Week 9 of the college football season is officially here! And in the Big Ten, that means another loaded slate of conference games, with UCLA the lone school facing a nonconference opponent.
So what can we expect to see in the league this week? Here are my Big Ten picks for Week 9:
USC's loss in Madison last week looks even worse after this one.
The Terrapins remain winless in Big Ten play.
The Wolverines do not have a quarterback, but they probably do not need one to beat Rutgers.

#week #terrapins

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

The Detroit Red Wings are moving forward without Dylan Larkin, and two of the team's biggest stars have made it clear that the remaining players aren't going to let the controversy derail their season.
Following Thursday night's emotional 4-1 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks, Moritz Seider and Alex DeBrincat spoke about the challenges facing Detroit after Larkin informed the organization he would no longer play while awaiting a trade.
And while neither player dismissed what Larkin has meant to the franchise, both emphasized the importance of having players who are committed to the team.
Their comments offered an interesting glimpse into a locker room suddenly facing life without its former captain.
Oct 24, 2026; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Detroit Red Wings defenseman Moritz Seider (53) against the Calgary Flames during the second period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)

#larkin #wings #seider

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

Borussia Dortmund are preparing for a massive top-of-the-table showdown against Bayern Munich this weekend as both sides look to break their current deadlock at the summit. Head coach Niko Kovac has acknowledged the significant threat posed by the record champions, specifically highlighting the form of their star forward.
Kovac has offered high praise for Kane as Dortmund prepare to face a Bayern side led by the newly crowned Ballon d'Or winner. The England captain has continued his devastating form in Germany, prompting the Dortmund boss to recognize the sheer scale of the task facing his defense on Saturday. Kovac noted that the striker's recent accolades speak for themselves, emphasizing that he has successfully reached a new level since moving to the Bundesliga.
"There's no need to say a word about him. The mere fact that he received this ****** le says everything about him. He was already a top player in England. To take another leap forward now is sensational," said Kovac on the club's official website
The stakes could not be higher for this edition of Der Klassiker, with both teams currently tied on 17 points after seven matchdays. While Bayern hold the top spot due to a superior goal difference, Dortmund have the opportunity to leapfrog their rivals. Kovac believes the current competitiveness at the top is a breath of fresh air for the league. However, the coach warned that excitement does not equate to an easy path to victory. He demanded absolute focus from his squad, stressing that only their best football would suffice in Munich.
"This certainly makes things a lot more exciting than in recent years. But that doesn't make it any easier, because FC Bayern Munich is undoubtedly the best of the best—not just in Germany, but also in Europe. We have to play at the very highest level. But we're Dortmund—we have our own standards, and we intend to live up to them," Kovac insisted.

#dortmund #best #germany #form

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

Manchester United are considering an ambitious January move for Leeds United striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin as Michael Carrick searches for solutions to his side's growing attacking concerns.
According to Laurie Whitwell and Beren Cross of The Athletic, United have begun ****** sing potential centre-forward targets ahead of the winter transfer window, with Calvert-Lewin emerging as a player of interest.
The 29-year-old England international has rediscovered his goalscoring touch at Elland Road, making him an intriguing option for a Manchester United side facing an increasingly complicated period without Benjamin Sesko.
However, persuading Leeds to part with their leading striker could prove exceptionally difficult.
Calvert-Lewin's resurgence represents one of the more compelling stories in English football. Having endured several injury-disrupted seasons at Everton, the striker has rebuilt his reputation since joining Leeds on a free transfer in the summer of 2025.

#leeds

Will Panthers make a trade to fix banged-up cornerback room? Dave Canales weighs in appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Carolina Panthers have a growing problem in their secondary. Head coach Dave Canales, though, is not ready to reveal whether the team will seek outside help before the NFL trade deadline. Following Thursday night's 27-19 loss to the Green Bay Packers, Canales addressed the possibility of a roster move. He also pointed to an internal option who could soon get his opportunity. With several cornerbacks sidelined, Carolina's depth is facing an increasingly difficult test.
Canales on whether latest CB injuries might prompt a trade: Defers to Dan Morgan, says Corey Thornton will be getting an opportunity “real soon.” pic.twitter.com/fqjPDhrwHJ
— Joe Person (josephperson) October 30, 2026
Watch sports LIVE with fuboTV (free trial)

#dave

Braves predicted to sign $85M ex-Cubs Gold Glove finalist with power bat after career-best season originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Atlanta Braves won the NL East last season and nearly reached 100 wins, which was a great accomplishment. However, the beginning of the season was plagued by injuries and a suspension.
The Braves signed Jurickson Profar two offseasons ago, but the move has been nothing but detrimental. In fact, he has missed 243 games due to suspensions, including a year-long suspension in 2026.
"Atlanta Braves designated hitter Jurickson Profar is facing a 162-game suspension after testing positive for a performance-enhancing drug for the second time in the last year, sources told ESPN on Tuesday. Profar, 33, is the sixth player to receive a 162-game ban for PED use since Major League Baseball increased the penalty for two-time offenders to a full season in 2014. He will forfeit the entirety of his $15 million salary," ESPN's Jeff Passan wrote.
Heading into the offseason, one of the biggest questions for Atlanta will be how it addresses left field.

#season #sporting

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

Carolina Panthers QB Bryce Young completed 23 of 41 passes for 209 yards, one touchdown, and one interception in a Week 8 loss to the Green Bay Packers.
SOURCE: USA TODAY
Why It Matters: It was clear from the jump that the Panthers wanted to control the game with Chuba Hubbard. It worked early, but once the Packers pushed out to a 27-10 lead, it was up to Young to move the ball. He had some success, mostly on quick-hitting passes, but was under constant duress, getting sacked six times on the night. The Panthers get a few extra days to regroup before facing the Broncos in Week 9. We'll see if that's enough to help get their protection issues sorted out and get Young back to the player he was in five games before the bye. Given his struggles over the last two weeks, however, it'd be a tough call to slot him into your starting lineup against Denver.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Bryce Young takes a beating in Week 8 setback

#passes

No. 22 Florida State women's soccer bounced back from Saturday's loss to Notre Dame with a 2-1 victory over No. 5 Duke in Tallahassee.
The Seminoles entered the matchup looking to respond after being shut out 2-0 by Notre Dame. Facing another ranked ACC opponent, Florida State came out strong, scoring twice in the opening 13 minutes.
With the win, Florida State improved to 8-2-3, while Duke fell to 9-2-4.
Florida State made several changes to its starting lineup, which included Wrianna Hudson, Shaneil Buckley, Ryder Ajeto, Sam Erbach, Peyton McGovern, Nawreen Ahmad, Tanner Strickland, Grace Hoytink, Bridget Mutipula, Janet Okeke and Kate Ockene.
At 9:24, Buckley used her speed to make a run toward Duke's goal. With the Blue Devils' goalkeeper coming out to challenge, Buckley found an opening and scored to give the Seminoles an early 1-0 lead.

#state

Josh Reaume endured a challenging afternoon in Friday's Love's RV Stop 225 at Talladega Superspeedway, finishing 22nd after starting 33rd. The Team Reaume driver gained 11 positions during the event and briefly led one lap in his No. 22 Ford.
Reaume began the race near the rear of the field, facing the challenge of advancing through a competitive 36-truck lineup. However, the unpredictable drafting conditions provided several opportunities for competitors to gain positions as the running order constantly changed.
The first major accident occurred on Lap 17, collecting eight trucks and forcing NASCAR to temporarily stop the race. Reaume avoided elimination in that incident and continued battling for track position as the event progressed. His Ford also remained competitive during the second stage, when multiple drivers experienced tire problems and varying pit strategies reshuffled the field.
Reaume eventually moved into the lead for one lap, providing a notable moment during his afternoon. The final stage featured additional accidents and an overtime finish, but Reaume could not remain on the lead lap. He ultimately completed 82 laps and finished 22nd, four laps behind winner Sammy Smith.
The performance earned Reaume 15 points and represented an improvement of 11 positions from his original starting spot.

#Event #field

Frankie Muniz delivered an encouraging performance during Friday's Love's RV Stop 225 at Talladega Superspeedway, finishing 12th after starting 31st. The Team Reaume driver gained 19 positions during an afternoon filled with major accidents and unpredictable drafting conditions.
Muniz began the race near the rear of the field, facing the challenge of working through a competitive 36-truck lineup. His No. 33 Ford remained in competition during the opening stage while several drivers encountered significant problems. The first major accident occurred on Lap 17, eliminating multiple competitors and dramatically reshaping the running order.
Muniz avoided involvement in the incident and continued improving his position as the race progressed. Another accident on Lap 57 eliminated additional trucks, creating opportunities for drivers who had remained out of trouble. Muniz continued competing through the final stage and stayed on the lead lap as the field prepared for an overtime finish.
He ultimately crossed the finish line 12th, completing all 86 laps and finishing 10.163 seconds behind winner Sammy Smith. The result earned Muniz 25 points and represented an important performance during his 2026 Truck Series campaign.
His ability to advance through the field and complete the demanding superspeedway event provided a positive result for Team Reaume.

#muniz #field

Photos by Yamaha and Rob Gray (Polarity Photo).
Yamaha has locked in its Moto2 line-up for 2027, signing Moto3 standout Álvaro Carpe to join the returning Alberto Ferrández on the BLU CRU Pramac Yamaha Moto2 Team. Both riders are 19 and represent Yamaha's ongoing push to funnel young talent up through the categories via its BLU CRU project.
Ferrandez is currently in his first full Moto2 season, partnering with Izan Guevara with the Pramac Yamaha team. Facing a new category and several circuits he'd never seen before, his rookie year presented a steep learning curve, with Ferrández currently sitting 21st overall. For his second season, Yamaha expects him to take a big step forward, with Team Director Gino Borsoi setting a clear benchmark for Ferrandez to "establish himself consistently inside the top ten from the beginning of the championship."
Carpe arrives from Moto3, where he spent the past two seasons with the Red Bull KTM Ajo team. Carpe finished fourth overall as a rookie in 2025, and finds himself in the same position this season. The team is tempering expectations for his first year in the intermediate category, with Borsoi hoping to see him "start translating his potential into encouraging results from the middle of the season onwards."
Carpe will be taking over the seat currently occupied by Izan Guevara, who currently sits second in the Moto2 standings, trailing Manuel González by just 5.5 points, with five rounds remaining. Guevara is set to move up to Pramac Yamaha's MotoGP team in 2027. Guevara sets an example for Carpe's and Ferrández's path, progressing each year from a 22nd place finish in 2023 to fighting for the **** le this season.

#moto2 #ferr #currently

Forever Young, who last year made history as the first ***** anese horse to win the Breeders' Cup Classic, vies for a rare repeat in the showpiece of the $34 million racing extravaganza at Keeneland on Saturday.
Trainer Yoshito Yahagi sounded a confident note after the well-traveled five-year-old enjoyed a "perfect gallop" on the Lexington, Kentucky, track on Wednesday in his final tuneup for the 1 1/4-mile, $7 million race.
"The horse is moving beautifully," Yahagi said. "I'm very satisfied. There is no concern about the horse's condition. He is very fresh."
Forever Young was installed as the 2-1 early favorite after drawing the fifth post, and Yahagi acknowledged that the challenge facing the two-time Saudi Cup-winner and jockey Ryusei Sakai is somewhat different this year as they try to follow Tiznow in 2000 and 2001 as the only repeat Classic winners.
"I think the quality of the rivals is the same as last year, but our position this year is quite different from last year," Yahagi said. "Last year, we have to take on the challenge to win the Breeders' Cup Classic. But this year, I think we are in the position that everybody is targeting us, so it's not quite easy to defend the ***** le."

#yahagi #young #repeat

Meghan Markle is reportedly planning to challenge Prince William and Kate Middleton. According to sources, the Sussexes are facing new tensions with the monarchy after the King issued a letter reaffirming their status as "non-working royals." As such, Markle is allegedly planning to share more royal secrets in her upcoming projects.
According to OK! Magazine, Meghan Markle is ready to fight Prince William and Kate Middleton after a letter confirming the Sussexes' status. "Meghan suspects William influenced his father's decision to put her and Harry in their place, and believes Kate supported the move," a royal insider told the publication.
The insider continued, "Meghan has correctly interpreted the Palace's position as an attempt to reinforce the Sussexes' exclusion from official royal life." This is "despite their apparent efforts to improve family relations."
However, "she is now ready to take on William and Kate, and fight back against them by spilling even more royal secrets in her future streaming projects." The ******* ss of Sussex "thinks she has nothing to lose now." Another source said, "Meghan believes she and Harry should respond more ******* ertively to negative publicity."
They continued, "The Sussexes could increasingly use their own professional relationships and communications platforms to explain their position." This means "more documentaries and takedowns of the royal family from their U.K. home."

#royal #markle #according

Erika Kirk is facing fresh online criticism after a video of her appearance on the Chicks On The Right podcast went viral, with social media users debating her hairstyle, long extensions and fashion choices.
The controversy began with an October 23 post on X featuring the mom of two on the podcast set. During the clip, the hosts drew attention to her long hair, describing it as "real" and "spectacular."
However, rather than focusing on the praise, many viewers questioned whether Kirk's hair was entirely natural and criticized what they considered her over-the-top style despite "grieving."
X / chicksonright
One commenter suggested that the look involved professional styling and additional hairpieces, writing, "She for sure has an extension expert on staff who maintains and styles her hair. The elaborate plaits that they add to her hair are obviously hair pieces, and they are using long clip in pieces to add volume."

#kirk

A report suggests that Meghan Markle received an apology from her half-brother, who had previously sided with their father, Thomas Markle Sr. He reportedly now understands his father's character and why Markle kept him away from the family. A revelation following the ***** ss of Sussex's recent comments on the serious allegations against him.
The Sun reports that Markle's half-brother, Thomas Markle Jr., has asked for her forgiveness after supporting their father, Thomas Markle Sr., who's facing serious allegations at present.
According to the outlet, he said, "I'm so, so sorry. I now know I have been protecting the wrong person for the past nine years." He now calls the man he defended a "monster," claiming he finally sees the clear picture.
"I now know exactly why you don't talk to him any more and why you won't let him meet Harry or his grandchildren. And I'm ashamed that I spent years taking his side when you fell out with him," he further added.
The half-brother further addressed Markle, acknowledging that they aren't close. However, he remembered the time they spent together during her childhood. He revealed that he held her and looked after her when she was a baby. He also asked her to accept his apology and wished her family well.

#apology #asked

CLEVELAND — A lack of offense put the Guardians' backs firmly against the wall against the Chicago White Sox in an American League Division Series before Jose Ramirez came to the rescue in three consecutive games.
Now in the AL Championship Series, an all-too-familiar — and all-too-unwelcome — lack of timely hitting has every ounce of the Guardians' weight again on their heels, with nowhere else to go but forward or home.
The Guardians lost 3-1 to the Rays in Game 5 of the ALCS, giving Tampa Bay a 3-2 series lead and putting the Rays on the brink of a World Series berth. Trailing in the series for the first time, the Guardians travel to Tampa Bay (without the benefit of an off day to regroup after Game 4 was pushed back) for must-win Games 6 and 7.
They had to win three consecutive games to get to the ALCS. Now, they must again defy the odds and rally to win two connective road games to play the Milwaukee Brewers in the World Series.
"I think it'll help a ton knowing we're able to do it, facing elimination," said outfielder Steven Kwan, who made two highlight reel defensive plays in Game 5 to save at least two runs. "I think we feel a little better on this one as opposed to the [ALDS] since we've got some wins under our belt.

#series #games #alcs

Oct. 19—COLUMBIA — South Carolina returns from a bye week to take on No. 11 Tennessee on Saturday, the game kicking off at 3:30 p.m. on ESPN.
The Gamecocks (3-3, 1-3 SEC) re-started their season by whipping Florida 38-19 the last time out. Meanwhile, a Tennessee team (6-1, 3-1) that struggled to beat a bad Arkansas team and facing a quarterback controversy soundly defeated Alabama this week 26-10.
It will be the resumption of a series that was played every year since 1992 but has been on a brief hiatus. The Gamecocks won their last home game against the Volunteers but were pounded in the last game of the series, a 41-20 loss in Knoxville in 2023.
What time does Tennessee at South Carolina start?
Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. on Saturday.

#game #gamecocks

Serious unrest has rocked Olympique de Marseille. The French club's official store, located in the heart of the city, has been violently looted and vandalized amid a wave of street disturbances. The incident has left the club facing significant financial losses and sent shockwaves through French football.
The incident began when an unknown number of ******* ailants forced their way into the club's store. Once inside, they ransacked the premises: official shirts, training gear and various other merchandise disappeared from the displays within minutes, prompting a swift police response.
According to a statement, after ******* sing the scale of the raid, local authorities sealed off the store to begin investigating the scene and collecting evidence. The club, meanwhile, has been forced to order the temporary suspension of in-store sales until safe conditions can be restored.
Olympique de Marseille's board has issued a statement unequivocally condemning these acts of vandalism, stressing that surveillance footage has already been handed over to police to identify those responsible. Club sources emphasize that this attack does not tarnish the fans' commitment or the club's image.
Police investigators are keeping all lines of inquiry open, and arrests are expected in the coming hours following a review of the footage. The store will remain closed to the public indefinitely while repairs are carried out and a final ******* sment is made of the financial damage suffered by the club.

#official #forced

Bengaluru: When batters are scoring at 11.46 runs an over, even quality bowling attacks can be made to look ordinary. India's T20I series against the West Indies has exposed the vulnerability of the hosts' pace unit, with flat pitches, dew and short boundaries proving a punishing combination for bowlers.

West Indies' stunning 250-run chase in Ranchi, completed with nine **** to spare, prompted a stern **** sment from India head coach Gautam Gambhir.

"These bowlers are our bowlers, not someone else's bowlers. Their careers are at stake," he had said, underlining the scrutiny facing the attack.

With the exception of Indore, where India successfully defended 223, the bowlers struggled to contain a fearless West Indies batting line-up. While the absence of Jasprit **** rah and, to an extent, Hardik Pandya has been felt, the bigger concern for the team management is the inconsistency shown by Arshdeep Singh, Mayank Yadav and Prince Yadav.

The two young quicks, Mayank and Prince, have alternated between brilliance and waywardness during the series, highlighting the challenges of adjusting to different match situations. The fourth T20I in Hyderabad offered a clear example. India conceded 18 extras, including 13 wides. Arshdeep accounted for six, while Mayank and Prince leaked two and one, respectively. Their attempts to execute wide yorkers and fuller deliveries repeatedly missed the mark, allowing the West Indies batters to maintain the pressure.

India's lack of proven T20 pace-bowling depth has consequently become a talking point. That has put renewed focus on the return of Bhuvneshwar **** ar, whose recall after nearly four years away from the national side could prove timely.

The experienced swing bowler has enjoyed a productive run in the IPL, taking 45 wickets across the last two seasons. More importantly, his success has been built on control and execution rather than sheer pace, qualities that India's younger quicks have often lacked in this series.

Conditions, however, have offered little respite to bowlers. High-scoring surfaces and heavy dew have meant that even small lapses have come at a significant cost.

As India prepare for a demanding tour of New Zealand, they know the challenges ahead will be very different. The pitches may offer more **** istance, but the key question remains whether the bowling group can quickly adapt and improve its consistency.

On the eve of the rain-affected series finale in Bengaluru, fast-bowling coach Morne Morkel urged observers to consider the physical and mental demands placed on modern cricketers.

"We sometimes forget that mental fatigue plays a big part. We have to manage that and be smart with it. Some of the players went for the Asian Games and then straight into a full series against the West Indies. These guys are also human," Morkel said.

"Execution and skills become better when you've recovered, slept well and mentally refreshed. That's a challenge. We're going to N

Barcelona defender Eric Garcia has expressed his frustration after suffering a muscle injury that will sideline him for several weeks, ruling him out of two of the club's most important fixtures against Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid.
The 25-year-old sustained the injury during Barcelona's 5-2 victory over Real Betis, turning a memorable afternoon into a personal setback.
After scoring his first goal of the season, Garcia was forced off in the 90th minute and now faces an extended spell on the sidelines.
The defender has a muscle injury in the rectus femoris of his right thigh and is expected to be unavailable for three to four weeks.
His absence is also set to extend beyond the PSG and El Clasico encounters, with Barcelona facing further fixtures against Alaves, Aston Villa and Atletico Madrid before the second international break of the season.

#defender #weeks #season

The Los Angeles Rams are facing growing concerns over their special teams after an 18-16 defeat to the Arizona Cardinals left Sean McVay's side with a 2-4 record.
Los Angeles lost kicker Blake Grupe to a knee injury during the game, raising the possibility that the team could need another replacement after releasing Harrison Mevis following his missed kick against the Buffalo Bills.
The latest setback has added to the pressure on a Rams team that entered the season with Super Bowl ambitions but has struggled to find consistency.
According toThe Athletic's Nate Atkins, the Rams are becoming increasingly nervous about their special teams unit as the problems continue to mount.
"The problems are just so widespread that it can be hard to know where to start," Atkins wrote. "The kicking game is chief among them, because the Rams could need a third starting kicker if Grupe's knee injury is serious, after Grupe replaced the waived Harrison Mevis last week."

#grupe #mevis #kicker

The overall performance certainly wasn't perfect, but the Green Bay Packers still rolled to a two-score win over the visiting Dallas Cowboys on "Sunday Night Football" from Lambeau Field in Week 6. Brian Schottenheimer's team was well-rested after playing on Thursday night in Week 5 and not lacking motivation after a humbling home defeat in primetime, but the Packers still raced out to a 17-0 lead and ended up leading the game by two scores for most of the night. Matt LaFleur's team has won three straight games and is 4-2 overall, an acceptable record given the ups and downs of the early season.
Three big things from the Packers' win over the Cowboys:
Facing Dak Prescott, Javonte Williams, CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens without Micah Parsons, Edgerrin Cooper and Javon Hargrave provided a big test for Jonathan Gannon's defense, and the group passed it with flying colors. The Cowboys managed only 13 points, of which seven came in garbage time, and Gannon continually had Prescott under pressure and making rushed and confused decisions against the blitz or the pre-snap appearance of a blitz. Prescott averaged only 4.8 yards per attempt, and the Packers got a pair of interceptions inside their own 30-yard line and a pair of fourth down stops on pass attempts in the fourth quarter. More and more, the home opener disaster against the Atlanta Falcons is looking like a blip on the radar. The Packers have allowed fewer than 14 points in three straight games since.
The Packers offensive line took several steps forward in games against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Chicago Bears, largely due to the settling of performances at both guard spots. But Sunday night represented a step in the wrong direction and provided evidence that the problems along the offensive line aren't solved quite yet. Jordan Love was under pressure on 45.5 percent of his pass attempts, his highest percentage since Week 1. And the run game accomplished next to nothing, averaging only 2.2 yards per attempt overall and 1.8 yards on runs by Pierre Strong Jr., MarShawn Lloyd and Kaleb Johnson. The Packers got by because Love was excellent under pressure early, and the defense made enough stops so that the struggles moving the ball in the second half didn't matter. The inconsistency of the offensive line, drops in big spots and untimely penalties still look like the Packers' biggest hurdles.
Rookie kicker Trey Smack calmed fears of any prolonged struggles by making all five of his kicks, including all three field goals. Even on a breezy night inside Lambeau Field, Smack enjoyed a bounce-back performance -- even if only one of his five kicks was from over 40 yards (a 44-yard field goal). More importantly, Smack didn't let last week's issues bleed into a new opportunity. Against the Bears, his three misses cost the Packers seven points. On Sunday night, Smack's five converted kicks created 11 points in a 10-point win.

#field

Meghan Markle is reportedly facing fresh tensions with her US team after a promotional image for her As Ever brand drew criticism over its cooking setup. The reported fallout comes as the ******* ss of Sussex seeks to hire senior British staff. However, an insider claims her history of staff turnover could make it harder for her to attract experienced candidates.
According to sources cited by Naughty But Nice, Meghan Markle has grown frustrated with her US team after critics questioned an As Ever promotional cooking photo. The image appeared to show a gas stove that was switched off, leading critics to question the cooking setup. However, the photo alone does not confirm whether Meghan was actually cooking or whether she used the stove at another time.
An insider claimed Meghan expected her team to catch potential problems before the image reached the public. "She exploded," the source said. "It was, 'How did ******* ody catch this?' Meghan expects her team to protect her from exactly this kind of ridicule." However, her reaction may be making it harder for her to hire new staff. "She blames the American team when things go wrong, while prospective British employees are watching," the source explains. "Nobody wants to become the next person blamed — or the next departure that makes headlines."
Meghan is reportedly looking to strengthen her team in the UK, including by hiring an executive ******* istant. However, the insider claims that attracting experienced British candidates has become difficult because of the attention surrounding staff departures over the years. The source argued that a prestigious ******* le and the opportunity to work closely with Meghan may not be enough to convince top candidates to accept a role.
"Meghan can offer a glamorous ******* le, but the best people aren't biting," the insider told Naughty But Nice. "Her reputation gets there before the job offer does." The source added that prospective employees may wonder whether they would have a different experience from previous staff members. "People see the turnover and think, 'Why would it be different for me?'" the insider claimed.

#however

Mandy Moore is facing another round of "mean girl" accusations, this time over an interaction from more than two decades ago!
The actress has been pulled into a new conversation after Christy Carlson Romano recalled an awkward encounter with Moore at a 2000 party for "The Princess Diaries." Romano said the interaction hurt her, bringing fresh attention to Moore after she was recently linked to another friendship drama.
Mandy Moore was recently drawn into controversy surrounding Ashley Tisdale's "toxic" mom group essay. However, Moore and Hilary Duff pushed back against the idea that any "mean girl" behavior occurred.
JPA/AFF-USA.com / MEGA
Mandy Moore found herself at the center of an unexpected accusation after Christy Carlson Romano recalled meeting her at "The Princess Diaries" wrap party. The incident hurt her and eventually led her to refer to Moore as a "mean girl" in private, Romano said.

#christy

The USS Abraham Lincoln, the US aircraft carrier that has been deployed for nearly a year and has spent months supporting US military operations against Iran, is scheduled to dock in San Diego on Thursday afternoon.
It marks the end of a deployment that has been described as "one of the most operationally intense and consequential of the modern era" and that became marked by a record-stretch at sea, repeated deployment extensions, and reports of supply shortages, and deteriorating morale and mental health among some crew members.
The Lincoln left San Diego last November, initially bound for the Pacific. But it was redirected to the Middle East after the US and Israel launched their war with Iran in late February. The carrier remained there until late August, when it was relieved by the USS George Washington and began its journey home.
Earlier in August, the Lincoln's deployment made headlines and faced scrutiny as reports began surfacing about poor living conditions aboard the ship, including shortages of supplies and water, plumbing problems, low morale, and worsening mental health among the roughly 5,000 personnel on the carrier. Two leading military newspapers also reported that there had been two attempts by sailors to jump overboard, causing concern among families and military health experts.
The reports prompted outrage from Democrats, while senior officials in the Trump administration pushed back. Pete Hegseth, the US defense secretary, called the reports "completely misrepresented", and when reporters asked Donald Trump if he thought the deployment had gone on too long, he responded: "Not nearly long enough" – a comment that angered some naval families.

#military #Health

Pfizer (NYSE: PFE) is offering a dividend yield of roughly 6% today. That is well above the roughly 1% yield on offer from the S&P 500 index (SNPINDEX: ^GSPC) and the 1.4% average yield of pharmaceutical stocks. There are good reasons for the negative view of Pfizer, but investors may be ignoring the company's over 100-year history of success. Here's why you may want to consider buying this out-of-favor dividend stock while others are fearful.
Pfizer's stock rocketed higher during the coronavirus pandemic, as investors myopically focused on the company's COVID vaccine. When COVID turned out to be a less serious long-term threat than originally believed, Wall Street dumped Pfizer. At this point, the stock is down more than 50% from its 2021 high. That is a big part of the story behind the high yield.
Missed Nvidia in 2009? This Rare Signal Is Flashing Again. In 2009, a "Double Down" signal flashed for a little-known chipmaker called Nvidia. For the first time in years, that same "Total Conviction" signal is flashing for a company 1/100th the size of Nvidia. Continue »
However, there's another piece that is more fundamental to the pharmaceutical industry. Like all drug makers, Pfizer's drugs receive time-limited patent protections. When patents expire, generic versions of the medications can be produced. That generally leads to a dramatic decline in revenue from Pfizer's drugs. Right now, Pfizer is facing down some notable patent expirations. This is a completely normal dynamic in the pharmaceutical sector.
Patent expirations are why drug companies are always on the lookout for new drugs. The problem is that patent expirations follow a set schedule, but drug development does not. Pfizer's drug pipeline isn't producing major new drugs right now, and it looks like it may have to work through a period in which new drugs won't fully offset revenue lost to patent expirations. This isn't uncommon, either, but investors are likely focusing on the short term rather than the long term when it comes to Pfizer.

#patent #yield #drug #expirations