Texas volleyball has shown flashes of brilliance through the first three weeks of the season.
It has been swept (Louisville, Nebraska) and it brought out the brooms themselves (TCU, USC). The Longhorns won the fourth set against No. 8 SMU 28-26, but ended up losing the match in the fifth set.
The final game before conference play was a 3-1 win against No. 6 Wisconsin and it is probably, statistically, Texas' best game. Head coach Jerritt Elliott called it "the most organized and dialed-in that we've been all season long.
"We've had about three and a half total practices, so we're just trying to kind of get a rhythm," Elliott said after the match Sunday afternoon.
The Longhorns found it against the team that eliminated them from the NCAA Tournament last season in their most complete game yet.

#game #longhorns #we 've

Jennifer Lopez posed for a selfie in a plunging white top and matching bottoms.
She paired the tailored piece with flashes of gold jewelry and accessories.
Lopez recently shared photos from her poolside Labor Day weekend.
It's no great secret that some styling rules were made to be broken, and it seems that Jennifer Lopez isn't quite ready to give up her whites just yet, even though Labor Day has come and gone.
Jennifer Lopez wore a belted all-white outfit.
Credit: Jennifer Lopez/Instagram

#matching

I know "respite" may not rhyme with "tonight", but it sure passed the eye test before the season began I hit 'publish'.
Happy Monday Dawg fans, and welcome to today's Dots.
This Husky offense has performed a high-wire act over the first two games, surviving a number of falls and defying death only because of the safety net of the Dawgs' defense.
Even with Demond as the only viable rusher, the Husky offense flashes potential to put up points. But 3 dropped passes and another poor running-game thwarted any chance for Jedd's offense to build momentum. How many points did UW leave on the field this week? Last week?
The Dawg defense gave up just one meaningful play to Utah State through the first 3 quarters, but that 78-yard TD strike was big indeed.

#first #only #defense #Monday

Healthy Tanner Houck Hopes to Be a Difference Maker for Red Sox in Playoffs originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Tanner Houck started his career with plenty of hype, acting as someone who can do anything if given the opportunity. Coming off an injury that kept him out of action throughout he 2026 season, he hopes the Red Sox could use him come playoff time.
The 24th overall pick in the 2017 MLB Draft, Houck was picked up as a starting pitcher. A chameleon, he adapted to any situation, acting as a starter, reliever, and closer. In 2022, he appeared in 32 games and was as durable as one could be.
Houck has shown flashes of brilliance but hasn't found consistency. This year, he has been rehabbing after undergoing a special surgery of his ulnar collateral ligament. It's a "hybrid reconstruction" with a flexor tendon repair.
That was last August. This year, the Red Sox, with high expectations, struggled at first. Now, they are playoff contenders, and Houck wouldn't mind adding to the fun. That includes rejoining the team before the season ended.

#playoff #healthy

The South Carolina Gamecocks host the Towson Tigers on Saturday, September 12, at Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia, with kickoff scheduled for 7:00 PM ET on SEC Network+.
Sep 5, 2026; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks wide receiver Donovan Murph (6) makes a touchdown reception against the Kent State Golden Flashes in the second quarter at Williams-Brice Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images
Date: Saturday, September 12, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Channel: SEC Network+

#columbia

Baker Mayfield gets dangerous weapon back ahead of Bengals clash originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Emeka Egbuka appears ready to go for Week 1 after a toe injury created some uncertainty around his status during the preseason.
Egbuka returned to full practice this week and is expected to play when Tampa Bay takes on the Cincinnati Bengals, giving quarterback Baker Mayfield one of his most dangerous weapons for a matchup that has the potential to become a high-scoring affair.
The second-year receiver enters the season with plenty of expectations after showing flashes of becoming a legitimate No. 1 option early in his rookie campaign.
Egbuka demonstrated his ability to create separation, make plays after the catch and stretch defenses before injuries became a factor. His own health issues, combined with injuries affecting Mayfield, prevented Tampa Bay from consistently taking advantage of the chemistry the two displayed earlier in the season.

#tampa

The Tennessee **** ans made the first somewhat surprising pick of the 2026 NFL Draft when they selected former Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate with the number four overall pick. With his first NFL game on the horizon, CBS Sports' Ryan Wilson believes he was worth the fourth overall pick for the **** ans.
Tate was drafted with the expectation that he can become a foundational piece of the offense and a long-term number one target for second-year quarterback Cam Ward. That might be a lot to ask from a rookie, but everything about the situation suggests the **** ans had a plan.
The biggest question surrounding the **** ans' selection was whether Tate's talent will eventually justify taking him fourth overall. Including Tate, only five wide receivers (six if you include Travis Hunter) have been selected in the top five of the NFL Draft since 2015.
Excluding Jacksonville Jaguars WR/CB Travis Hunter, former **** ans WR Corey Davis had the worst rookie season of those top five selections with 375 yards and 0 touchdowns. So, it made sense why **** ans fans, specifically, may have had concerns about the Tate selection.
However, a strong training camp has many anticipating his NFL regular-season debut. Tate doesn't need to immediately become one of the best receivers in the NFL for the pick to be successful, but Tennessee needs to see enough flashes to believe they have found a long-term offensive cornerstone.

#tate #draft

The Kering Foundation raised over $5 million at its fifth annual Caring for Women dinner, supporting four organisations working to end violence against women and children: Activating Change, Fondo Semillas, JBWS and The New York Women's Foundation.
Noam Galai/Getty Images for Kering Foundation
We've already seen the celebrities wearing Gucci, so here is a look at the other guests, with Valentino, Bottega Veneta and Balenciaga dominating a night where black was clearly the unofficial dress code.
Thank goodness for the cut-outs, because they are doing a lot of work here. Dakota Johnson's Valentino gown features a frontless-and-backless construction that could easily have been lost in black, but the flashes of skin allow you to appreciate exactly how the dress has been engineered.
Mike Coppola/Getty Images

#getty #valentino

NEW YORK – Ready or not, here she comes.
Just when you think you know Tory Burch's next move, she subverts expectations and continues her reign as one of the most interesting American designers today.
The designer brought out a cadre of stars for her New York Fashion Week show Thursday, Sept. 10, at the Sunken Garden by Isamu Noguchi in downtown Manhattan. Though far from an underground designer, Burch took her show to subterranean levels before she reached new heights with her collection and her front row, which included a fashionably timely Lauryn Hill, flanked by daughter Sara Marley and niece Kymora Marley, as well as actress Amanda Seyfried, "Saturday Night Live" alum Chloe Fineman and fashion power broker Anna Wintour.
Alex Eala, the young newcomer who dominated at the US Open until her defeat by best friend and fellow young star Iva Jovic, also joined along with emerging talent Ravyn Lenae and established celebrities like Padma Lakshmi and director Janicza Bravo.
Hill, in oversized sunglasses and an olive-green cinched top and tiered skirt with a silk scarf draped delicately over her head, garnered camera flashes from every angle. Perched atop her lap (and on the arms of everyone in the front row) was Burch's newly released Bunny Knot bag, with Hill's in a ****** er yellow color with the dark knot detailing looking like polka dots.

#front

The next major decision facing the Carolina Panthers' front office will be what to do with their starting quarterback Bryce Young.
Going into his fourth season in the NFL, it's not an easy call. Young has shown flashes of elite ability, but he's still producing at a well below-average level too often.
There are three paths ahead for the organization.
If Young makes his big breakthrough this season, they could give him the lucrative long-term extension that would cement him in as their franchise guy. If he bombs, then they could start looking for another starter, beginning with the loaded draft class of 2027. The Panthers could also decide to wait—if Young's performance falls somewhere in the middle, they still have him under contract for another season thanks to his fifth-year option.
As for Young, he continues to say all the right things. When asked about his contract situation going into Week 1, Young replied that it's out of his hands and he's all about football.

#young #bryce #week

The Baltimore Ravens have undergone significant changes entering the 2026 season, but elite talent, depth, and versatility remain central to their pursuit of a championship. Baltimore's veteran core will help Jesse Minter navigate his first season as a head coach. Some of those players, however, are also approaching crossroads because of age, injuries, salary considerations, or increased competition.
With the regular season approaching, here are five Ravens veterans entering pivotal seasons, along with one bonus candidate.
Bateman has repeatedly shown flashes of becoming a dependable playmaker, but injuries and inconsistent opportunities have prevented him from establishing himself as one of the NFL's most productive receivers.
The talent has never been the primary question. Bateman can create separation, stretch the field, and provide Lamar Jackson with a reliable target outside the numbers. What Baltimore needs now is consistent availability and production all season. Zay Flowers is firmly established as Jackson's leading receiver, while rookie Ja'Kobi Lane brings size and considerable upside to the position. Bateman must carve out a defined role within Declan Doyle's offense and capitalize on his opportunities. A productive season would strengthen Bateman's place within Baltimore's long-term plans. Another uneven campaign could force the Ravens to reevaluate the position.
Stanley remains one of the NFL's best left tackles when healthy, but age makes every season more significant.

#Ravens

Pop star Pink is under fire online for resharing an anti-Israel message and then following it up with a series of Instagram posts directed at her detractors.
Macklemore, whose real name is Benjamin Hammond Haggerty, supported British musician Ed Sheeran on stage at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey in a show called Loop Tour on September 4 and 5. Donning a keffiyeh in front of an 80,000-strong audience, the rapper shouted "Free Palestine" and addressed Gaza and the occupied West Bank, saying that they are not being forgotten.
"Every human being walking on this earth deserves exactly the same freedom," he added, as reported by Variety.
The rapper then performed his protest song "Hind's Hall," which featured flashes of Gaza on the stadium screens. Macklemore referenced Hind Rajab, a young Palestinian girl killed in Gaza, named after student demonstrators at Columbia University who renamed a campus building in her honor. The rapper then addressed Jewish concertgoers, saying that criticizing Israel and condemning their actions as genocide is not a condemnation of Jewish people and that his message is a message of peace and dignity for everyone.
American pop diva, whose legal name is Alecia Beth Moore Hart, posted a video with the message "Awful" to her Instagram Story, claiming that Jewish fans who came to see Sheeran's performance are exposed to propaganda against Israel. According to Pink, Macklemore's speech and video presentation amount to a false accusation of genocide, and people who came to the concert are entitled to "apologies and refunds."

#Instagram #macklemore

Florida State spent much of Monday night chasing the game, but after battling back to tie SMU in the fourth quarter, the Seminoles could not find one final stop or scoring drive.
In a game delayed by a power outage at Doak Campbell Stadium and stretched deep into the night, FSU showed more resilience than it did in its season opener. However, the same issues that have plagued the Seminoles through two games, inconsistent quarterback play, offensive line struggles and third-down defensive lapses, resurfaced in a 27-24 loss to SMU.
The Seminoles dropped to 1-1 on the season despite erasing multiple deficits and tying the game at 24 before the Mustangs answered with the decisive touchdown drive.
Here are the grades from Florida State's loss to SMU.
Daniels spent much of the night under constant pressure and rarely looked comfortable in the pocket. While there were flashes of playmaking ability, including a quarterback keeper for a touchdown and several throws into tight coverage, consistency remained an issue.

#seminoles

Startups spend years courting brand-name investors to build credibility before they go public. Rarely does one of those investors also happen to be the company's biggest supplier, and in a roundabout way, one of its own paying customers.
Nscale, a two-year-old British AI cloud computing firm, is negotiating to raise up to $3.5 billion ahead of a planned U.S. stock listing, according to Bloomberg.
Nvidia (NVDA) is expected to supply about $2 billion of that financing, with hedge fund Third Point leading a separate tranche of convertible notes and Goldman Sachs running the process.
The arrangement would make Nscale's chip supplier one of its largest shareholders just weeks before the company asks public investors to back a valuation roughly double its last private round.
Related: Nvidia stock flashes unusual signal for investors

#investors #public #rarely

The NFL is loaded with young players entering the 2026 season with the opportunity to take their games to another level. Some have already shown flashes of becoming stars, while others are stepping into much larger roles for the first time. With the regular season about to begin, here are 13 players that are poised for breakout seasons.
MORE: Previewing all 16 NFC teams & predicting every record in 2026
New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart (6) walks off the field at halftime during a preseason opening game between the New York Giants and Minnesota Vikings on Saturday, Aug. 15, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ.
Dart showed enough as a rookie to make Giants fans believe they finally have their quarterback of the future. With a full season ahead of him, the second-year quarterback has legitimate breakout potential. A new coaching staff and a healthy Malik Nabers could make all the difference.
Jan 10, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Luther Burden III (10) leaves the field following a game against the Green Bay Packers in an NFC Wild Card Round game at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images

#season

Early into their varsity careers, brothers Zayd and Asha Mirza have already shown flashes of their famous older brother.
Ali Mirza graduated from Bedford High School in June as the boys soccer team's all-time goals leader (74). He was the Gatorade New Hampshire Player of the Year last fall after logging 33 goals and 10 ***** ists, helping Bedford reach the NHIAA Division I semifinals.
Asha, a midfielder, made the Bedford varsity team as a freshman. Zayd, a junior striker, spent the past two seasons on the junior varsity team before earning his varsity call-up this fall.
"I just feel like in front of goal, they're all confident and all are good with both feet," said 19th-year Bedford coach Stuart Pepper before practice on Wednesday. "Goal-scoring looks like it comes easy to all of them."
Asha scored his first goal in his first game — Bedford's season-opening 6-1 win over Winnacunnet on Friday. Asha and Zayd both come off the bench for the Bulldogs, who were 2-0 entering their Thursday night home bout against Exeter.

#goal

The USC Trojans got a lot of great news from their second official depth chart release of the season. Many stars will be returning and potentially making their season debut. The Trojans' defense and offense should get a big boost with key players coming back. Many freshmen will still be in position to have another big game against Fresno State.
Here is what we learned about the Trojans' depth chart release prior to Game 2:
Tanook Hines was the first receiver listed on the depth chart, and that bodes well for his availability for Game 2. Tanook Hines already has a great connection with Jayden Maiava, and I expect that to show up vs Fresno State. I would not be surprised if Lincoln Riley and Maiava look to him early and often in this game to ramp him up. The Trojans' offense will have some fireworks with Hines' season debut.
Sophomore Corey Sims showed great flashes of being a big weapon for Jayden Maiava in Game 1. He was amazing all camp and offseason, and in Game 1 everything came to fruition for him. He is now looked at as one of the top receivers for the Trojans. The official depth chart for Week 1 directly reflects that.
Tron Baker was listed as a starter for another week in the category. Meaning he is held in high regard by the staff. Baker was another receiver who shined in Game 1. Baker posted a stat line of 4 catches for 45 yards. He caught the first pass out of the young receivers. He will continue to be heavily involved in the offense in Game 2.

#chart

Pressure mounts on Matt Rhule as 2026 season-opener looms vs. Ohio originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
It is a put-up-or-shut-up year regarding long-term success at Nebraska.
Coach Matt Rhule has shown flashes of being able to win big games. Now, it has to become an everyday expectation rather than an elusive standard to chase.
The schedule sets up favorably for Nebraska, offering a clear path to an undefeated start heading into a massive Oct. 10 home date against defending national champion Indiana.
MORE: Ranking every college football team from 1-138 ahead of 2026 season

#sporting #Nebraska #coach

The Baltimore Ravens have officially added cornerback Lardarius Webb Jr. and veteran offensive lineman Chuma Edoga to their practice squad.
Webb returns after being waived during Baltimore's initial roster cuts. Webb earned the opportunity after showing encouraging flashes during training camp and the preseason. He finished Baltimore's preseason finale against the Washington Commanders with two tackles and a forced fumble, strengthening his case for continued development within the organization. His return also continues a notable family connection. Webb's father, Lardarius Webb Sr., spent his entire nine-year NFL career with Baltimore and helped the Ravens win Super Bowl XLVII.
Edoga gives the Ravens a more experienced option along the offensive line. The 29-year-old has appeared in 62 games and made 25 starts across seven NFL seasons. He has experience at both tackle positions and guard, adding valuable versatility behind Baltimore's starters.
Edoga is also familiar with offensive line coach Dwayne Ledford. The two worked together with the Atlanta Falcons in 2022, which should help Edoga transition into Baltimore's system.
The two additions continue the Ravens' early-season adjustments as the organization strengthens its developmental secondary and offensive line depth.

#offensive #baltimore #preseason

The Dallas Cowboys made one of the more surprising decisions during the NFL's final round of roster cuts, moving on from running backs Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah. The two young players entered the offseason competing for a larger role, but neither survived the battle for a place behind the team's top option.
Blue and Mafah were part of a three-way competition with Malik Davis for the No. 2 running back job. Dallas ultimately chose Davis, leaving the two younger ball carriers without roster spots and creating a notable shakeup in a position group that appeared unsettled throughout the offseason.
Aug 22, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Teammates celebrate with Dallas Cowboys running back Jaydon Blue (34) after he scores a touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons during the first quarter at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Dieb-Imagn Images
Blue's release was particularly surprising because the Cowboys selected him in the fifth round of the 2025 draft. The former Texas standout spent only one season with the organization, and his departure ended a short tenure that began with expectations he could eventually develop into a meaningful contributor.
Mafah also entered the league with draft pedigree, though Dallas invested less in him as a seventh-round selection. His rookie season included limited opportunities, producing 18 rushing yards and a touchdown on five carries while adding two receptions for 11 yards, but those flashes were not enough to secure his return.

#cowboys #davis #surprising

First Pitch (CT): 6:40 PM
TV: Twins.TV
Radio: TIBN/830 WCCO/102.9 The Wolf /Audacy App
Know Yo' Foe: Bless You Boys
The Twins' postseason hopes aren't dead yet, but a disastrous 8-17 August has put them firmly as a long shot. They are only four games out of a playoff spot, but teams like the Guardians, Blue Jays, and Orioles are trending in the right direction while the Twins and Mariners fade out of the picture.
At this point, the Twins need to pivot to 2027 evaluation mode and if a few bonus wins come, all the better. Walker Jenkins and Kaelen Culpepper should be in the lineup nearly every day from here on out, Gabriel Gonzalez should see every possible PA against lefties, and Emmanuel Rodriguez and Alan Roden likely need to start taking playing time away from Trevor Larnach and Josh Bell when rosters expand tomorrow.
Part of the issue recent Twins teams have run into is simply not knowing whether certain young players are truly ready to take on a bigger role, and they can't afford that heading into 2027 on a team in need of upgrades in both the lineup and pitching staff.
Speaking of pitching, after 2027, Joe Ryan, Pablo Lopez, Dean Kremer, and Bailey Ober are all free agents. Connor Prielipp and Zebby Matthews have shown flashes of brilliance this season, while Mick Abel and Kendry Rojas will be back from injury with nothing left to prove in AAA, to say nothing of pitching prospects like Riley Quick, Ryan Gallagher, and Adrian Bohorquez who will likely be ready at different points next season. Jeremy Zoll and Co. will need to sort through who of that group is worth keeping, who should be traded, who could thrive in the bullpen, and who (looking at you, Ober) maybe shouldn't be tendered a contract at all.

#twins #ober

Today was deadline day for all 32 NFL teams to get their rosters under the 53-man limit. This is a bittersweet day, as players get called into coaches' offices to hear the best news of their entire lives, or to be told they are out of a job. For the Minnesota Vikings, they are officially at the limit, and we are going to look at the three most surprising roster cuts they made.
First, offensive lineman Walter Rouse was believed to be a lock for the 53-man roster, but in a move that surprised many, he was cut and then traded to the New England Patriots for a late-round pick. Rouse provided the depth this offensive line needed and will not serve as a backup in the AFC East. Speaking of offensive linemen,
Rookie offensive tackle Tristan Leigh played a decent amount of snaps this preseason, totaling over 100 reps at both left and right tackle, showing flashes of main roster ability. Leigh could become a waiver claim for a team in need of some young depth.
Lastly, with the youth this defensive line has right now, it came as a surprise to see Isaiahh Loudermilk get cut. Loudermilk would have brought that veteran presence to that group and could have eaten up some snaps as a rotational piece for this defense. Instead, the youth movement stays on track in Minnesota.
This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: 3 Most surprising cuts for the Vikings

#cuts

Keke Palmer typically stays out of trouble, but her latest Instagram post has drawn mixed reactions online. While celebrating her birthday, the "True Jackson, VP" actress shared a carousel of photos, including one of her posing with Diddy's sons, King and Justin Combs. In the caption, Palmer shared a heartwarming message, thanking them, along with others, for being there during some of her most precious milestones. Her post prompted some social media users to share their thoughts about her connection to the Combs family, particularly as Diddy remains behind bars following his 2025 conviction.
Palmer celebrated her 33rd birthday on August 26, giving fans a glimpse into her special day with a 20-slide photo dump on Instagram. The carousel opens with a photo of the actress posing alongside Justin and King Combs, with Palmer wrapping her arms tightly around both brothers as she flashes a wide smile at the camera.
"I've known most of these people 4EVER. They still show up for me! So happy spending my birthday with people that believe we deserve to share in happiness with one another," she said in the caption.
"Life is too short not to be in community, I don't need a reason to celebrate with my folks but a birthday will always remind you to show grace and gratitude for where you come from and where you've been, most importantly who you are today. Thankful to God! Another year," she finished.
Palmer's photo caught the attention of her followers, with several taking to the comments to weigh in on her apparent connection to the Combs family.

#post

With the summer transfer window set to close within the next two days, some significant news for ****** nal has emerged on Sunday as the exits of Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, and Fabio Vieira have all been reported. Jesus will be joining Barcelona, while Martinelli is set to become ****** nal's record transfer with a move to Saudi side Al Hilal. Vieira will return to Hamburg on a permanent move after a successful loan spell last season.
The Fabio Vieira move is one that has been in the making for the last few seasons. He came into the ****** nal side from Porto in the 2022 summer window as an under-the-radar move with a high ceiling. While he displayed his technical quality at times, he just never seemed to adapt to the more physical nature of the Premier League, and he was soon in the window shop for the Gunners. A loan back to Porto in 24/25 was followed by his spell with Hamburg in 25/26 where he shone for the Bundesliga side.
The one drawback of the Hamburg loan was that any fee for a permanent move was never going to majorly move the needle. Considering their record fee for an incoming player was €14m for Filip Kostic, the expectation was that they would not come close to meeting ****** nal's original valuation of €20m. After negotiations this week, the Gunners brought their asking price down and reached an agreement of €9m for the midfielder.
Gabriel Jesus' also saw his role in the side lessen over the past two seasons due in large part to injuries. His addition in the summer of 2022 after joining from Manchester City was a landmark one in the Mikel Arteta era. His arrival took ****** nal from a being simply a competitive side to one that consistent challenged for the ****** le. The first 6 months of his first season were sublime as he immediately elevated the attack with his exceptional ability to receive the ball in tight ****** es and link up with the front line.
Unfortunately, he suffered a knee injury in the 2022 World Cup that began a series of ongoing issues he never seemed to overcome. The cycle that followed was as predictable as it was frustrating. After recovering from an injury, he would show flashes of his brilliance before encountering another setback. The signing of Viktor Gyökeres last summer was a major indicator that the club was preparing for him to take a more diminished role in the attack, and a move seemed inevitable.

#summer

Sometimes the most memorable part of an outfit is hidden underneath. Designers have increasingly used contrasting linings to introduce unexpected flashes of color, transforming capes, coats, gowns and dramatic trains whenever they move. From Cate Blanchett to Anne Hathaway, several stars have demonstrated how a carefully chosen interior shade can turn an elegant red carpet look into something far more surprising.
Cate Blanchett delivered a memorable example at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival premiere of The Apprentice. Her custom Haider Ackermann for Jean Paul Gaultier strapless creation appeared predominantly black from the front, but revealed contrasting shades from other angles. A blush pink back and emerald green lining emerged as Blanchett lifted the train, giving the sophisticated design an unexpected injection of color.
Brie Larson used the same idea for superhero glamour at the London premiere of Captain Marvel. Her vivid blue Valentino gown featured an off the shoulder neckline, sculpted bodice and flowing cape. Hidden inside that cape was a shimmering gold lining, creating a dramatic metallic flash whenever the fabric moved. Nicole Kidman took a bolder approach at the New York premiere of Expats, where her sleek black Versace gown revealed a vivid lime green interior through its dramatic thigh high slit.
Helen Mirren offered a softer interpretation at the 2024 Golden Globes. Wearing Dolce & Gabbana, she paired an elegant lavender gown with a matching coat featuring voluminous sleeves. The coat's pink interior became visible as it opened, introducing another pastel shade while maintaining the sophistication of the overall look. Instead of competing with the lavender exterior, the contrasting lining gave the ensemble additional depth.
Anne Hathaway also embraced the technique with a playful maternity look at the Los Angeles premiere of The Last Thing He Wanted. Her custom Prabal Gurung ensemble centered on a blue satin high low top with a striking red interior. Paired with relaxed jeans and pointed red shoes, the contrasting colors framed her silhouette while bringing an unconventional energy to maternity dressing.

#contrasting #blanchett #look #cate

Ben Roethlisberger's arm ligaments turned al dente sometime around 2019. The Pittsburgh Steelers' defense behind him remained strong. That juxtaposition created the broken path that leads us to 2026. That's the year where the Steelers, in a league where most teams will have only two quarterbacks on their active roster, plan to keep four passers at the 53-man cutdown day.
That's what first-year head coach Mike McCarthy told ESPN's Brooke Pryor to expect when rosters as finalized August 30 at 6 p.m. ET. His QB1 will be a soon-to-be 43-year-old Aaron Rodgers, heavily diminished from his MVP peak. His veteran backup will be Mason Rudolph, exiled to Nashville in 2024 to bring his special brand of underwhelming football to the Tennessee ***** ans before reuniting with the team last year. Behind them, for now, is the duo of mid-round draft picks Pittsburgh picked up as lottery tickets in hopes they may have dug a diamond from a coal mine: Will Howard (sixth round, 2026) and Drew Allar (third round, 2026).
The need for four quarterbacks can be traced back to the end of the Roethlisberger era. This team was too competent to fall to a top 10 draft pick as the two-time Super Bowl champion's arm weakened and his average target distance dropped to league lows. Stopgap solutions followed; Mitchell Trubisky. Kenny Pickett. Rudolph. Russell Wilson. Justin Fields. Now, it's Rodgers.
When Pickett, the first quarterback selected in one of the worst quarterback drafts of all time, failed, the Steelers bought in to retread passers just good enough to keep the team at slightly above average. Playoff appearances followed. Playoff wins did not. Between weak draft position and the franchise's general distaste for big free agent splashes -- missing out on Kirk Cousins (good!) and Sam Darnold (not as good!) -- Pittsburgh went from renting to owning its place in contender's limbo.
2026 has marked the franchise's desire to stay there. Mike Tomlin, architect of zero losing seasons in 19 years at the helm, parted ways with the team. Rather than start fresh with a rising young head coach, the team hired Mike McCarthy, a man with a 126-80-2 record in the regular season since 2011 and a 6-9 playoff record. It brought back Rodgers, who can no longer use his legs to extend plays and has been forced into a diet of short, quick passes to avoid pressure even as his otherworldly arm talent remains in flashes of "remember when?" And, importantly, rather than casting his lot with Howard and Allar in case of injury and letting the chips fall where they may, McCarthy is keeping Rudolph as QB2.

#team #year #mike #rodgers

Kameron Johnson gave the Tampa Bay Buccaneers another encouraging look at what he can bring to the return game Saturday night, showing the type of burst and explosiveness that can make him a difference-maker throughout the 2026 season. Johnson had one kickoff return against the Kansas City Chiefs, taking it 20 yards to the Kansas City 31-yard line and giving Tampa Bay solid starting field position. He also added two punt returns for 24 yards.
The numbers weren't overwhelming, but the flashes were there. Johnson looked decisive with the football in his hands and showed the ability to get north quickly rather than spending too much time searching for an opening. In 2025, he averaged 25.4 yards on 27 kickoff returns and 11.2 yards on 26 punt returns. He also produced Tampa Bay's two longest kick returns of the season, going for 37 and 44 yards, while earning NFC Special Teams Player of the Week honors.
His work against Kansas City was also encouraging because of his offensive contributions. Johnson caught four passes for 56 yards, including a 22-yard reception, while showing that his ability with the ball isn't limited to special teams. He was involved early, catching an 11-yard pass from Jake Browning before later hauling in a 22-yard completion in the third quarter. That combination could make Johnson particularly useful for Tampa Bay. His primary job is returning kicks and punts, but if he continues showing that kind of ability as a receiver, the Buccaneers have another way to get him involved without asking him to become a major part of the offense. If Johnson can consistently turn returns into positive field position while making occasional plays on offense, his value to the Buccaneers could extend well beyond what the traditional returner role offers.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Kameron Johnson shows flashes of something special at kick returner

#johnson #yards #yard

The Pittsburgh Steelers face a difficult decision with Will Howard as they prepare to finalize their quarterback room for the 2026 season.
The sixth-round pick has shown flashes during the preseason, but his inconsistent performances have complicated his chances of becoming Aaron Rodgers' backup. Former Steelers quarterback Charlie Batch believes Pittsburgh could lose Howard if it tries to place him on the practice squad.
Oct 26, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Will Howard warms up for a game against the Green Bay Packers at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images
Howard entered training camp competing with Mason Rudolph and Drew Allar for a place behind Rodgers. Rudolph brings valuable NFL experience, while Allar has also impressed enough to strengthen his roster.
Howard, meanwhile, struggled against the New York Jets. He threw two interceptions during Pittsburgh's 17-0 preseason loss, failing to create the separation he needed in the backup competition. That performance did not help his immediate case. However, Batch believes the Steelers must consider more than Howard's latest outing when deciding his future. NFL news platform Steelers Depot reports Charlie Batch's comments on the situation.

#steelers #pittsburgh #charlie #allar

The Baltimore Ravens have spent much of training camp evaluating young players competing for larger roles. One who is generating a lot more attention in recent weeks is defensive lineman Aeneas Peebles. The flashes have been difficult to miss. Whether it's disrupting plays in practice, creating pressure in preseason games, or earning praise from his coaches, Peebles has steadily worked his way into the conversation as one of Baltimore's more intriguing depth pieces along the defensive front.
Head coach Jesse Minter recently pointed to the playmaking instincts that keep showing up on tape. Defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver echoed that, offering an even more revealing ****** sment. During a recent conversation with reporters, Weaver was asked about Peebles' development and what he has seen from the young defensive lineman. His answer included a comparison that immediately stood out. It shouldn't be glossed over or taken lightly.
"'Fub' [Aeneas Peebles] to me is all about consistency, and the comparison I have made to him is I coached Kyle Williams in Buffalo."
Williams was one of the NFL's most respected interior defenders during his career. He earned six Pro Bowl selections while becoming a cornerstone of the Buffalo Bills' defense. Weaver isn't claiming Peebles has reached that level yet. What he is saying is that he sees similarities in the traits that made Williams successful. The most interesting part of Weaver's answer wasn't the comparison itself. It was his explanation of what separates flashes from consistent production.
According to the Ravens' defensive coordinator, Williams possessed a complete understanding of his strengths and how to maximize them. Peebles, meanwhile, is still working through that process.

#peebles

Rihanna put her signature spin on off-duty dressing while stepping out in New York City. The singer was photographed checking out of her hotel before heading to Paris. She turned the sidewalk into her personal runway, wearing a denim micro miniskirt paired with a Miu Miu tracksuit jacket.
For the outing, Rihanna paired a sporty pink Miu Miu tracksuit jacket with an ultra-short dark-wash denim miniskirt. The micro silhouette sat high on her thighs, with its raw, frayed hem revealing flashes of a contrasting white layer underneath. The skirt featured an asymmetrical detail at the front, adding to its deconstructed feel. Rihanna wore it low on the hips, adding a relaxed look to its barely-there length.
On top, her Miu Miu jacket brought a distinctly retro sportswear element to the ensemble. The bubblegum pink zip-up featured white stripes running down the sleeves. Furthermore, it had ribbed cuffs, a ribbed hem, and a high collar that Rihanna wore partially popped. A small Miu Miu logo in white appeared on the chest.
She elevated the casual pairing with a set of strappy white heels, bringing a glamorous finish to the sporty denim combination. Rihanna also carried a roomy black quilted Dior handbag that was perfect for traveling. Additionally, the star wore a silver bracelet on one wrist.
Her accessories continued with large hoop earrings, a wide gold choker, and oversized red-tinted aviator sunglasses. She wore her dark hair in voluminous curls, while a bright red manicure provided another pop of color against the pink jacket. The singer opted for a bronzed look, featuring soft pink cheeks and a super-glossy lip.

#pink #denim #paired