1 hr. ago
AUSTIN - Mississippi State will show a new face at quarterback when the Bulldogs come to town for a game that Steve Sarkisian and Texas hope replicates last season when the Longhorns won seven of their last eight games.
The Bulldogs started the season at 4-0 and beat teams like Missouri and Minnesota with flashy new quarterback Kamario Taylor before losing three straight, but the dynamic playmaker was lost for the season when he underwent surgery this week for an injured toe.
So the 11th-ranked Longhorns (5-2, 2-2 in SEC) will see either athletic redshirt freshman Billy Puckett or Appalachian State transfer A.J. Swan, who had 12 starts in two years at Vanderbilt and six more at App State, when Mississippi State (4-3, 2-3 SEC) and Texas kick off at 6:30 Saturday night.
BOHLS: Nine things and one crazy prediction
Puckett has completed 66% of his passes with one touchdown and two picks and can make full use of a strong running game centered around Fluff Bothwell, who is much more physical than his name suggests and has four 100-yard games this season.
#mississippi #longhorns
The Bulldogs started the season at 4-0 and beat teams like Missouri and Minnesota with flashy new quarterback Kamario Taylor before losing three straight, but the dynamic playmaker was lost for the season when he underwent surgery this week for an injured toe.
So the 11th-ranked Longhorns (5-2, 2-2 in SEC) will see either athletic redshirt freshman Billy Puckett or Appalachian State transfer A.J. Swan, who had 12 starts in two years at Vanderbilt and six more at App State, when Mississippi State (4-3, 2-3 SEC) and Texas kick off at 6:30 Saturday night.
BOHLS: Nine things and one crazy prediction
Puckett has completed 66% of his passes with one touchdown and two picks and can make full use of a strong running game centered around Fluff Bothwell, who is much more physical than his name suggests and has four 100-yard games this season.
#mississippi #longhorns
1 hr. ago
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
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
1 hr. 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
1 hr. ago
The college football action continues this Saturday on NBC and Peacock with two thrilling matchups. It all starts at 3:30 PM ET, with No. 20 Northwestern vs Oregon. Then, at 7:30 PM, the No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes take on the USC Trojans in Los Angeles. See below to find out how to watch both games, as well as additional information on how to watch college football on Peacock.
RELATED: 2026 College Football Rankings Top 25 Week 9 - Expert picks, ******* ysis, AP projections including BYU, Utah
Sign up for Peacock here!
Inside the AP Poll: Notre Dame-BYU, Alabama-Kentucky's head-to-head results should matter
It's always a bad look when teams are sitting side-by-side in the official poll in the opposite order of a game result.
#watch #side #northwestern
RELATED: 2026 College Football Rankings Top 25 Week 9 - Expert picks, ******* ysis, AP projections including BYU, Utah
Sign up for Peacock here!
Inside the AP Poll: Notre Dame-BYU, Alabama-Kentucky's head-to-head results should matter
It's always a bad look when teams are sitting side-by-side in the official poll in the opposite order of a game result.
#watch #side #northwestern
1 hr. ago
The college football action continues this Saturday on NBC and Peacock with two thrilling matchups. First at 3:30 PM ET, it's No. 20 Northwestern vs Oregon. Later at 7:30 PM, the No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes take on the USC Trojans in Los Angeles. See below to find out how to watch both games, as well as additional information on how to watch college football on Peacock.
RELATED: 2026 College Football Rankings Top 25 Week 9 - Expert picks, ******* ysis, AP projections including BYU, Utah
Sign up for Peacock here!
Inside the AP Poll: Notre Dame-BYU, Alabama-Kentucky's head-to-head results should matter
It's always a bad look when teams are sitting side-by-side in the official poll in the opposite order of a game result.
#college #poll #first #northwestern
RELATED: 2026 College Football Rankings Top 25 Week 9 - Expert picks, ******* ysis, AP projections including BYU, Utah
Sign up for Peacock here!
Inside the AP Poll: Notre Dame-BYU, Alabama-Kentucky's head-to-head results should matter
It's always a bad look when teams are sitting side-by-side in the official poll in the opposite order of a game result.
#college #poll #first #northwestern
3 hours 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
7 hours ago
good morning everyone and welcome to your Spooky Track of the Day!
Halloween is tomorrow, and every year the Hoddle of Coffee likes to celebrate with a spooky TOTD. There are lots of obvious picks out there but each year I like to give you all a diferent flavour like Vanilla Fudge's Season of the Witch, Queen's Ogre Battle and Alice Cooper's Killer.
Today we're diving into a punk rock Halloween. There are great ones to choose from. Lots from The Misfits, including Halloween, but we've featured them a handful of times in non-Halloween hoddles because they're just a really cool band.
Here are some other cool ones to add to your playlist and get people saying "What the heck?" And then "Heck yeah!"
Misfits – Astro Zombies (plus lots of others)
#heck #cool #track
Halloween is tomorrow, and every year the Hoddle of Coffee likes to celebrate with a spooky TOTD. There are lots of obvious picks out there but each year I like to give you all a diferent flavour like Vanilla Fudge's Season of the Witch, Queen's Ogre Battle and Alice Cooper's Killer.
Today we're diving into a punk rock Halloween. There are great ones to choose from. Lots from The Misfits, including Halloween, but we've featured them a handful of times in non-Halloween hoddles because they're just a really cool band.
Here are some other cool ones to add to your playlist and get people saying "What the heck?" And then "Heck yeah!"
Misfits – Astro Zombies (plus lots of others)
#heck #cool #track
8 hours 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
9 hours 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
13 hours ago
NBA rumors: 2 Clippers named as Thunder trade targets in addition to Herb Jones, Ty Jerome appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
After the Oklahoma City Thunder's first loss of the season in a 120-96 blowout to the Dallas Mavericks, will GM Sam Presti make a move for either New Orleans Pelicans' Herb Jones or Memphis Grizzlies' Ty Jerome sooner rather than later? The injuries continue to stack up for the Thunder, as Alex Caruso and Chet Holmgren were both out in addition to Jalen Williams and Cason Wallace's setbacks ahead of Wednesday's game against the Mavericks.
For a team like the LA Clippers, who lost first-round picks for the next five seasons, Derrick Jones Jr. and Kris Dunn have also been mentioned as potential trade targets for Presti, who has more future firsts than any other GM in the NBA. While the Thunder are in no rush to make a trade, Presti will most likely do so at some point before this year's deadline, as ClutchPoints' Brett Siegel noted, per Clutch Scoops.
"The Thunder are going to make at least one trade. That's a given," Siegel said. "We know that Sam Presti is always very adventagous on the trade market. We didn't think that they were going to make a trade last season. And then, Jared McCain fell in their lap because they leveraged some draft picks — first-round and second-round picks — that we're going to be of use to them. We could see something similar happen this year, where it's not going to be a big splashy name; a $20-plus million guy.
Watch sports LIVE with fuboTV (free trial)
#jones #clutchpoints #make
After the Oklahoma City Thunder's first loss of the season in a 120-96 blowout to the Dallas Mavericks, will GM Sam Presti make a move for either New Orleans Pelicans' Herb Jones or Memphis Grizzlies' Ty Jerome sooner rather than later? The injuries continue to stack up for the Thunder, as Alex Caruso and Chet Holmgren were both out in addition to Jalen Williams and Cason Wallace's setbacks ahead of Wednesday's game against the Mavericks.
For a team like the LA Clippers, who lost first-round picks for the next five seasons, Derrick Jones Jr. and Kris Dunn have also been mentioned as potential trade targets for Presti, who has more future firsts than any other GM in the NBA. While the Thunder are in no rush to make a trade, Presti will most likely do so at some point before this year's deadline, as ClutchPoints' Brett Siegel noted, per Clutch Scoops.
"The Thunder are going to make at least one trade. That's a given," Siegel said. "We know that Sam Presti is always very adventagous on the trade market. We didn't think that they were going to make a trade last season. And then, Jared McCain fell in their lap because they leveraged some draft picks — first-round and second-round picks — that we're going to be of use to them. We could see something similar happen this year, where it's not going to be a big splashy name; a $20-plus million guy.
Watch sports LIVE with fuboTV (free trial)
#jones #clutchpoints #make
14 hours ago
Auburn is 4-3, but it has already been a great first season under Alex Golesh. There's hope for the future, considering the offense hasn't even begun to get rolling as expected. With a stunning win over Georgia, though, the fan base got a glimpse of what might be coming next year.
Now the Tigers can do some real damage. Hand Ole Miss its third loss, and all of a sudden the SEC will have a hard time putting more than a few teams in the College Football Playoff.
The Rebels have a brutal finishing kick, but after a tough 27-24 loss at Texas, dealing with Auburn is dangerous enough.
Ole Miss doesn't get any chance to rest with Georgia up next and a trip to Oklahoma to follow.
Auburn gets a bit of a break with Arkansas coming to The Plains next, followed by a date against the Kamario Taylor-less Mississippi State team. And then it's Samford to tune up for the showdown against Alabama.
Ole Miss won the last two in the surprisingly short series – the two have only played 48 times. Auburn leads 35-13.
Date: Saturday, October 31, 2026
Game Time: 12:45 PM ET
TV: SEC Network
Location: Vaught-Hemingway Stadium, Oxford, MS
– Week 9 Schedule, Game Previews
– CFN Top 25 | Bowl Projections
– Predicting the First CFP Top 25
– CFN Week 9 Expert Picks
#auburn #game #week #time
Now the Tigers can do some real damage. Hand Ole Miss its third loss, and all of a sudden the SEC will have a hard time putting more than a few teams in the College Football Playoff.
The Rebels have a brutal finishing kick, but after a tough 27-24 loss at Texas, dealing with Auburn is dangerous enough.
Ole Miss doesn't get any chance to rest with Georgia up next and a trip to Oklahoma to follow.
Auburn gets a bit of a break with Arkansas coming to The Plains next, followed by a date against the Kamario Taylor-less Mississippi State team. And then it's Samford to tune up for the showdown against Alabama.
Ole Miss won the last two in the surprisingly short series – the two have only played 48 times. Auburn leads 35-13.
Date: Saturday, October 31, 2026
Game Time: 12:45 PM ET
TV: SEC Network
Location: Vaught-Hemingway Stadium, Oxford, MS
– Week 9 Schedule, Game Previews
– CFN Top 25 | Bowl Projections
– Predicting the First CFP Top 25
– CFN Week 9 Expert Picks
#auburn #game #week #time
11 days ago
The NBA is back with the start of the 2026-27 season.
The Detroit Pistons start the season Tuesday at 3 p.m. hosting the Boston Celtics in a matchup of last season's Eastern Conference 1-seed and 2-seed.
So, it's time for our annual Pistons predictions and NBA Finals picks.
We tasked our NBA experts with answering burning Pistons questions, including picking a breakout player, predicting the trade deadline, final record and mapping out the fascinating East standings and NBA playoffs.
Make "The Pistons Pulse" your go-to Pistons podcast, listen available anywhere you get podcasts (Apple, Spotify) or watch live on YouTube.
#celtics #eastern
The Detroit Pistons start the season Tuesday at 3 p.m. hosting the Boston Celtics in a matchup of last season's Eastern Conference 1-seed and 2-seed.
So, it's time for our annual Pistons predictions and NBA Finals picks.
We tasked our NBA experts with answering burning Pistons questions, including picking a breakout player, predicting the trade deadline, final record and mapping out the fascinating East standings and NBA playoffs.
Make "The Pistons Pulse" your go-to Pistons podcast, listen available anywhere you get podcasts (Apple, Spotify) or watch live on YouTube.
#celtics #eastern
11 days ago
Heat player who will shock NBA world with breakout 2026-27 season appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
It's not quite championship-or-bust yet for the Miami Heat, but they're as close to that status as they can get. After all, the expectations for the Heat are through the roof after they brought in two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo via a blockbuster trade. Antetokounmpo has had so much appreciation for the Heat's vaunted culture that landing in Miami was one of the main priorities for him this offseason — with his former team, the Milwaukee Bucks, doing him a service.
But at the end of the day, the Heat paid a heavy price to bring Antetokounmpo in. They parted ways with Tyler Herro, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Kel'el Ware, and Kasparas Jakucionis to go along with three first-round picks (2026, 2031, and 2033), a first-round pick swap (2030), and a second-round pick (2033).
The Heat did a good enough job of replacing the depth they lost, as they added veterans Tim Hardaway Jr. and Klay Thompson to serve as floor-spacers in a Giannis-centric offense. Getting Bobby Portis back in the Giannis trade was also an underrated part of that transaction. Moreover, they came to terms with Andrew Wiggins on a contract extension, securing the services of one of their most important role players through at least the 2027-28 campaign.
Watch sports LIVE with fuboTV (free trial)
#giannis
It's not quite championship-or-bust yet for the Miami Heat, but they're as close to that status as they can get. After all, the expectations for the Heat are through the roof after they brought in two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo via a blockbuster trade. Antetokounmpo has had so much appreciation for the Heat's vaunted culture that landing in Miami was one of the main priorities for him this offseason — with his former team, the Milwaukee Bucks, doing him a service.
But at the end of the day, the Heat paid a heavy price to bring Antetokounmpo in. They parted ways with Tyler Herro, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Kel'el Ware, and Kasparas Jakucionis to go along with three first-round picks (2026, 2031, and 2033), a first-round pick swap (2030), and a second-round pick (2033).
The Heat did a good enough job of replacing the depth they lost, as they added veterans Tim Hardaway Jr. and Klay Thompson to serve as floor-spacers in a Giannis-centric offense. Getting Bobby Portis back in the Giannis trade was also an underrated part of that transaction. Moreover, they came to terms with Andrew Wiggins on a contract extension, securing the services of one of their most important role players through at least the 2027-28 campaign.
Watch sports LIVE with fuboTV (free trial)
#giannis
11 days ago
The Investec Champions Cup campaign is underway with an intriguing opening round of action whetting the appetite for the season ahead.
This one-off weekend of fixtures serves only as an hors d'ouevres with the competition not resuming until after the Nations Championship in November, and the eight English clubs will have plenty to do when it picks up again.
While Gloucester secured an excellent draw against defending champions Bordeaux-Begles, only Northampton were successful in their opening outing of the Prem contingent as the United Rugby Championship and Top 14 sides showed their strength.
Here are five things we learned:
So much for the Prem being a league on the up with a clutch of sides ready to challenge for the first time in a while. Even in victory, Northampton were not at their best against Cardiff in the wet, with the English performance of the round undoubtedly that of Gloucester at a bouncing Kingsholm on Friday evening.
#prem #round #sides
This one-off weekend of fixtures serves only as an hors d'ouevres with the competition not resuming until after the Nations Championship in November, and the eight English clubs will have plenty to do when it picks up again.
While Gloucester secured an excellent draw against defending champions Bordeaux-Begles, only Northampton were successful in their opening outing of the Prem contingent as the United Rugby Championship and Top 14 sides showed their strength.
Here are five things we learned:
So much for the Prem being a league on the up with a clutch of sides ready to challenge for the first time in a while. Even in victory, Northampton were not at their best against Cardiff in the wet, with the English performance of the round undoubtedly that of Gloucester at a bouncing Kingsholm on Friday evening.
#prem #round #sides
11 days ago
Carolina Panthers QB Bryce Young completed 20 of 39 passes for 281 yards with two touchdowns in a Week 6 win over the Philadelphia Eagles. He also ran three times for six yards.
SOURCE: USA TODAY
Why It Matters: So far in 2026, Young certainly doesn't look like the quarterback who got benched last season. He has surpassed 280 yards passing in all five of his outings this season (he entered the season with four such games in his career). Young now has 11 touchdown passes against two picks this season and is a strong QB2 at this point, even against an improving Tampa Bay defense in Week 7.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Bryce Young continues strong play with big passing day in Week 6
#season #bryce #carolina
SOURCE: USA TODAY
Why It Matters: So far in 2026, Young certainly doesn't look like the quarterback who got benched last season. He has surpassed 280 yards passing in all five of his outings this season (he entered the season with four such games in his career). Young now has 11 touchdown passes against two picks this season and is a strong QB2 at this point, even against an improving Tampa Bay defense in Week 7.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Bryce Young continues strong play with big passing day in Week 6
#season #bryce #carolina
11 days ago
New England Patriots QB Drake Maye completed 18 of 32 passes for 235 yards with three touchdowns in a Week 6 win over the New York Jets. He added 24 yards on four rushing attempts.
SOURCE: USA TODAY
Why It Matters: Maye now has 10 touchdown passes against one interception with 878 yards in the last three games. He had one TD pass and six picks in the first three games. It's safe to say that Maye has regained his status as a QB1 and is looking like the quarterback who led the Patriots to the Super Bowl last season. He needs to be locked into lineups in Week 7, even on a short week with a visit to Chicago coming on Thursday.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Drake Maye throws for another three scores in Week 6
#three #drake #last
SOURCE: USA TODAY
Why It Matters: Maye now has 10 touchdown passes against one interception with 878 yards in the last three games. He had one TD pass and six picks in the first three games. It's safe to say that Maye has regained his status as a QB1 and is looking like the quarterback who led the Patriots to the Super Bowl last season. He needs to be locked into lineups in Week 7, even on a short week with a visit to Chicago coming on Thursday.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Drake Maye throws for another three scores in Week 6
#three #drake #last
11 days ago
Packers rookie Brandon Cisse records first NFL pick after embarrassing CeeDee Lamb slip appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Green Bay Packers just keep getting those picks. The Packers already picked off Dak Prescott once on Sunday Night Football, and they added to their tally near the end of the first half.
Rookie cornerback Brandon Cisse got the first interception of his career, with the help of an embarrassing slip from Cowboys star CeeDee Lamb.
Lamb slipped as he was cutting inside, which allowed a clear path for Cisse to catch Prescott's pass.
Unlike their first interception, which only resulted in a field goal, the Packers fully took advantage of the turnover as they scored a touchdown with under a minute left to take a 17-0 lead at halftime. They took just 87 seconds to execute a nine-play, 77-yard drive, which resulted in a Jordan Love one-yard touchdown run.
#first #cisse #rookie #slip
The Green Bay Packers just keep getting those picks. The Packers already picked off Dak Prescott once on Sunday Night Football, and they added to their tally near the end of the first half.
Rookie cornerback Brandon Cisse got the first interception of his career, with the help of an embarrassing slip from Cowboys star CeeDee Lamb.
Lamb slipped as he was cutting inside, which allowed a clear path for Cisse to catch Prescott's pass.
Unlike their first interception, which only resulted in a field goal, the Packers fully took advantage of the turnover as they scored a touchdown with under a minute left to take a 17-0 lead at halftime. They took just 87 seconds to execute a nine-play, 77-yard drive, which resulted in a Jordan Love one-yard touchdown run.
#first #cisse #rookie #slip
11 days ago
The OKC Thunder agreed to a five-year, $139 million rookie-scale contract extension with Cason Wallace on Sunday. ESPN's Shams Charania first reported the news.
Wallace averaged career highs of 8.6 points and 2.6 **** ists last season on 43.2% shooting from the field (35.1% from deep). He also recorded a league-leading 150 steals and earned an All-Defensive second team selection.
More: Lu Dort reflects on OKC Thunder legacy as 'new chapter' with Atlanta Hawks begins
OKC had until Monday to sign Wallace to a new deal and avoid him hitting restricted free agency next summer. It's a sign of confidence in the 22-year-old guard, who'll serve as the Thunder's top point-of-attack defender now that Lu Dort is gone.
It's also a sign of commitment from OKC's ownership group after the team made cost-cutting moves this summer. The Thunder traded Dort, Aaron Wiggins and Isaiah Joe in three separate deals for a combined seven second-round picks and didn't get any players in return. That helped it position itself $6.9 million underneath the second apron with one standard roster spot still open.
#sign #cason
Wallace averaged career highs of 8.6 points and 2.6 **** ists last season on 43.2% shooting from the field (35.1% from deep). He also recorded a league-leading 150 steals and earned an All-Defensive second team selection.
More: Lu Dort reflects on OKC Thunder legacy as 'new chapter' with Atlanta Hawks begins
OKC had until Monday to sign Wallace to a new deal and avoid him hitting restricted free agency next summer. It's a sign of confidence in the 22-year-old guard, who'll serve as the Thunder's top point-of-attack defender now that Lu Dort is gone.
It's also a sign of commitment from OKC's ownership group after the team made cost-cutting moves this summer. The Thunder traded Dort, Aaron Wiggins and Isaiah Joe in three separate deals for a combined seven second-round picks and didn't get any players in return. That helped it position itself $6.9 million underneath the second apron with one standard roster spot still open.
#sign #cason
11 days ago
Well, that was quicker than expected. The Oklahoma City Thunder have reportedly signed Cason Wallace to a five-year, $139 million contract extension, per ESPN's Shams Charania.
Eligible for a contract extension since the NBA offseason started, the Thunder get something done with less than a day to go. The contract extension deadline for 2023 first-round picks is on Monday, Oct. 19, at 5 p.m. CT. Wallace had a breakout season last year as a first-time All-Defensive member. He's entering the final year of his rookie-scale deal.
Now, Wallace is under contract through the 2031-32 season. At around $27.8 million per year — which is a happy medium from the reported figures of around $25-to-$33 million per year. This is a great move by the Thunder. You get this potential distraction erased.
Now, the Thunder can go into Opening Night with clear heads. They've rolled out the blue-and-orange carpet for Wallace. He's expected to be a full-time starter and take a leap on offense with additional opportunities.
This article originally appeared on OKC Thunder Wire: Report: OKC Thunder sign Cason Wallace to 5-year, $139 million contract extension
#thunder
Eligible for a contract extension since the NBA offseason started, the Thunder get something done with less than a day to go. The contract extension deadline for 2023 first-round picks is on Monday, Oct. 19, at 5 p.m. CT. Wallace had a breakout season last year as a first-time All-Defensive member. He's entering the final year of his rookie-scale deal.
Now, Wallace is under contract through the 2031-32 season. At around $27.8 million per year — which is a happy medium from the reported figures of around $25-to-$33 million per year. This is a great move by the Thunder. You get this potential distraction erased.
Now, the Thunder can go into Opening Night with clear heads. They've rolled out the blue-and-orange carpet for Wallace. He's expected to be a full-time starter and take a leap on offense with additional opportunities.
This article originally appeared on OKC Thunder Wire: Report: OKC Thunder sign Cason Wallace to 5-year, $139 million contract extension
#thunder
11 days ago
The OKC Thunder agreed to a five-year, $139 million rookie-scale contract extension with Cason Wallace on Sunday. ESPN's Shams Charania first reported the news.
Wallace averaged career highs of 8.6 points and 2.6 **** ists last season on 43.2% shooting from the field (35.1% from deep). He also recorded a league-leading 150 steals and earned an All-Defensive second team selection.
More: Lu Dort reflects on OKC Thunder legacy as 'new chapter' with Atlanta Hawks begins
OKC had until Monday to sign Wallace to a new deal and avoid him hitting restricted free agency next summer. It's a sign of confidence in the 22-year-old guard, who'll serve as the Thunder's top point-of-attack defender now that Lu Dort is gone.
It's also a sign of commitment from OKC's ownership group after the team made cost-cutting moves this summer. The Thunder traded Dort, Aaron Wiggins and Isaiah Joe in three separate deals for a combined seven second-round picks and didn't get any players in return. That helped it position itself $6.9 million underneath the second apron with one standard roster spot still open.
#year #team
Wallace averaged career highs of 8.6 points and 2.6 **** ists last season on 43.2% shooting from the field (35.1% from deep). He also recorded a league-leading 150 steals and earned an All-Defensive second team selection.
More: Lu Dort reflects on OKC Thunder legacy as 'new chapter' with Atlanta Hawks begins
OKC had until Monday to sign Wallace to a new deal and avoid him hitting restricted free agency next summer. It's a sign of confidence in the 22-year-old guard, who'll serve as the Thunder's top point-of-attack defender now that Lu Dort is gone.
It's also a sign of commitment from OKC's ownership group after the team made cost-cutting moves this summer. The Thunder traded Dort, Aaron Wiggins and Isaiah Joe in three separate deals for a combined seven second-round picks and didn't get any players in return. That helped it position itself $6.9 million underneath the second apron with one standard roster spot still open.
#year #team
11 days ago
I'm living proof of the saying that "kids keep you young." My wife and I don't need social media. We've got multiple social barometers living in our house. But my usual reaction to every new trend or slang that enters their lexicon ("cooked" and "tuff" have been the new favorites) is skepticism. Before I try to figure out how much attention I need to put into what has them hyped, I try to figure out how serious they are about their enthusiasm.
Sunday's fantasy football action left me in a similar spot. We didn't get many massive box score performances from our stars. Instead, Week 6 was about our mid- and late-round picks or waiver-wire acquisitions. And with some giving us repeat results, the storylines coming out of Sunday should have us adjusting how we approach fantasy free agency on Tuesday.
Both Trevor Lawrence and C.J. Stroud were hooping all morning. They were the perfect pivot from whatever we had to watch on TNF. But as I was watching the Texans offense, a couple of things stood out.
what a throw from Stroud, too. pic.twitter.com/fz4EbOAKvT https://t.co/2MaTqWpPgd
First, Stroud's command of the offense was at an all-time high. Jacksonville came into the game with the 12th-highest pressure rate. Houston had a twofold response. It used an extra lineman on 35.6% of its plays (a season-high), and Stroud was getting rid of the football in 2.31 seconds (a season-low). The result was not only his lowest pressure rate (8.6%) but also his highest EPA per dropback (0.35). More importantly, the Jaguars' defensive measures, which included blitzing Stroud on 31.4% of his dropbacks, didn't stop him from throwing the ball.
#fantasy
Sunday's fantasy football action left me in a similar spot. We didn't get many massive box score performances from our stars. Instead, Week 6 was about our mid- and late-round picks or waiver-wire acquisitions. And with some giving us repeat results, the storylines coming out of Sunday should have us adjusting how we approach fantasy free agency on Tuesday.
Both Trevor Lawrence and C.J. Stroud were hooping all morning. They were the perfect pivot from whatever we had to watch on TNF. But as I was watching the Texans offense, a couple of things stood out.
what a throw from Stroud, too. pic.twitter.com/fz4EbOAKvT https://t.co/2MaTqWpPgd
First, Stroud's command of the offense was at an all-time high. Jacksonville came into the game with the 12th-highest pressure rate. Houston had a twofold response. It used an extra lineman on 35.6% of its plays (a season-high), and Stroud was getting rid of the football in 2.31 seconds (a season-low). The result was not only his lowest pressure rate (8.6%) but also his highest EPA per dropback (0.35). More importantly, the Jaguars' defensive measures, which included blitzing Stroud on 31.4% of his dropbacks, didn't stop him from throwing the ball.
#fantasy
22 days ago
Investing.com -- Shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) and Starbucks (NASDAQ: SBUX) swung sharply Thursday following a Financial Times report that Starbucks has explored a potential acquisition of the burrito chain.
Before you buy NVIDIA: our AI model's stock picks are beating the market by 120%+. See the list now »
Chipotle shares initially jumped as much as 8% following the report, while Starbucks fell as much as 6%. Both stocks later pared those moves as investors weighed the potential implications of a deal.
Whispers of a potential tie-up had circulated previously, including a report from Semafor, but the speculation was largely dismissed by the market at the time. The Financial Times report carries greater weight, indicating that Starbucks has worked with advisers in recent months on a potential proposal for Chipotle, which currently has a market value of nearly $39 billion.
The sharp divergence in the stocks, however, could complicate the financial mechanics of a potential transaction. Starbucks' declining share price would reduce the value of any equity used as consideration, while Chipotle's rally increases the price Starbucks would need to pay for the company. The status of Starbucks' plans, including whether it has made a formal offer, remains unclear.
#starbucks #market #shares
Before you buy NVIDIA: our AI model's stock picks are beating the market by 120%+. See the list now »
Chipotle shares initially jumped as much as 8% following the report, while Starbucks fell as much as 6%. Both stocks later pared those moves as investors weighed the potential implications of a deal.
Whispers of a potential tie-up had circulated previously, including a report from Semafor, but the speculation was largely dismissed by the market at the time. The Financial Times report carries greater weight, indicating that Starbucks has worked with advisers in recent months on a potential proposal for Chipotle, which currently has a market value of nearly $39 billion.
The sharp divergence in the stocks, however, could complicate the financial mechanics of a potential transaction. Starbucks' declining share price would reduce the value of any equity used as consideration, while Chipotle's rally increases the price Starbucks would need to pay for the company. The status of Starbucks' plans, including whether it has made a formal offer, remains unclear.
#starbucks #market #shares
22 days ago
Emmie P grew up in a household so religious she was not allowed to dress up for Halloween. Now dressing up as someone else is a central part of her career.
The cosplayer, Twitch partner and car enthusiast sat down with host Wayne Ayers on "The Wayne Ayers Podcast" to talk about convention life, how she picks her costumes, why she prefers DC to Marvel, the ***** anese sports car she keeps modifying and what aspiring streamers should do before they go live.
Ayers first met her at Anime Expo in Los Angeles, where a video of their conversation went viral. He said people still ask him about her.
"That was actually my first convention that I ever went to as a creator that you caught me at," she said. "It was a really cool experience. But I've just been getting more into the actual convention game of cosplay. Usually I just do it from my home, but I'm getting super comfortable with it now."
She has since been to Anime NYC, which she described as a huge ***** e with plenty to do but fewer activities than the Los Angeles show, where she played Beyblade on stream with a friend. Cellphone service was another problem for someone who streams from the convention floor.
#someone
The cosplayer, Twitch partner and car enthusiast sat down with host Wayne Ayers on "The Wayne Ayers Podcast" to talk about convention life, how she picks her costumes, why she prefers DC to Marvel, the ***** anese sports car she keeps modifying and what aspiring streamers should do before they go live.
Ayers first met her at Anime Expo in Los Angeles, where a video of their conversation went viral. He said people still ask him about her.
"That was actually my first convention that I ever went to as a creator that you caught me at," she said. "It was a really cool experience. But I've just been getting more into the actual convention game of cosplay. Usually I just do it from my home, but I'm getting super comfortable with it now."
She has since been to Anime NYC, which she described as a huge ***** e with plenty to do but fewer activities than the Los Angeles show, where she played Beyblade on stream with a friend. Cellphone service was another problem for someone who streams from the convention floor.
#someone
23 days ago
Australian veterinarian Charlie Forde worked for four years as an emergency vet in her home country before moving to Los Angeles and becoming a content creator. Now, she combines her veterinary experience with fundraising for animal organizations.
Every month, Forde picks one animal organization, raises funds and awareness for it, and then volunteers with it, she told Where Is The Buzz in a personal interview. Currently, her target is The Happy Herd, an animal sanctuary for rescued farm animals in Canada. Forde seeks to raise $15,000 to provide the necessary feed. She is also planning her next trip to Ukraine, where she will volunteer in collaboration with Global Animal Rescue and Response.
"I never stopped considering myself a vet," Forde noted.
Forde claims that quitting her clinical practice has created a bigger gap than she expected.
"I left full-time clinical practice in February 2023 when I moved to Los Angeles from four years of emergency medicine practice in Australia, and I missed it more than I anticipated," she said. "I missed the animals, the problem-solving, and the feeling that what I'm doing matters."
#animals
Every month, Forde picks one animal organization, raises funds and awareness for it, and then volunteers with it, she told Where Is The Buzz in a personal interview. Currently, her target is The Happy Herd, an animal sanctuary for rescued farm animals in Canada. Forde seeks to raise $15,000 to provide the necessary feed. She is also planning her next trip to Ukraine, where she will volunteer in collaboration with Global Animal Rescue and Response.
"I never stopped considering myself a vet," Forde noted.
Forde claims that quitting her clinical practice has created a bigger gap than she expected.
"I left full-time clinical practice in February 2023 when I moved to Los Angeles from four years of emergency medicine practice in Australia, and I missed it more than I anticipated," she said. "I missed the animals, the problem-solving, and the feeling that what I'm doing matters."
#animals
24 days ago
Kim Kardashian and Kanye West's kids have a squad of nannies helping them around the clock. During a recent interview, the 45-year-old mom revealed that she has help at home. While she reportedly hired five nannies, one is always on duty. For those unversed, the socialite has four kids: North, Saint, Chicago, and Psalm. She has primary custody of her children after her divorce from West.
Kim Kardashian has been raising her four kids with the help of five nannies. Recently, the reality TV star opened up about her personal life and daily routine in an interview with The Times. She talked about her children and how she's raising them. Kardashian admitted that she has a surprising amount of help.
She said that she has "one nanny on duty" and four nannies on rotation. With a whole help squad, Kardashian has been taking care of her four kids. Despite the nanny squad, she makes sure to be present in the children's lives as much as possible. Therefore, she is on school duty as the mom drops off and picks up the kids from school every day. She also has dinner with them daily and reads bedtime stories to them.
"I'm extremely patient and loving. I still have a kid sleep in my bed when they want. I read books with the kids every night," Kardashian said. Meanwhile, Saint, 10, Chicago, 8, and Psalm, 7, have not reportedly shown much interest in the entertainment world. But the socialite addressed how her eldest daughter, North, 13, has already been making her way into the music and fashion industries.
"Each kid does what they're comfortable with. So, my little ones come around when I'm filming, but they don't really do storylines. North loves it a little bit more than the rest," Kardashian added.
#kids #north #squad #Chicago
Kim Kardashian has been raising her four kids with the help of five nannies. Recently, the reality TV star opened up about her personal life and daily routine in an interview with The Times. She talked about her children and how she's raising them. Kardashian admitted that she has a surprising amount of help.
She said that she has "one nanny on duty" and four nannies on rotation. With a whole help squad, Kardashian has been taking care of her four kids. Despite the nanny squad, she makes sure to be present in the children's lives as much as possible. Therefore, she is on school duty as the mom drops off and picks up the kids from school every day. She also has dinner with them daily and reads bedtime stories to them.
"I'm extremely patient and loving. I still have a kid sleep in my bed when they want. I read books with the kids every night," Kardashian said. Meanwhile, Saint, 10, Chicago, 8, and Psalm, 7, have not reportedly shown much interest in the entertainment world. But the socialite addressed how her eldest daughter, North, 13, has already been making her way into the music and fashion industries.
"Each kid does what they're comfortable with. So, my little ones come around when I'm filming, but they don't really do storylines. North loves it a little bit more than the rest," Kardashian added.
#kids #north #squad #Chicago
1 month ago
The 'half-a-loaf' plan gifts roughly half of excess ***** ets to children, then uses a Medicaid-compliant annuity to bridge the penalty period.
Keeping retained cash in a bank account prevents the penalty clock from starting, since ***** ets above $2,000 disqualify the applicant outright.
One flawed annuity term or miscalculated divisor can unravel the entire plan, making elder law attorney guidance essential before any money moves.
Two retirees, same $1 million, same 4% rule, buy one finished with $1.4 million, the other hit $0 in 12 years. Our free reader guide explains the flaw that separated them, and the income-first method built to avoid it.
Picture a common scenario in a state where this type of crisis planning is welcome: Dad moves into a nursing home with roughly $200,000 sitting above the $2,000 countable-asset limit that most states use for single Nursing Home Medicaid applicants. His family gifts about $100,000 to the children, then uses the other half to buy a short-term Medicaid-compliant annuity that pays the nursing home while the gift penalty runs. When the penalty ends, Medicaid picks up the bill. The children keep the gift.
#annuity #roughly
Keeping retained cash in a bank account prevents the penalty clock from starting, since ***** ets above $2,000 disqualify the applicant outright.
One flawed annuity term or miscalculated divisor can unravel the entire plan, making elder law attorney guidance essential before any money moves.
Two retirees, same $1 million, same 4% rule, buy one finished with $1.4 million, the other hit $0 in 12 years. Our free reader guide explains the flaw that separated them, and the income-first method built to avoid it.
Picture a common scenario in a state where this type of crisis planning is welcome: Dad moves into a nursing home with roughly $200,000 sitting above the $2,000 countable-asset limit that most states use for single Nursing Home Medicaid applicants. His family gifts about $100,000 to the children, then uses the other half to buy a short-term Medicaid-compliant annuity that pays the nursing home while the gift penalty runs. When the penalty ends, Medicaid picks up the bill. The children keep the gift.
#annuity #roughly
1 month ago
Investors are largely in agreement that most of Berkshire Hathaway's (NYSE: BRKA) (NYSE: BRKB) stock holdings are solid picks. Every now and then, though, one of its selections raises a few eyebrows.
That's what happened when Berkshire bought 3 million shares of department store chain Macy's (NYSE: M) in the first quarter of this year. Most people appreciate that the struggling company owns a real estate portfolio that may well be worth more than the organization's current market cap of just under $6 billion. To unlock that value, however, the company would need to take on the expensive -- and business-destructive -- headache of winding down at least some of its existing retailing operations, perhaps undermining the value of that real estate in the process.
Missed AI's "Act 1"? Act 2 Could Be 15x Bigger. Most investors think they missed the AI boat because they didn't buy Nvidia in 2005. But according to our ***** ysts, we're only at the end of "Act 1"—the R&D phase. "Act 2" is the global rollout. Continue »
But maybe Berkshire Hathaway isn't looking at what's since grown to a 7.4 million share/$162 million stake in Macy's as a real estate bet after all. It could be a legitimate turnaround play.
This premise could be difficult to digest given the so-called retail apocalypse that's been underway since the advent of e-commerce. And, anyone who's been keeping close tabs on the brick-and-mortar retailing industry's struggle probably knows that department store chains' revenue peaked in the early 2000s, and has been dwindling ever since.
#real
That's what happened when Berkshire bought 3 million shares of department store chain Macy's (NYSE: M) in the first quarter of this year. Most people appreciate that the struggling company owns a real estate portfolio that may well be worth more than the organization's current market cap of just under $6 billion. To unlock that value, however, the company would need to take on the expensive -- and business-destructive -- headache of winding down at least some of its existing retailing operations, perhaps undermining the value of that real estate in the process.
Missed AI's "Act 1"? Act 2 Could Be 15x Bigger. Most investors think they missed the AI boat because they didn't buy Nvidia in 2005. But according to our ***** ysts, we're only at the end of "Act 1"—the R&D phase. "Act 2" is the global rollout. Continue »
But maybe Berkshire Hathaway isn't looking at what's since grown to a 7.4 million share/$162 million stake in Macy's as a real estate bet after all. It could be a legitimate turnaround play.
This premise could be difficult to digest given the so-called retail apocalypse that's been underway since the advent of e-commerce. And, anyone who's been keeping close tabs on the brick-and-mortar retailing industry's struggle probably knows that department store chains' revenue peaked in the early 2000s, and has been dwindling ever since.
#real
1 month ago
Are you worried enough about rising interest rates jump-starting a recession that you're looking for ways of sidestepping the effect of such an economic headwind? It's not a terrible idea to at least start making a mental plan for that possibility.
You may have considered Berkshire Hathaway (NYSE: BRKA) (NYSE: BRKB) to fill that role. Its wholly owned, private businesses generate plenty of cash flow regardless of the economic backdrop, after all.
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 »
But how do Berkshire shares actually perform during recessions? It's not like the data doesn't exist.
You probably know Berkshire Hathaway best by its stock picks. Although they're not built to be an actively managed mutual fund, its equity holdings -- and changes to these holdings -- are closely followed by investors looking for some new ideas for their own portfolios.
#berkshire #signal #NYSE #flashing
You may have considered Berkshire Hathaway (NYSE: BRKA) (NYSE: BRKB) to fill that role. Its wholly owned, private businesses generate plenty of cash flow regardless of the economic backdrop, after all.
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 »
But how do Berkshire shares actually perform during recessions? It's not like the data doesn't exist.
You probably know Berkshire Hathaway best by its stock picks. Although they're not built to be an actively managed mutual fund, its equity holdings -- and changes to these holdings -- are closely followed by investors looking for some new ideas for their own portfolios.
#berkshire #signal #NYSE #flashing
1 month ago
Aristotle International Equity Fund, sub-advised by Aristotle Capital Management, LLC, released its second-quarter 2026 investor letter. The letter can be downloaded here. Global equity markets reached record highs in Q2, with the MSCI ACWI Index rising 14.93%, while global fixed income grew modestly by 0.87%. Geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, affected energy markets and investor sentiment, highlighting volatility and fragility in global supply. Central banks reacted variably to inflationary pressures, with the ECB raising rates amidst concerns of stagflation, while the Fed and Bank of England held rates steady. Despite economic challenges, robust earnings continued in Europe and Asia, driven by AI infrastructure demand. The Aristotle International Equity Fund (Class I-2) recorded an 8.40% return in the quarter, underperforming both the MSCI EAFE Index, which returned 10.82%, and the MSCI ACWI ex USA Index, which returned 14.49%. Going forward, the fund remains focused on quality investments as geopolitical and macroeconomic complexities make forecasting returns challenging. Additionally, reviewing the Fund's top five holdings could help identify its best picks for 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Aristotle International Equity Fund highlighted Unilever PLC (NYSE:UL). Unilever PLC (NYSE:UL) is a British consumer goods giant, that sell products across food, homecare, beauty, and personal care categories. On September 17, 2026, Unilever PLC (NYSE:UL) closed at $62.22 per share. Over the past month, Unilever PLC (NYSE:UL) declined 2.99%, but its shares are down 5.09% over the past year. Unilever PLC (NYSE:UL) has a market capitalization of $133.98 billion, and its stock has traded within a 52-week range of $54.75 to $74.98.
Aristotle International Equity Fund stated the following regarding Unilever PLC (NYSE:UL) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"We first invested in Unilever PLC (NYSE:UL), the global consumer staples company, in the second quarter of 2013. We have long been attracted to the company's broad portfolio of leading personal care and food brands (such as Dove, Knorr and Axe), global scale, significant emerging markets exposure and strong position across everyday use categories. Over our more than decade-long holding period, Unilever strengthened and simplified its portfolio, divesting lower-growth food ***** ets, improving efficiency, increasing focus behind its largest brands and shifting the business toward faster-growing, higher-margin beauty, wellbeing, personal care and home care categories. More recently, the separation of the ice cream business and continued reshaping of the food portfolio have further narrowed Unilever's strategic focus. While we continue to view the remaining Unilever franchise as high quality, we believe the more compelling opportunity now resides in the independent ice cream business, where dedicated management and a category-specific strategy should provide a clearer pa
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Aristotle International Equity Fund highlighted Unilever PLC (NYSE:UL). Unilever PLC (NYSE:UL) is a British consumer goods giant, that sell products across food, homecare, beauty, and personal care categories. On September 17, 2026, Unilever PLC (NYSE:UL) closed at $62.22 per share. Over the past month, Unilever PLC (NYSE:UL) declined 2.99%, but its shares are down 5.09% over the past year. Unilever PLC (NYSE:UL) has a market capitalization of $133.98 billion, and its stock has traded within a 52-week range of $54.75 to $74.98.
Aristotle International Equity Fund stated the following regarding Unilever PLC (NYSE:UL) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"We first invested in Unilever PLC (NYSE:UL), the global consumer staples company, in the second quarter of 2013. We have long been attracted to the company's broad portfolio of leading personal care and food brands (such as Dove, Knorr and Axe), global scale, significant emerging markets exposure and strong position across everyday use categories. Over our more than decade-long holding period, Unilever strengthened and simplified its portfolio, divesting lower-growth food ***** ets, improving efficiency, increasing focus behind its largest brands and shifting the business toward faster-growing, higher-margin beauty, wellbeing, personal care and home care categories. More recently, the separation of the ice cream business and continued reshaping of the food portfolio have further narrowed Unilever's strategic focus. While we continue to view the remaining Unilever franchise as high quality, we believe the more compelling opportunity now resides in the independent ice cream business, where dedicated management and a category-specific strategy should provide a clearer pa
1 month ago
Fenimore ***** et Management, an investment management company, released its Q2 2026 investor letter. The letter can be downloaded here. U.S. equity markets saw broad gains in Q2, driven by strong corporate earnings, economic resilience, and enthusiasm for artificial intelligence (AI). Major indices reached all-time highs, though the energy sector declined. Continued earnings growth, especially among AI-related investments, supported the rally. Technology, particularly semiconductors, led performance as demand for AI infrastructure surged. Despite macroeconomic uncertainties and interest rate influences, Fenimore remains committed to investing in high-quality businesses. The Fenimore Small Cap Strategy returned 9.51% in the quarter, lagging the Russell 2000 Index's 21.49% gain. The underperformance was largely driven by avoiding lower-quality tech stocks linked to data center expansions. Additionally, reviewing the Fund's top five holdings could help identify its best picks for 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Fenimore ***** et Management highlighted Ryan Specialty Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:RYAN). Ryan Specialty Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:RYAN) is a specialty insurance services company that provides distribution, underwriting, product development, administration, and risk management services. On September 17, 2026, Ryan Specialty Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:RYAN) closed at $40.03 per share. The one-month return of Ryan Specialty Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:RYAN) was -8.32%, and its shares lost 25.53% over the past 52 weeks. Ryan Specialty Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:RYAN) has a market capitalization of $10.15 billion.
Fenimore ***** et Management stated the following regarding Ryan Specialty Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:RYAN) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"We initiated a position in Ryan Specialty Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:RYAN), which we had previously owned after its initial public offering. The insurance industry has seen softness in rates. While RYAN's model differs from traditional retail brokerage, the company released results citing a volatile environment which led to a decrease in their earnings outlook for the year. We're encouraged by the business's long-term prospects and, in our opinion, its legendary leader Pat Ryan. He is also purchasing shares of RYAN's stock during this weakness."
Ryan Specialty Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:RYAN) is not on our list of 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds Heading Into 2026. According to our database, 32 hedge fund portfolios held Ryan Specialty Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:RYAN) at the end of the second quarter, compared to 35 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Ryan Specialty Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:RYAN) as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Fenimore ***** et Management highlighted Ryan Specialty Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:RYAN). Ryan Specialty Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:RYAN) is a specialty insurance services company that provides distribution, underwriting, product development, administration, and risk management services. On September 17, 2026, Ryan Specialty Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:RYAN) closed at $40.03 per share. The one-month return of Ryan Specialty Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:RYAN) was -8.32%, and its shares lost 25.53% over the past 52 weeks. Ryan Specialty Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:RYAN) has a market capitalization of $10.15 billion.
Fenimore ***** et Management stated the following regarding Ryan Specialty Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:RYAN) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"We initiated a position in Ryan Specialty Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:RYAN), which we had previously owned after its initial public offering. The insurance industry has seen softness in rates. While RYAN's model differs from traditional retail brokerage, the company released results citing a volatile environment which led to a decrease in their earnings outlook for the year. We're encouraged by the business's long-term prospects and, in our opinion, its legendary leader Pat Ryan. He is also purchasing shares of RYAN's stock during this weakness."
Ryan Specialty Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:RYAN) is not on our list of 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds Heading Into 2026. According to our database, 32 hedge fund portfolios held Ryan Specialty Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:RYAN) at the end of the second quarter, compared to 35 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Ryan Specialty Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:RYAN) as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.
