024 season after spending two seasons at UNC. Cheeks' first two seasons saw him flash at times, but overall, he never jumped out as one of the Big Ten's biggest stars.That was until now. So far this season, Cheeks has tallied 26 total tackles, seven tackles for loss, five sacks, and two forced fumbles.In Wisconsin's upset 24-7 win over USC this past weekend, Cheeks pulled together five tackles and 2.5 sacks, earning him conference acclaim.
Cheeks was recently tipped as a potential NFL draft pick by draft expert Mel Kiper thanks to his do-it-all archetype.
Luke Fickell's squad has just five games on the season; up next is the 5-2 Iowa Hawkeyes inside what is bound to be an electric Kinnick Stadium. Kickoff is set for 12 PM ET and is the Big Noon Kickoff game for FOX.
Contact/FollowTheBadgersWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Wisconsin Badgers news, notes and opinion.
This article originally appeared on Badgers Wire: Wisconsin OLB finally named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week
#cheeks #badgers #follow
Cheeks was recently tipped as a potential NFL draft pick by draft expert Mel Kiper thanks to his do-it-all archetype.
Luke Fickell's squad has just five games on the season; up next is the 5-2 Iowa Hawkeyes inside what is bound to be an electric Kinnick Stadium. Kickoff is set for 12 PM ET and is the Big Noon Kickoff game for FOX.
Contact/FollowTheBadgersWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Wisconsin Badgers news, notes and opinion.
This article originally appeared on Badgers Wire: Wisconsin OLB finally named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week
#cheeks #badgers #follow
2 days ago
Angelique S. Chengelis, Connor Earegood, John Niyo, and Bob Wojnowski of The Detroit News predict the outcome of Saturday's Michigan-Rutgers game at SHI Stadium in Piscataway, New Jersey (12:30 p.m., Big Ten Network/94.7 FM).
▶ Angelique S. Chengelis: Rutgers coach Greg Schiano has always been tied to defense, but the Scarlet Knights have struggled defensively this season and ranks 128th in scoring. That could make this the "get-right" game for Michigan's offense, which is sorely in need of a confidence-building performance, especially from the run game and offensive line. Michigan's No. 3-ranked defense likely won't have the challenge it was expecting now that Rutgers QB Dylan Lonergan has been ruled out. He left last week's game at Northwestern in the first quarter because of a hit to the head and backup AJ Surace has struggled with six touchdowns against five interceptions this season. Michigan's defensive backs were expected to have their hands full facing 6-foot-6 receiver KJ Duff, but he is "doubtful" for the game, according to the Big Ten availability report. Pick: Michigan, 31-10
▶ Connor Earegood: Rejoice, Jason Beck. You're going to save your job this week. This Michigan offense may be wasting one of the nation's best defenses, but it will get an important tune-up against Rutgers. You know, the Rutgers team that lost to UMass, which is 1-3 in Mid-American Conference play. Oh, Rutgahs. Its availability report suggests some key starters will not play. Its starting QB is hurt, its star receiver is doubtful. A one-read quarterback could probably pick its defense apart at full strength. That's a good opponent for a true freshman in Tommy Carr to face in his second career start, after the **** er of the unknown wore off last week and showed you that maybe, just maybe, it isn't the guy under center who's the problem but rather the guy calling his plays. If Beck takes some inspiration from the Michigan Stadium videoboard and runs the ball between the tackles from time to time, Michigan should roll to an easy win. If it's another stinker, it will make for an interesting crowd in next week's rivalry game. Pick: Michigan, 34-7
▶ John Niyo: If Rutgers can't cure Michigan's offensive woes, nothing will. Greg Schiano's days appear numbered in Piscataway, and the statistical numbers make it obvious why: Rutgers ranks 128th nationally in scoring defense and has given up 161 points in four Big Ten games thus far. Of course, that's more points than the Wolverines have scored in seven games this season. But this defense should be the cure Michigan's inefficient run game needs, and no matter who's playing quarterback, there'll be opportunities to create explosive plays in the pass game. In four Big Ten games, Rutgers already has given up 15 plays of 30-plus yards. Pick: Michigan, 34-16
▶ Bob Wojnowski: There's no such thing as a breather for the Wolverines, with six of their seven games decided on the final possession. Last week's OT loss to Indiana wa
▶ Angelique S. Chengelis: Rutgers coach Greg Schiano has always been tied to defense, but the Scarlet Knights have struggled defensively this season and ranks 128th in scoring. That could make this the "get-right" game for Michigan's offense, which is sorely in need of a confidence-building performance, especially from the run game and offensive line. Michigan's No. 3-ranked defense likely won't have the challenge it was expecting now that Rutgers QB Dylan Lonergan has been ruled out. He left last week's game at Northwestern in the first quarter because of a hit to the head and backup AJ Surace has struggled with six touchdowns against five interceptions this season. Michigan's defensive backs were expected to have their hands full facing 6-foot-6 receiver KJ Duff, but he is "doubtful" for the game, according to the Big Ten availability report. Pick: Michigan, 31-10
▶ Connor Earegood: Rejoice, Jason Beck. You're going to save your job this week. This Michigan offense may be wasting one of the nation's best defenses, but it will get an important tune-up against Rutgers. You know, the Rutgers team that lost to UMass, which is 1-3 in Mid-American Conference play. Oh, Rutgahs. Its availability report suggests some key starters will not play. Its starting QB is hurt, its star receiver is doubtful. A one-read quarterback could probably pick its defense apart at full strength. That's a good opponent for a true freshman in Tommy Carr to face in his second career start, after the **** er of the unknown wore off last week and showed you that maybe, just maybe, it isn't the guy under center who's the problem but rather the guy calling his plays. If Beck takes some inspiration from the Michigan Stadium videoboard and runs the ball between the tackles from time to time, Michigan should roll to an easy win. If it's another stinker, it will make for an interesting crowd in next week's rivalry game. Pick: Michigan, 34-7
▶ John Niyo: If Rutgers can't cure Michigan's offensive woes, nothing will. Greg Schiano's days appear numbered in Piscataway, and the statistical numbers make it obvious why: Rutgers ranks 128th nationally in scoring defense and has given up 161 points in four Big Ten games thus far. Of course, that's more points than the Wolverines have scored in seven games this season. But this defense should be the cure Michigan's inefficient run game needs, and no matter who's playing quarterback, there'll be opportunities to create explosive plays in the pass game. In four Big Ten games, Rutgers already has given up 15 plays of 30-plus yards. Pick: Michigan, 34-16
▶ Bob Wojnowski: There's no such thing as a breather for the Wolverines, with six of their seven games decided on the final possession. Last week's OT loss to Indiana wa
2 days ago
Former Texas A&M football players delivered several notable performances in Week 7 of the NFL season, including a breakout game from Cleveland Browns rookie wide receiver KC Concepcion and a career milestone for Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Cashius Howell.
Concepcion recorded career highs with eight receptions for 129 yards in Cleveland's 27-24 victory over the Tennessee **** ans. He also added 23 rushing yards on three carries, for 152 total yards from scrimmage. His performance earned him a nomination for the NFL's Rookie of the Week award.
The former Aggie became the first Browns rookie wide receiver since 2016 to surpass 100 receiving yards in a game. His 129 yards also ranked eighth in franchise history for a rookie in a single game. Over seven games, Concepcion has caught 30 passes for 315 yards, establishing himself as an emerging weapon in Cleveland's offense.
Howell also had a memorable afternoon in Cincinnati's 35-13 win over the Baltimore Ravens. The rookie defensive end recorded his first career NFL sack, bringing down quarterback Tyler Huntley for a four-yard loss on Baltimore's opening second-half drive.
The play helped force a punt as Cincinnati rallied from a 13-0 halftime deficit and scored 35 unanswered points to win. Howell, a second-round pick in the 2026 NFL draft, recorded 11.5 sacks in his final season at Texas A&M before moving to the professional level.
#howell #recorded #Browns
Concepcion recorded career highs with eight receptions for 129 yards in Cleveland's 27-24 victory over the Tennessee **** ans. He also added 23 rushing yards on three carries, for 152 total yards from scrimmage. His performance earned him a nomination for the NFL's Rookie of the Week award.
The former Aggie became the first Browns rookie wide receiver since 2016 to surpass 100 receiving yards in a game. His 129 yards also ranked eighth in franchise history for a rookie in a single game. Over seven games, Concepcion has caught 30 passes for 315 yards, establishing himself as an emerging weapon in Cleveland's offense.
Howell also had a memorable afternoon in Cincinnati's 35-13 win over the Baltimore Ravens. The rookie defensive end recorded his first career NFL sack, bringing down quarterback Tyler Huntley for a four-yard loss on Baltimore's opening second-half drive.
The play helped force a punt as Cincinnati rallied from a 13-0 halftime deficit and scored 35 unanswered points to win. Howell, a second-round pick in the 2026 NFL draft, recorded 11.5 sacks in his final season at Texas A&M before moving to the professional level.
#howell #recorded #Browns
2 days ago
The 2026 season might have been a struggle for the North Hunterdon High School football team, but last weekend's victory over neighborhood rival Voorhees in the 51st annual Milk Can Game is a good way to go into the offseason on a supremely positive note.
Senior Matt Esposito led the way in the 21-18 victory, which increased the Lions all-time lead in the series to 36-14-1 and gave them their first victory of the season. Esposito rushed 27 times for 193 yards and the three touchdowns, including two in the second half. He also pitched in five tackles on defense, plus an interception.
The senior finishes with 916 yards and nine scores for the season, plus a receiving touchdown, while recording 36 tackles, two interceptions and a forced fumble in the Lions' defensive secondary.
"Matt had a tremendous year and was an instrumental piece to the team," North Hunterdon coach CJ Robinson said. "He brings the effort, attitude, and toughness on Friday nights. His performance last week is a great reflection of the work and commitment he's put in this year. To see him play at that level and help lead our team to a win was special. We were fortunate to have had him as part of our program."
Simeon Pincus has covered NJ sports since 1997. He can be reached at SPincusGannettNJ.com. Follow him on Twitter SimeonPincus
#team #hunterdon #matt
Senior Matt Esposito led the way in the 21-18 victory, which increased the Lions all-time lead in the series to 36-14-1 and gave them their first victory of the season. Esposito rushed 27 times for 193 yards and the three touchdowns, including two in the second half. He also pitched in five tackles on defense, plus an interception.
The senior finishes with 916 yards and nine scores for the season, plus a receiving touchdown, while recording 36 tackles, two interceptions and a forced fumble in the Lions' defensive secondary.
"Matt had a tremendous year and was an instrumental piece to the team," North Hunterdon coach CJ Robinson said. "He brings the effort, attitude, and toughness on Friday nights. His performance last week is a great reflection of the work and commitment he's put in this year. To see him play at that level and help lead our team to a win was special. We were fortunate to have had him as part of our program."
Simeon Pincus has covered NJ sports since 1997. He can be reached at SPincusGannettNJ.com. Follow him on Twitter SimeonPincus
#team #hunterdon #matt
2 days ago
Clean sheets can make a big difference to Fantasy Premier League (FPL) points, especially for managers looking to get more from their defenders and goalkeepers.
Gameweek 8 saw ***** nal, Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool and Newcastle United keep clean sheets, while Bournemouth recorded an impressive 3-0 win over Manchester United and Leeds United played out a goalless draw with Sunderland.
Tottenham Hotspur were particularly impressive in their 2-0 victory over Chelsea, while Bournemouth also continued their good run of results, showing how valuable defensive returns can be for FPL managers.
With Gameweek 9 approaching, the latest clean sheet odds offer a useful guide to the teams with the best defensive prospects, helping managers ***** s their options ahead of the deadline.
Tottenham Hotspur – 38% vs Crystal Palace (H)
#TOTTENHAM #managers #gameweek #defensive
Gameweek 8 saw ***** nal, Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool and Newcastle United keep clean sheets, while Bournemouth recorded an impressive 3-0 win over Manchester United and Leeds United played out a goalless draw with Sunderland.
Tottenham Hotspur were particularly impressive in their 2-0 victory over Chelsea, while Bournemouth also continued their good run of results, showing how valuable defensive returns can be for FPL managers.
With Gameweek 9 approaching, the latest clean sheet odds offer a useful guide to the teams with the best defensive prospects, helping managers ***** s their options ahead of the deadline.
Tottenham Hotspur – 38% vs Crystal Palace (H)
#TOTTENHAM #managers #gameweek #defensive
2 days ago
The Kansas City Chiefs might be without rookie defensive back Mansoor Delane during their Week 8 matchup against the Denver Broncos.
Delane — who joined Kansas City as the No. 6 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft — is said to be dealing with a shoulder injury and was a non-participant in the Chiefs' practice session on Thursday, October 29.
It is unclear if Delane will need to miss any time due to his condition, but fans in Kansas City should monitor the first-year standout's progress throughout the week to see if the Chiefs ****** ign him an official game status designation for the team's AFC West tilt with Denver.
Here's Thursday's injury report for the Chiefs and Broncos. pic.twitter.com/55v5UZ9Y2T
A former LSU Tigers star, Delane has been among Kansas City's most impressive defenders this year and is expected to develop into a franchise player for the Chiefs as his NFL career progresses.
#kansas #injury
Delane — who joined Kansas City as the No. 6 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft — is said to be dealing with a shoulder injury and was a non-participant in the Chiefs' practice session on Thursday, October 29.
It is unclear if Delane will need to miss any time due to his condition, but fans in Kansas City should monitor the first-year standout's progress throughout the week to see if the Chiefs ****** ign him an official game status designation for the team's AFC West tilt with Denver.
Here's Thursday's injury report for the Chiefs and Broncos. pic.twitter.com/55v5UZ9Y2T
A former LSU Tigers star, Delane has been among Kansas City's most impressive defenders this year and is expected to develop into a franchise player for the Chiefs as his NFL career progresses.
#kansas #injury
2 days ago
The Washington Commanders appear to be making a change with their latest addition. Last week, the Commanders hired former NFL head coach and longtime defensive ****** istant Steve Wilks to a role on the coaching staff. According to head coach Dan Quinn and general manager Adam Peters, Wilks would spend part of the week in Ashburn working on game planning with the coaching staff and would not be involved in on-field player instruction.
For the first time since his hire became official, defensive coordinator Daronte Jones spoke about what Wilks brings to the Commanders.
"That was something that we had talked about back in training camp, but just for the value of experience that he has, we felt like we could use his resources and his expertise in some categories and experience," Jones said on Thursday.
Jones was asked whether Wilks' presence would let him, as a first-time NFL defensive coordinator, focus on other areas.
"Yeah, still working through how. It definitely does free me up in certain ways and just still manufacturing, working through how exactly we wanna disperse that, the workspace. So, we're still working through those a little bit."
#wilks #week #head
For the first time since his hire became official, defensive coordinator Daronte Jones spoke about what Wilks brings to the Commanders.
"That was something that we had talked about back in training camp, but just for the value of experience that he has, we felt like we could use his resources and his expertise in some categories and experience," Jones said on Thursday.
Jones was asked whether Wilks' presence would let him, as a first-time NFL defensive coordinator, focus on other areas.
"Yeah, still working through how. It definitely does free me up in certain ways and just still manufacturing, working through how exactly we wanna disperse that, the workspace. So, we're still working through those a little bit."
#wilks #week #head
2 days ago
Packers' Matt LaFleur applauds 'savant' Jonathan Gannon after beating Panthers appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Green Bay Packers survived the late rally of the Carolina Panthers to notch a 27-19 victory at Lambeau Field on Thursday.
Jordan Love went 30-of-41 for 288 yards and three touchdowns, while Josh Jacobs scored two touchdowns on 21 carries and six receptions. The defense played a huge part in crunch time, including sacking Bryce Young in the last 20 seconds to seal the hard-earned win.
Coach Matt LaFleur credited the defense, finding the perfect word for defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon, as reported by Sports Illustrated's Bill Huber.
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#matt #jonathan #sports #defense
The Green Bay Packers survived the late rally of the Carolina Panthers to notch a 27-19 victory at Lambeau Field on Thursday.
Jordan Love went 30-of-41 for 288 yards and three touchdowns, while Josh Jacobs scored two touchdowns on 21 carries and six receptions. The defense played a huge part in crunch time, including sacking Bryce Young in the last 20 seconds to seal the hard-earned win.
Coach Matt LaFleur credited the defense, finding the perfect word for defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon, as reported by Sports Illustrated's Bill Huber.
Watch sports LIVE with fuboTV (free trial)
#matt #jonathan #sports #defense
2 days ago
Baltimore Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton is receiving flak for his recent comments. During Thursday's press conference, he was asked to share his thoughts on the team's defensive struggles this season.
Hamilton said that he urges his defensive backs not to push themselves to their limit. He also highlighted the importance of having fun on the gridiron.
"I try to relay this message to the DBs, like, it's a game at the end of the day," Hamilton said. "I feel like sometimes we're thinking the whole world's going to end if something bad happens. That's not the approach that you need to have in the sport."
"None of our tombstones are going to say, 'Kyle Hamilton football player.' It's a game that we play. We need to have fun doing it. We need to be out there playing the game like we're playing a game."
Fans questioned Kyle Hamilton's discipline and dedication to the franchise and football after his comments. Some also compared his mentality to franchise legends Ray Lewis and Ed Reed, considered among the best defensive players of all time.
#game #defensive #going #Football
Hamilton said that he urges his defensive backs not to push themselves to their limit. He also highlighted the importance of having fun on the gridiron.
"I try to relay this message to the DBs, like, it's a game at the end of the day," Hamilton said. "I feel like sometimes we're thinking the whole world's going to end if something bad happens. That's not the approach that you need to have in the sport."
"None of our tombstones are going to say, 'Kyle Hamilton football player.' It's a game that we play. We need to have fun doing it. We need to be out there playing the game like we're playing a game."
Fans questioned Kyle Hamilton's discipline and dedication to the franchise and football after his comments. Some also compared his mentality to franchise legends Ray Lewis and Ed Reed, considered among the best defensive players of all time.
#game #defensive #going #Football
2 days ago
UW and Nebraska face off in Lincoln this weekend for the first time as conference foes. The long and storied history between the two teams stretches exactly 101 years and two weeks to the day between the very first match up in 1925 and this Saturday's game. That shared history primarily revolves around the four games played during the 1990s when both programs were at their peak. The 1991 game featured a furious second half comeback in Lincoln that built the momentum towards UW's eventual national championship. The Cornhuskers' return trip to Seattle in 1992 set the stage for the loudest recorded home crowd in college football history. Five years later, Nebraska returned to Montlake to get their revenge for the previous two games while on their way to their own national championship in 1997 in Tom Osborne's final season.
For these two programs, the current stakes of this weekend's game are much lower, although not entirely without significance. Both Washington and Nebraska enter Saturday night's matchup at a crossroads in their seasons. Nebraska sits at 5-2 overall and 2-2 in Big Ten play, but the Cornhuskers are coming off consecutive close losses to Indiana and Oregon. Despite those defeats, Matt Rhule's team has established itself as one of the league's most physical and statistically dominant defenses, keeping every game within reach through disciplined play, strong linebacker action, and excellent situational defense.
Washington, meanwhile, is 4-3 overall and 1-3 in conference play. The Huskies snapped a three-game losing streak with a 38-26 victory over Purdue before their bye week and arrive in Lincoln needing momentum to salvage their Big Ten campaign. Jedd Fisch's offense remains heavily dependent on its passing attack, ranking among the conference's better aerial units, but questions at quarterback and a struggling rushing offense persist.
Over Matt Rhule's four years at Nebraska, the Cornhuskers have embraced a physical and gritty, defensive-oriented identity as a program. Under first-year defensive coordinator, Rob Aurich, Nebraska has maintained the aggressive, fundamentally sound identity Nebraska built under Rhule. The Cornhuskers rank 14th nationally in scoring defense, 9th in total defense, and are holding opponents to just 171 passing yards and 99 rushing yards per game on average. Their suffocating rushing defense on early downs often position them in 3rd & long passing situations where they pressure packages and blanketing secondary can create plays. This formula is what has allowed Nebraska to lead the FBS in defensive 3rd down conversion percentage at just 19%. To put that statistic into perspective, Nebraska's defense has allowed just eight third down conversions in their four Big Ten conference games this season, including games with just one allowed against Maryland and Indiana.
Nebraska typically operates from a multiple-front structure, mixing even-front and odd-front looks while emphasizing gap discipline and disgui
For these two programs, the current stakes of this weekend's game are much lower, although not entirely without significance. Both Washington and Nebraska enter Saturday night's matchup at a crossroads in their seasons. Nebraska sits at 5-2 overall and 2-2 in Big Ten play, but the Cornhuskers are coming off consecutive close losses to Indiana and Oregon. Despite those defeats, Matt Rhule's team has established itself as one of the league's most physical and statistically dominant defenses, keeping every game within reach through disciplined play, strong linebacker action, and excellent situational defense.
Washington, meanwhile, is 4-3 overall and 1-3 in conference play. The Huskies snapped a three-game losing streak with a 38-26 victory over Purdue before their bye week and arrive in Lincoln needing momentum to salvage their Big Ten campaign. Jedd Fisch's offense remains heavily dependent on its passing attack, ranking among the conference's better aerial units, but questions at quarterback and a struggling rushing offense persist.
Over Matt Rhule's four years at Nebraska, the Cornhuskers have embraced a physical and gritty, defensive-oriented identity as a program. Under first-year defensive coordinator, Rob Aurich, Nebraska has maintained the aggressive, fundamentally sound identity Nebraska built under Rhule. The Cornhuskers rank 14th nationally in scoring defense, 9th in total defense, and are holding opponents to just 171 passing yards and 99 rushing yards per game on average. Their suffocating rushing defense on early downs often position them in 3rd & long passing situations where they pressure packages and blanketing secondary can create plays. This formula is what has allowed Nebraska to lead the FBS in defensive 3rd down conversion percentage at just 19%. To put that statistic into perspective, Nebraska's defense has allowed just eight third down conversions in their four Big Ten conference games this season, including games with just one allowed against Maryland and Indiana.
Nebraska typically operates from a multiple-front structure, mixing even-front and odd-front looks while emphasizing gap discipline and disgui
2 days ago
Hawks' Quin Snyder reveals 'growth' moment that helped break three-game losing streak appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
ATLANTA – After starting the season 2-0, the Atlanta Hawks had lost their last three games coming into their matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers. They've had several problems throughout the course of the week, but nothing was bigger than making shots, which in turn bled into their defense not getting stops when they needed.
It looked like that was going to be the case again for the Hawks in the first quarter, where they only scored 16 points. Luckily, they were able to turn things around in the second, and it felt like how things were when they first started the season. They scored 30 points in the second, while only allowing 16 points from the Cavs.
"It's harder to defend when you're not scoring because they're running at you," head coach Quin Snyder said after the game. "But even beyond that, you have to be mentally tough to dig in defensively, and we hung in there with that. Then the offense eventually started; we kind of settled in. That dynamic was a really important one in the game. That's growth for us."
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#first #clutchpoints
ATLANTA – After starting the season 2-0, the Atlanta Hawks had lost their last three games coming into their matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers. They've had several problems throughout the course of the week, but nothing was bigger than making shots, which in turn bled into their defense not getting stops when they needed.
It looked like that was going to be the case again for the Hawks in the first quarter, where they only scored 16 points. Luckily, they were able to turn things around in the second, and it felt like how things were when they first started the season. They scored 30 points in the second, while only allowing 16 points from the Cavs.
"It's harder to defend when you're not scoring because they're running at you," head coach Quin Snyder said after the game. "But even beyond that, you have to be mentally tough to dig in defensively, and we hung in there with that. Then the offense eventually started; we kind of settled in. That dynamic was a really important one in the game. That's growth for us."
Watch sports LIVE with fuboTV (free trial)
#first #clutchpoints
2 days ago
Rockets predicted to trade for $112M defensive menace, reliable shooter to pair with Kevin Durant originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Houston Rockets disappointed themselves and their fans last season after getting bounced in the first round of the playoffs against the Los Angeles Lakers. This season, the Rockets have come in with a goal in mind: to be the best team possible.
Houston has started the season 5-0, exceeding expectations. In fact, the Rockets have done this while Kevin Durant is still trying to get going.
"The Houston Rockets are 5-0, and the vibes are about as high as they've ever been during Kevin Durant's time with the franchise. The Rockets have outscored their opponents by 71 points through the first five games of the season, and during their dominant start, Durant has been Houston's No. 1 hype man on the bench, Fred VanVleet had his best game in two years," The Athletic's William Guillory wrote.
The biggest thing the Rockets needed heading into the offseason was shooting.
#season #source
The Houston Rockets disappointed themselves and their fans last season after getting bounced in the first round of the playoffs against the Los Angeles Lakers. This season, the Rockets have come in with a goal in mind: to be the best team possible.
Houston has started the season 5-0, exceeding expectations. In fact, the Rockets have done this while Kevin Durant is still trying to get going.
"The Houston Rockets are 5-0, and the vibes are about as high as they've ever been during Kevin Durant's time with the franchise. The Rockets have outscored their opponents by 71 points through the first five games of the season, and during their dominant start, Durant has been Houston's No. 1 hype man on the bench, Fred VanVleet had his best game in two years," The Athletic's William Guillory wrote.
The biggest thing the Rockets needed heading into the offseason was shooting.
#season #source
2 days ago
Collin ***** ton has already made his mark on the Los Angeles Lakers in just four games with them this season. He's averaging 12 points in 17.8 minutes a game this season, but his impact has gone beyond his numbers.
He has been an igniter for them off the bench thanks to his ability to get buckets, handle the ball, create pace and get others involved. He has also sparked them defensively with his relentless pressure on the ball and his willingness to shadow opposing ball-handlers up and down the court. The guard has helped force turnovers, even when he hasn't been credited with a steal.
Coach JJ Redick said after Sunday's 132-123 win over the Utah Jazz that ***** ton has a "level of insanity" to him that helps the team. ***** ton explained after Wednesday's 16-point victory over the Los Angeles Clippers that he takes on a special mindset when he is on the court.
"Honestly, I would say when I step into one of those lines, it's us against them," ***** ton said. "I'm going to be doing whatever my team needs. For me, I feel like I turn into a different person when it's time to go. And I think my teammates know that. So they try to talk to me a little bit, but they know I'm in the zone and ready to go to war. And that's how I look at it. Whenever I step into those lines, it's wartime."
Off the court, ***** ton seems like an easy-going man who radiates a positive attitude of gratitude. On the court, he is ultra-aggressive, and that type of on-court attitude can be very contagious. This season's Lakers roster boasts several players who have a can-do spirit and seem willing to embrace their specific roles for the good of the team.
#sexton #team #lines
He has been an igniter for them off the bench thanks to his ability to get buckets, handle the ball, create pace and get others involved. He has also sparked them defensively with his relentless pressure on the ball and his willingness to shadow opposing ball-handlers up and down the court. The guard has helped force turnovers, even when he hasn't been credited with a steal.
Coach JJ Redick said after Sunday's 132-123 win over the Utah Jazz that ***** ton has a "level of insanity" to him that helps the team. ***** ton explained after Wednesday's 16-point victory over the Los Angeles Clippers that he takes on a special mindset when he is on the court.
"Honestly, I would say when I step into one of those lines, it's us against them," ***** ton said. "I'm going to be doing whatever my team needs. For me, I feel like I turn into a different person when it's time to go. And I think my teammates know that. So they try to talk to me a little bit, but they know I'm in the zone and ready to go to war. And that's how I look at it. Whenever I step into those lines, it's wartime."
Off the court, ***** ton seems like an easy-going man who radiates a positive attitude of gratitude. On the court, he is ultra-aggressive, and that type of on-court attitude can be very contagious. This season's Lakers roster boasts several players who have a can-do spirit and seem willing to embrace their specific roles for the good of the team.
#sexton #team #lines
2 days ago
The NFL, the most parity-driven major sports league, feels even more wide open this year. Even the perceived powerhouses entering the season and teams with the best records have flaws that are already being picked at by opponents.
Betting markets and bettors are keeping plenty of teams alive. As of Thursday evening, FanDuel had 11 NFC teams with +164 or shorter odds to make the playoffs, and seven teams with +1100 odds or shorter to win the Super Bowl. Thirteen teams were at +2500 or shorter to hoist the Lombardi Trophy in February.
This open competition leads to opportunity. And opportunity leads to action. Even when the Nov. 10 trade deadline was still a ways away, teams started to address their weaknesses. The Dallas Cowboys added Joey Porter Jr., the Baltimore Ravens nabbed Cam Jurgens. Now with the deadline growing closer, NFL teams have decided to strike. First, Quenton Nelson was shipped off to the Seattle Seahawks from the sinking ship known as the Indianapolis Colts. Soon after, DeForest Buckner returned to the San Francisco 49ers to bolster their defensive front.
Then, on Thursday, the Chicago Bears fired a shot across the bow to the rest of the NFC and NFL, trading two future first-round draft picks and a fourth-rounder to the Tennessee ****** ans for defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons and a 2028 fifth-round selection.
Now that's some real action for a trade deadline!
#teams #deadline #open #odds
Betting markets and bettors are keeping plenty of teams alive. As of Thursday evening, FanDuel had 11 NFC teams with +164 or shorter odds to make the playoffs, and seven teams with +1100 odds or shorter to win the Super Bowl. Thirteen teams were at +2500 or shorter to hoist the Lombardi Trophy in February.
This open competition leads to opportunity. And opportunity leads to action. Even when the Nov. 10 trade deadline was still a ways away, teams started to address their weaknesses. The Dallas Cowboys added Joey Porter Jr., the Baltimore Ravens nabbed Cam Jurgens. Now with the deadline growing closer, NFL teams have decided to strike. First, Quenton Nelson was shipped off to the Seattle Seahawks from the sinking ship known as the Indianapolis Colts. Soon after, DeForest Buckner returned to the San Francisco 49ers to bolster their defensive front.
Then, on Thursday, the Chicago Bears fired a shot across the bow to the rest of the NFC and NFL, trading two future first-round draft picks and a fourth-rounder to the Tennessee ****** ans for defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons and a 2028 fifth-round selection.
Now that's some real action for a trade deadline!
#teams #deadline #open #odds
2 days ago
The UC Bearcats didn't have long to celebrate their upset of eighth-ranked Texas Texas on Homecoming last week.
That's because the Bearcats now face undefeated and No. 6 Utah, which has the nation's longest active win streak at 13 games. The Utes' last loss was in last year's "Holy War" to rival BYU in Provo, 24-21 Oct. 18, 2025. The Bearcats would benefit if the Utes looked ahead to this year's BYU game, which Utah hosts Nov. 7 at 10 a.m. at Rice-Eccles Stadium.
"I think for us, we need to show how much of an environment we have here," UC head coach Scott Satterfield said. " I know it's Halloween, but dress up and come out yelling in this game. We're going to need to have that home field advantage because it certainly helped us last week, and we know when we play here it's different for us because of that. Hopefully, our fans will show up and be loud."
Utah quarterback Devon Dampier, backup quarterback Byrd Ficklin and running back Wayshawn Parker have all taken direct snaps and are all threats as UC found out last year in a 45-14 walloping in Salt Lake City. Dampier threw for 213 yards and two touchdowns and ran for 78 yards. Parker ran for 104 yards with a touchdown. Ficklin had just 14, but also scored and is every bit the runner Dampier is when in the game. Sometimes, they're both in the game.
"They do a lot of that and they have the talent to put out there," UC coach Scott Satterfield said. "It makes you have to go over all this stuff. Defensive coaches sit in the office all day anyway; it just makes them sit longer to go over all the formations you could get. We call it 'chasing ghosts'. You don't know what you're going to get."
#last #utah #utes #scott
That's because the Bearcats now face undefeated and No. 6 Utah, which has the nation's longest active win streak at 13 games. The Utes' last loss was in last year's "Holy War" to rival BYU in Provo, 24-21 Oct. 18, 2025. The Bearcats would benefit if the Utes looked ahead to this year's BYU game, which Utah hosts Nov. 7 at 10 a.m. at Rice-Eccles Stadium.
"I think for us, we need to show how much of an environment we have here," UC head coach Scott Satterfield said. " I know it's Halloween, but dress up and come out yelling in this game. We're going to need to have that home field advantage because it certainly helped us last week, and we know when we play here it's different for us because of that. Hopefully, our fans will show up and be loud."
Utah quarterback Devon Dampier, backup quarterback Byrd Ficklin and running back Wayshawn Parker have all taken direct snaps and are all threats as UC found out last year in a 45-14 walloping in Salt Lake City. Dampier threw for 213 yards and two touchdowns and ran for 78 yards. Parker ran for 104 yards with a touchdown. Ficklin had just 14, but also scored and is every bit the runner Dampier is when in the game. Sometimes, they're both in the game.
"They do a lot of that and they have the talent to put out there," UC coach Scott Satterfield said. "It makes you have to go over all this stuff. Defensive coaches sit in the office all day anyway; it just makes them sit longer to go over all the formations you could get. We call it 'chasing ghosts'. You don't know what you're going to get."
#last #utah #utes #scott
2 days ago
Chicago Blackhawks coach Jeff Blashill did not hide his frustration after Thursday's 4-1 loss to the Detroit Red Wings. He called the performance a major step backward, criticizing his players' effort, skating and attention to detail.
The Blackhawks entered the game looking to build consistency. Instead, they struggled defensively and allowed Detroit to control the game, despite captain Connor Bedard's early goal.
"We had just way too many guys that wasn't close, not enough good," Blashill told NHL reporters.
MORE: Blackhawks coach reveals why Connor Bedard stays on ice in big moments
Final: Detroit 4, Chicago 1
#Chicago
The Blackhawks entered the game looking to build consistency. Instead, they struggled defensively and allowed Detroit to control the game, despite captain Connor Bedard's early goal.
"We had just way too many guys that wasn't close, not enough good," Blashill told NHL reporters.
MORE: Blackhawks coach reveals why Connor Bedard stays on ice in big moments
Final: Detroit 4, Chicago 1
#Chicago
2 days ago
A roundup of Southwest Florida high school football games played in Week 11 on Thursday, Oct. 29 and Friday, Oct. 30, 2026.
After a challenging season with a young roster, the Red Knights went out on a high note.
Facing rival Fort Myers, North pounded the rock and came up with some key defensive scores for a running clock victory at Sam Sirianni Field on Thursday night.
"I feel great," North head coach Ira Riggins said. "This team has been through so much this year. It's just fun to see these guys come out and put it all together for the first time versus a very well-known team. Hat's off to Fort Myers – they've always been top notch in this area, and it's always good to get a win versus them."
The Greenies got on the board first, converting a successful onside kick into points on a 33-yard field goal by senior Brayden Russell.
#north #team
After a challenging season with a young roster, the Red Knights went out on a high note.
Facing rival Fort Myers, North pounded the rock and came up with some key defensive scores for a running clock victory at Sam Sirianni Field on Thursday night.
"I feel great," North head coach Ira Riggins said. "This team has been through so much this year. It's just fun to see these guys come out and put it all together for the first time versus a very well-known team. Hat's off to Fort Myers – they've always been top notch in this area, and it's always good to get a win versus them."
The Greenies got on the board first, converting a successful onside kick into points on a 33-yard field goal by senior Brayden Russell.
#north #team
2 days ago
The Tennessee **** ans are having one of the worst seasons in their history. At 1-6, they're off to their worst start to a season in nearly 20 years. Cam Ward's **** ans have struggled on both offense and defense, and they have been unfortunate with injuries.
Ward has also had a troubling start. He has been criticized for his efficiency and decision-making all season. In seven games, he has thrown for 1,179 passing yards with four touchdowns and five interceptions.
There have been rumors of the **** ans looking to go away from Ward, especially after defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons' trade to the Chicago Bears. But NFL insider Adam Schefter reported that the **** ans will continue to back Ward despite a 1-6 start.
Fans reacted to Schefter's comments.
"It will be their ultimate downfall. They are not a QB developing team, or they make bad picks with high draft choices. Vince Young, Jake Locker, Will Levis, now it's Cam Ward!" one fan said.
#ward #tennessee #simmons #Chicago
Ward has also had a troubling start. He has been criticized for his efficiency and decision-making all season. In seven games, he has thrown for 1,179 passing yards with four touchdowns and five interceptions.
There have been rumors of the **** ans looking to go away from Ward, especially after defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons' trade to the Chicago Bears. But NFL insider Adam Schefter reported that the **** ans will continue to back Ward despite a 1-6 start.
Fans reacted to Schefter's comments.
"It will be their ultimate downfall. They are not a QB developing team, or they make bad picks with high draft choices. Vince Young, Jake Locker, Will Levis, now it's Cam Ward!" one fan said.
#ward #tennessee #simmons #Chicago
2 days ago
The Arizona Cardinals have made one trade already. As the trade deadline approaches, many believe they could make at least one other deal.
Outside linebacker Josh Sweat has been the subject of rumors since the offseason. Those rumors are heating up, although it is no more than people speculating fit.
ESPN's Jeremy Fowler is hearing that rivals see the Cardinals moving Sweat. One source considers the Dallas Cowboys, whom the Cardinals play this weekend, a good fit.
Fowler gives a Sweat trade about 40% odds and notes the Cowboys, San Francisco 49ers and Chicago Bears as teams to watch.
With the Bears acquiring defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons from the Tennessee ******* ans, they likely aren't a possibility now. It seems unlikely the Cardinals would send their best edge rusher to a division rival like the 49ers, so the Cowboys make the most sense.
#cardinals #outside
Outside linebacker Josh Sweat has been the subject of rumors since the offseason. Those rumors are heating up, although it is no more than people speculating fit.
ESPN's Jeremy Fowler is hearing that rivals see the Cardinals moving Sweat. One source considers the Dallas Cowboys, whom the Cardinals play this weekend, a good fit.
Fowler gives a Sweat trade about 40% odds and notes the Cowboys, San Francisco 49ers and Chicago Bears as teams to watch.
With the Bears acquiring defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons from the Tennessee ******* ans, they likely aren't a possibility now. It seems unlikely the Cardinals would send their best edge rusher to a division rival like the 49ers, so the Cowboys make the most sense.
#cardinals #outside
2 days ago
The Stillwater girls soccer team's hopes for reaching the state semifinals ended Thursday with a 2-1 loss to Mounds View during a state quarterfinal match at Spring Lake Park high school.
The Panthers struck first with 17 minutes left before halftime after midfielder Ida Wynn sent the ball cross net from the Ponies goalie Elin Hendrickson.
Mounds View took 6 shots on the Stillwater goal, coming up successful once in each half.
The second, and game deciding goal, found the net with 32 minutes left in the second half. Defensive midfielder Molly Nystrom beat Hendrickson at the net.
"It felt really awesome to score. I don't score a lot because I play center back," Nystrom said.
#mounds
The Panthers struck first with 17 minutes left before halftime after midfielder Ida Wynn sent the ball cross net from the Ponies goalie Elin Hendrickson.
Mounds View took 6 shots on the Stillwater goal, coming up successful once in each half.
The second, and game deciding goal, found the net with 32 minutes left in the second half. Defensive midfielder Molly Nystrom beat Hendrickson at the net.
"It felt really awesome to score. I don't score a lot because I play center back," Nystrom said.
#mounds
2 days ago
In five games played since he emerged from a two-year retirement, Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald has yet to record a sack. During his weekly press conference on Thursday, Donald was asked whether that bothers him.
"No. I didn't come back for individual stats," Donald told reporters. "I would love to have some stats, but I'm here to just play the game. When the plays present themselves, take advantage of it, try to get my plays, but my main focus is trying to find ways to help this team win. That's the goal. I didn't come back to try to earn individual accolades or anything. I did that, accomplished that. It doesn't excite me. The only thing that excites me is winning so I'm just playing a football game, trying to do what I can to help this team. As long as we win, I can build off everything else and get myself better off that."
The Rams have won only three of seven games, and Donald has yet to play with Myles Garrett. Even though it was the trade that brought Garrett to the Rams that lit the fuse to get Donald to return.
Against the Raiders in Week 7, Donald was on the field for 74 percent of the Rams' defensive snaps. It was his highest rate of the season, and the more he's on the field, the more likely he'll be to get some of those stats he'd love to have — even if winning continues to be the focus.
The Rams should get their fourth win of the season on Sunday, against the 0-6 Chargers. If they don't, the Rams will be 3-5 through eight games and dangerously close to having too many losses to play beyond Week 18.
#games #garrett #week #defensive
"No. I didn't come back for individual stats," Donald told reporters. "I would love to have some stats, but I'm here to just play the game. When the plays present themselves, take advantage of it, try to get my plays, but my main focus is trying to find ways to help this team win. That's the goal. I didn't come back to try to earn individual accolades or anything. I did that, accomplished that. It doesn't excite me. The only thing that excites me is winning so I'm just playing a football game, trying to do what I can to help this team. As long as we win, I can build off everything else and get myself better off that."
The Rams have won only three of seven games, and Donald has yet to play with Myles Garrett. Even though it was the trade that brought Garrett to the Rams that lit the fuse to get Donald to return.
Against the Raiders in Week 7, Donald was on the field for 74 percent of the Rams' defensive snaps. It was his highest rate of the season, and the more he's on the field, the more likely he'll be to get some of those stats he'd love to have — even if winning continues to be the focus.
The Rams should get their fourth win of the season on Sunday, against the 0-6 Chargers. If they don't, the Rams will be 3-5 through eight games and dangerously close to having too many losses to play beyond Week 18.
#games #garrett #week #defensive
2 days ago
Thursday night's American Conference matchup between Florida Atlantic and North Texas featured a strong candidate for fumble of the year.
Following a 28-yard pass from Tayven Jackson to Dalton Carnes, the Mean Green had an opportunity to break a 24-24 tie before the half with a field goal or perhaps even a touchdown with 27 seconds remaining in the second quarter.
On the next play, Jackson flipped a short pass to Jahiem White out of the backfield. White made a dash toward the first-down marker, then attempted a hurdle toward the line to gain.
However, FAU defensive back Travis Jackson hit White as he was in the air, causing the ball to pop loose. White did not get out of bounds before losing the ball and the carom went back onto the field, recovered by defensive lineman Tycoolhill Luman.
FAU took over at its 34-yard line with 11 seconds left before halftime. That didn't give the Owls much time to do anything else but attempt three short passes before ending the half on a deep throw that fell incomplete.
#jackson
Following a 28-yard pass from Tayven Jackson to Dalton Carnes, the Mean Green had an opportunity to break a 24-24 tie before the half with a field goal or perhaps even a touchdown with 27 seconds remaining in the second quarter.
On the next play, Jackson flipped a short pass to Jahiem White out of the backfield. White made a dash toward the first-down marker, then attempted a hurdle toward the line to gain.
However, FAU defensive back Travis Jackson hit White as he was in the air, causing the ball to pop loose. White did not get out of bounds before losing the ball and the carom went back onto the field, recovered by defensive lineman Tycoolhill Luman.
FAU took over at its 34-yard line with 11 seconds left before halftime. That didn't give the Owls much time to do anything else but attempt three short passes before ending the half on a deep throw that fell incomplete.
#jackson
