1 day ago
The San Francisco 49ers came out firing on every cylinder to deliver a 27-7 beatdown Down Under of the Los Angeles Rams. From the decision to arrive early to their piling on late scoring, how well did Brock Purdy, Kyle Shanahan and the crew do in upsetting the Super Bowl favorites to start the season?
Offense: A-
The old guys ruled. And that Kaelon Black kid wasn't too shabby. A 30-something (Demarcus Robinson, Mike Evans, Deebo Samuel) accounted for their three TDs and an almost 40-something, Trent Williams, was the best of the bunch, because you and I had as many tackles, QB hits and sacks as Rams' All-Universe pass rusher Myles Garrett. Less happily, De'Zhaun Stribling and Jake Tonges were carted away in the second quarter. George Kittle was a rumor. Yet Brock Purdy didn't notice. Outside of a horrific interception, Purdy was terrific with his arm, legs and swaggy first-down celebrations. Does Christian McCaffrey finally have a caddy? Yes. Rookie Black looked excellent in a real game after resembling a third-round find in the spring and summer.
Defense: A+
Raheem Morris in 2028? The well-respected new defensive coordinator looked like Bill Belichick (the pre-2022 version) while his unit made the reigning NFL MVP Matthew Stafford look ordinary. Sorry, correction: not just ordinary, but awful. Having Nick Bosa, Fred Warner and Dre Greenlaw (combined games played for 49ers in 2025: 9) back together did give Morris some added IQ points. The LB duo turned out the lights on the Rams when Greenlaw held up Tyler Higbee and Warner peanut-punched the ball out. The 49ers didn't have a sack, but they made Stafford unsettled. Osa Odighizuwa had four of their eight QB hits, including a pressure that led to Stafford's INT.
#greenlaw
Offense: A-
The old guys ruled. And that Kaelon Black kid wasn't too shabby. A 30-something (Demarcus Robinson, Mike Evans, Deebo Samuel) accounted for their three TDs and an almost 40-something, Trent Williams, was the best of the bunch, because you and I had as many tackles, QB hits and sacks as Rams' All-Universe pass rusher Myles Garrett. Less happily, De'Zhaun Stribling and Jake Tonges were carted away in the second quarter. George Kittle was a rumor. Yet Brock Purdy didn't notice. Outside of a horrific interception, Purdy was terrific with his arm, legs and swaggy first-down celebrations. Does Christian McCaffrey finally have a caddy? Yes. Rookie Black looked excellent in a real game after resembling a third-round find in the spring and summer.
Defense: A+
Raheem Morris in 2028? The well-respected new defensive coordinator looked like Bill Belichick (the pre-2022 version) while his unit made the reigning NFL MVP Matthew Stafford look ordinary. Sorry, correction: not just ordinary, but awful. Having Nick Bosa, Fred Warner and Dre Greenlaw (combined games played for 49ers in 2025: 9) back together did give Morris some added IQ points. The LB duo turned out the lights on the Rams when Greenlaw held up Tyler Higbee and Warner peanut-punched the ball out. The 49ers didn't have a sack, but they made Stafford unsettled. Osa Odighizuwa had four of their eight QB hits, including a pressure that led to Stafford's INT.
#greenlaw
1 day ago
An early Los Angeles Rams celebration poking fun at a widely discussed travel debate backfired spectacularly against the 49ers when San Francisco responded with 24 unanswered points to secure a Week 1 win in Melbourne, Australia.
In the days leading up to this season-opening NFC West matchup, the discourse surrounding the game was less about the players on the field, and more about the way they'd get there from the United States. With the game set to take place in Melbourne on Friday morning local time, each team tried a different approach to account for the 17-hour time difference from California (where it was still Thursday afternoon). The Niners flew out of San Francisco last Wednesday to get acclimated to the new time zone and have a full week of practice. The Rams, meanwhile, did not fly in until the day before the game, with the thought of keeping their players' biological clocks on West Coast time.
It became clear that the Week 1 affair would be a referendum on the superior preparation approach, and, at first, it certainly looked like the Rams made the smarter choice. They were dominant early and scored the game's first touchdown. Los Angeles even made fun of the whole debate early in the second quarter after a bad Brock Purdy pick. The whole defense celebrated in the end zone with players taking a nap on the grass.
However, it proved to be a bit early to spike the proverbial football. The Rams followed up with an inexplicable interception of their own, and the Niners drove 86 yards down the field for their first touchdown of the game. From there, things completely fell apart for Los Angeles as the Raheem Morris-led Niners defense kept the Rams from doing anything, and Kyle Shanahan's offense somehow turned Myles Garrett - the biggest acquisition in the NFL this offseason - completely invisible. San Francisco scored 24 straight points, including seven from a 99-yard drive down the field, and even forced two more turnovers.
Linebacker Fred Warner even gave a response of his own, getting a Steph Curry-style night-night celebration off in his first game since fracturing his ankle last season.
#Rams #game #angeles
In the days leading up to this season-opening NFC West matchup, the discourse surrounding the game was less about the players on the field, and more about the way they'd get there from the United States. With the game set to take place in Melbourne on Friday morning local time, each team tried a different approach to account for the 17-hour time difference from California (where it was still Thursday afternoon). The Niners flew out of San Francisco last Wednesday to get acclimated to the new time zone and have a full week of practice. The Rams, meanwhile, did not fly in until the day before the game, with the thought of keeping their players' biological clocks on West Coast time.
It became clear that the Week 1 affair would be a referendum on the superior preparation approach, and, at first, it certainly looked like the Rams made the smarter choice. They were dominant early and scored the game's first touchdown. Los Angeles even made fun of the whole debate early in the second quarter after a bad Brock Purdy pick. The whole defense celebrated in the end zone with players taking a nap on the grass.
However, it proved to be a bit early to spike the proverbial football. The Rams followed up with an inexplicable interception of their own, and the Niners drove 86 yards down the field for their first touchdown of the game. From there, things completely fell apart for Los Angeles as the Raheem Morris-led Niners defense kept the Rams from doing anything, and Kyle Shanahan's offense somehow turned Myles Garrett - the biggest acquisition in the NFL this offseason - completely invisible. San Francisco scored 24 straight points, including seven from a 99-yard drive down the field, and even forced two more turnovers.
Linebacker Fred Warner even gave a response of his own, getting a Steph Curry-style night-night celebration off in his first game since fracturing his ankle last season.
#Rams #game #angeles
1 day ago
The Los Angeles Rams were blown out by the San Francisco 49ers by a score of 27-7, losing in the NFL's first-ever game in Melbourne, Australia. Here are five observations from the embarrassing defeat.
One has to hope that the reason why the Rams played as awfully as they did was the travel. I do not share that hope. Sean McVay and Chris Shula got outclassed by Kyle Shanahan and Raheem Morris. Shanahan relied on his usual tactics of targeting the Rams' underbelly with the pass, while softening up their interior with the run. After enough times, Shanahan pulled the defense in to take the top off.
Morris knows McVay like the back of his championship hand. It was the second straight year that Morris outmaneuvered every attack McVay threw at him. It's not surprising that Morris is behind the Rams' two ugliest losses in recent memory.
This is a third straight year that Shanahan has run the same thing against Shula and succeeded. When both sides are at full strength, the Rams lose, and relying on a battle of attrition to beat the 49ers over the course of the season isn't exactly an awful move, but it's one that reeks of defeatism. The Rams were defeated decisively. Aaron Donald isn't fixing this.
LaFleur left for Arizona, and it appears he took the Rams' short passing attack with him. The offense could not move the ball through the air at all, and despite the addition of Kliff Kingsbury and the elevation of Nate Scheelhaase, the McVay offense was pedestrian.
#shula
One has to hope that the reason why the Rams played as awfully as they did was the travel. I do not share that hope. Sean McVay and Chris Shula got outclassed by Kyle Shanahan and Raheem Morris. Shanahan relied on his usual tactics of targeting the Rams' underbelly with the pass, while softening up their interior with the run. After enough times, Shanahan pulled the defense in to take the top off.
Morris knows McVay like the back of his championship hand. It was the second straight year that Morris outmaneuvered every attack McVay threw at him. It's not surprising that Morris is behind the Rams' two ugliest losses in recent memory.
This is a third straight year that Shanahan has run the same thing against Shula and succeeded. When both sides are at full strength, the Rams lose, and relying on a battle of attrition to beat the 49ers over the course of the season isn't exactly an awful move, but it's one that reeks of defeatism. The Rams were defeated decisively. Aaron Donald isn't fixing this.
LaFleur left for Arizona, and it appears he took the Rams' short passing attack with him. The offense could not move the ball through the air at all, and despite the addition of Kliff Kingsbury and the elevation of Nate Scheelhaase, the McVay offense was pedestrian.
#shula
2 days ago
As one of the NFL's best defenders over the last decade or so, we didn't get to see much of Nick Bosa in 2025. The San Francisco 49ers star pass-rusher tore his ACL in the third game of last season. This injury obviously ended his campaign extremely early and what could've been a bid for his second career Defensive Player of the Year award.
It doesn't seem like that ACL tear will affect Bosa's availability in any meaningful way in 2026.
As 49ers defensive coordinator Raheem Morris clarified earlier this week, Bosa will, in fact, play against the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia, on Thursday. The best part for the 49ers? Bosa doesn't appear to have any meaningful limitations. Because Bosa tore his ACL in Week 3 of last year, he's basically had almost a calendar year to recover and train back to 100 percent. He will be full go as he tries to make Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford's life a living ****** .
That is, to put it lightly, amazing news for a San Francisco team that has been ravaged by injuries over the last couple of years:
Of course, Bosa's potential impact, at least from the outset, might be a different story. This is the second time in Bosa's career that he has torn an ACL (albeit not the same one twice). Bosa is still just 28 years old, but it's hard not to imagine him potentially taking some time to knock off some rust now that he's torn one of the most important athletic ligaments in both of his knees.
#year
It doesn't seem like that ACL tear will affect Bosa's availability in any meaningful way in 2026.
As 49ers defensive coordinator Raheem Morris clarified earlier this week, Bosa will, in fact, play against the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia, on Thursday. The best part for the 49ers? Bosa doesn't appear to have any meaningful limitations. Because Bosa tore his ACL in Week 3 of last year, he's basically had almost a calendar year to recover and train back to 100 percent. He will be full go as he tries to make Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford's life a living ****** .
That is, to put it lightly, amazing news for a San Francisco team that has been ravaged by injuries over the last couple of years:
Of course, Bosa's potential impact, at least from the outset, might be a different story. This is the second time in Bosa's career that he has torn an ACL (albeit not the same one twice). Bosa is still just 28 years old, but it's hard not to imagine him potentially taking some time to knock off some rust now that he's torn one of the most important athletic ligaments in both of his knees.
#year
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4 days ago
After a whirlwind offseason and preseason, the San Francisco 49ers got some much-needed good news going into Week 1 of the NFL season.
Nick Bosa will play against NFC West rival Los Angeles Rams in Thursday's season opener in Melbourne, Australia, defensive coordinator Raheem Morris told reporters Monday, Sept. 8. The All-Pro edge rusher tore his right ACL in Week 3 last season and began doing individual drills during training camp in July but was soon sidelined again with tendinitis. He continued to rehab in recent weeks and returned to practice on Sept. 2. He progressed enough in his rehab to travel with the Niners to Melbourne, but his status remained unclear.
That was until Morris addressed the media on Monday night in no uncertain terms.
"Oh, he's going out there," Morris said. "Whatever you want to say, he's going. He'll be there. We're not hiding that."
Bosa took the field for practice in full uniform on Monday with a brace on his right knee. A few other key players on the injury report – tight end George Kittle, wide receiver Mike Evans and running back Christian McCaffrey – were all reportedly fully dressed as well.
#Monday
Nick Bosa will play against NFC West rival Los Angeles Rams in Thursday's season opener in Melbourne, Australia, defensive coordinator Raheem Morris told reporters Monday, Sept. 8. The All-Pro edge rusher tore his right ACL in Week 3 last season and began doing individual drills during training camp in July but was soon sidelined again with tendinitis. He continued to rehab in recent weeks and returned to practice on Sept. 2. He progressed enough in his rehab to travel with the Niners to Melbourne, but his status remained unclear.
That was until Morris addressed the media on Monday night in no uncertain terms.
"Oh, he's going out there," Morris said. "Whatever you want to say, he's going. He'll be there. We're not hiding that."
Bosa took the field for practice in full uniform on Monday with a brace on his right knee. A few other key players on the injury report – tight end George Kittle, wide receiver Mike Evans and running back Christian McCaffrey – were all reportedly fully dressed as well.
#Monday
4 days ago
MELBOURNE, Australia - The mystery is solved.
San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator Raheem Morris told reporters ahead of Tuesday's practice at AAMI Park in Melbourne that defensive end Nick Bosa will play in the season-opener against the Los Angeles Rams.
"Oh, he's going out there," Morris said, after initially giving an unclear response and being asked to clarify in a follow-up question. "Whatever you want to say, he's going. He'll be there. We're not hiding that."
The announcement of Bosa's return ends more than a month-long saga since the 28-year-old began missing training camp practices. Bosa, who's coming off a torn right ACL, was dealing with lingering tendinitis from his recovery early in August.
Then, he suddenly returned for one practice last Wednesday, the morning of the 49ers' flight to Australia. After that practice, Bosa said his body felt great and that he was preparing to play.
#morris #play #going
San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator Raheem Morris told reporters ahead of Tuesday's practice at AAMI Park in Melbourne that defensive end Nick Bosa will play in the season-opener against the Los Angeles Rams.
"Oh, he's going out there," Morris said, after initially giving an unclear response and being asked to clarify in a follow-up question. "Whatever you want to say, he's going. He'll be there. We're not hiding that."
The announcement of Bosa's return ends more than a month-long saga since the 28-year-old began missing training camp practices. Bosa, who's coming off a torn right ACL, was dealing with lingering tendinitis from his recovery early in August.
Then, he suddenly returned for one practice last Wednesday, the morning of the 49ers' flight to Australia. After that practice, Bosa said his body felt great and that he was preparing to play.
#morris #play #going
4 days ago
If there were any doubts about Nick Bosa suiting up in Australia for the San Francisco 49ers, defensive coordinator Raheem Morris put those to rest in his most recent press conference.
Morris told the media, "He's going [out there]. He'll be there. We're not hiding that."
We're a week removed from Bosa saying he had a great day after opening up about his recovery. It sounds like Bosa and the 49ers have seen everything they've needed to during this most recent set of practices.
Bosa was in full pads for Tuesday's session:
The 49ers entered this season with their defense centered on Nick Bosa. There was already immense pressure on his shoulders. After Sam Okuayinonu broke his foot and landed on the Injured Reserve, Raheem Morris may rely on his star edge rusher even more.
#bosa #nick
Morris told the media, "He's going [out there]. He'll be there. We're not hiding that."
We're a week removed from Bosa saying he had a great day after opening up about his recovery. It sounds like Bosa and the 49ers have seen everything they've needed to during this most recent set of practices.
Bosa was in full pads for Tuesday's session:
The 49ers entered this season with their defense centered on Nick Bosa. There was already immense pressure on his shoulders. After Sam Okuayinonu broke his foot and landed on the Injured Reserve, Raheem Morris may rely on his star edge rusher even more.
#bosa #nick
4 days ago
The Los Angeles Rams look to take a big first step in their championship campaign when they play the San Francisco 49ers in their season-opener from Melbourne, Australia. Not only are the Rams trying to kick off their season with a win against their rival, becoming the first NFL team to win a game in Australia, but that would also give them an instant advantage in the race for the NFC West.
However, the 49ers have championship ambitions of their own, with newly hired defensive coordinator Raheem Morris looking to give San Francisco the edge over his old team. On Monday, the Rams learned that Morris will have his top weapon on the defensive line active. ESPN's Nick Wagoner reported that star defensive end Nick Bosa will play in the contest, per Morris.
Bosa, the 2022 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, played in three games last season before he tore his ACL, ending his season. In those games, Bosa had 17 total tackles, two sacks, two forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery.
The Rams are set to start Alaric Jackson and Warren McClendon Jr. at tackle, with David Quessenberry set to be their backup.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: 49ers star Nick Bosa to play vs. Rams in Week 1
#francisco
However, the 49ers have championship ambitions of their own, with newly hired defensive coordinator Raheem Morris looking to give San Francisco the edge over his old team. On Monday, the Rams learned that Morris will have his top weapon on the defensive line active. ESPN's Nick Wagoner reported that star defensive end Nick Bosa will play in the contest, per Morris.
Bosa, the 2022 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, played in three games last season before he tore his ACL, ending his season. In those games, Bosa had 17 total tackles, two sacks, two forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery.
The Rams are set to start Alaric Jackson and Warren McClendon Jr. at tackle, with David Quessenberry set to be their backup.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: 49ers star Nick Bosa to play vs. Rams in Week 1
#francisco
8 days ago
Where to watch East St. Louis vs. Gainesville football: Channel, live stream, kickoff time for high school game originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
East St. Louis always casts a wide net when it comes to football scheduling, and the latest top matchup is a showdown with Georgia power Gainesville on Friday.
The Flyers, ranked No. 37 nationally by MaxPreps, already have faced a pair of nationally ranked opponents this season, taking down Chicago Mt. Carmel 42-23 in the opener, then falling 35-28 in overtime at Florida's American Heritage last weekend.
The players to watch for the home team in this one are Flyers running back Myson Johnson-Cook, an Auburn commit, and Florida-bound corner Raheem Floyd.
Gainesville has an elite DB of its own in junior four-star Jai'lil Goley, who anchors the defense alongside senior linebacker and Pitt commit Jeremiah Proctor.
#gainesville #flyers #Football #nationally
East St. Louis always casts a wide net when it comes to football scheduling, and the latest top matchup is a showdown with Georgia power Gainesville on Friday.
The Flyers, ranked No. 37 nationally by MaxPreps, already have faced a pair of nationally ranked opponents this season, taking down Chicago Mt. Carmel 42-23 in the opener, then falling 35-28 in overtime at Florida's American Heritage last weekend.
The players to watch for the home team in this one are Flyers running back Myson Johnson-Cook, an Auburn commit, and Florida-bound corner Raheem Floyd.
Gainesville has an elite DB of its own in junior four-star Jai'lil Goley, who anchors the defense alongside senior linebacker and Pitt commit Jeremiah Proctor.
#gainesville #flyers #Football #nationally
10 days ago
The San Francisco 49ers are one day - and one practice - away from boarding a flight to Melbourne, Australia, for their Sept. 10 season-opener against the Los Angeles Rams. It's still unclear if one of their two best defensive players will be making the trip.
General manager John Lynch said in a Tuesday morning interview with KNBR that defensive end Nick Bosa worked out on a side field Monday and was expected to do the same Tuesday. But the star defensive end wasn't present for either day's portion of open practice.
The lack of transparency from the 49ers surrounding Bosa's recovery is creating a bizarre situation. Perhaps he simply doesn't want to work out on the side field in front of a slew of cameras?
Bosa hasn't practiced in nearly a month. He was dealing with tendinitis in August amid his continued recovery from a torn right ACL suffered last September. According to coach Kyle Shanahan, the tendinitis isn't a concern at this point. Rather, he said the team is "just being smart" by monitoring Bosa's practice intensity on a daily basis.
Defensive coordinator Raheem Morris declined to offer specifics on the management plan for the 28-year-old superstar: "Bosa's got a plan in place. I don't want to reveal it if Kyle hasn't done it, but I'll let him do that stuff, break the news to you," Morris said. "But obviously they've got a real, legit plan … all-hands-on-deck type mentality to get him ready to go, so whatever it takes for him to get out there. I'm just going to feel good when he gets a chance to get out there and to be able to call those plays for him."
#bosa #side #recovery
General manager John Lynch said in a Tuesday morning interview with KNBR that defensive end Nick Bosa worked out on a side field Monday and was expected to do the same Tuesday. But the star defensive end wasn't present for either day's portion of open practice.
The lack of transparency from the 49ers surrounding Bosa's recovery is creating a bizarre situation. Perhaps he simply doesn't want to work out on the side field in front of a slew of cameras?
Bosa hasn't practiced in nearly a month. He was dealing with tendinitis in August amid his continued recovery from a torn right ACL suffered last September. According to coach Kyle Shanahan, the tendinitis isn't a concern at this point. Rather, he said the team is "just being smart" by monitoring Bosa's practice intensity on a daily basis.
Defensive coordinator Raheem Morris declined to offer specifics on the management plan for the 28-year-old superstar: "Bosa's got a plan in place. I don't want to reveal it if Kyle hasn't done it, but I'll let him do that stuff, break the news to you," Morris said. "But obviously they've got a real, legit plan … all-hands-on-deck type mentality to get him ready to go, so whatever it takes for him to get out there. I'm just going to feel good when he gets a chance to get out there and to be able to call those plays for him."
#bosa #side #recovery
13 days ago
Under 18s Premier League North
Manchester City U18 5 (Oliver 7', 36', 61', 86', Aiyegbusi 90+2')
Leeds United U18 1 (White 44')
Manchester City U18s: Vickery (GK), Wain (C), Lawrie, Barrett (Obin 71'), Houlihan, Gueke, Whisker (Aina 71'), Carrington, Oliver (Osifo 87'), Motsi (Aiyegbusi 58'), Woode (Raheem 71'). Subs not used: Grigg, Smith.
Leeds United U18s: Wood (GK), Walker, Balmer, Whitehead, (Hazell-Schofield 71') Watson (Bridge 77'), Megson, Stockton (Graaf 70'), Bhaskaran (C), White, Ibrovic-Fletcher, Mensah (Heywood 71'). Subs not used: Herrick, Morrall, Bennett.
#united #white
Manchester City U18 5 (Oliver 7', 36', 61', 86', Aiyegbusi 90+2')
Leeds United U18 1 (White 44')
Manchester City U18s: Vickery (GK), Wain (C), Lawrie, Barrett (Obin 71'), Houlihan, Gueke, Whisker (Aina 71'), Carrington, Oliver (Osifo 87'), Motsi (Aiyegbusi 58'), Woode (Raheem 71'). Subs not used: Grigg, Smith.
Leeds United U18s: Wood (GK), Walker, Balmer, Whitehead, (Hazell-Schofield 71') Watson (Bridge 77'), Megson, Stockton (Graaf 70'), Bhaskaran (C), White, Ibrovic-Fletcher, Mensah (Heywood 71'). Subs not used: Herrick, Morrall, Bennett.
#united #white
17 days ago
Raheem Sterling will appear in court next month to face charges of dangerous driving and possessing nitrous oxide for wrongful inhalation after crashing his car into motorway barriers in May.
The former England winger, who most recently played for Feyenoord in the Dutch Eredivisie, crashed his Lamborghini into barriers on the M3 in Hampshire on the morning of Thursday, 28 May.
The 31-year-old was arrested and then released on bail pending further enquiries.
A Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary spokesman said: "A driver will appear in court next month to face charges following a collision on the M3.
"Raheem Sterling, 31, from Berkshire, has been charged for the following offences: dangerous driving, possession of nitrous oxide for wrongful inhalation, failing to provide a specimen.
#raheem
The former England winger, who most recently played for Feyenoord in the Dutch Eredivisie, crashed his Lamborghini into barriers on the M3 in Hampshire on the morning of Thursday, 28 May.
The 31-year-old was arrested and then released on bail pending further enquiries.
A Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary spokesman said: "A driver will appear in court next month to face charges following a collision on the M3.
"Raheem Sterling, 31, from Berkshire, has been charged for the following offences: dangerous driving, possession of nitrous oxide for wrongful inhalation, failing to provide a specimen.
#raheem
24 days ago
Fred Warner is back on the field for the San Francisco 49ers, and he says the defense will look different than the one that took the field without him last season.
Warner missed most of last year with a fractured and dislocated ankle, and San Francisco's defense fell from a top-10 unit in yards allowed to 20th in his absence. With Warner back and new defensive coordinator Raheem Morris — San Francisco's fifth coordinator in five years — installing his scheme, Warner previewed a defense built around more disguise and more moving pieces up front.
"Being more multiple and different sort of sets personnel-wise that we're bringing out," Warner told Yahoo Sports' Jori Epstein. "We have some more versatility with guys being able to play on the line of scrimmage, off of the ball. Obviously we've always brought a nickel to play on the field, but having an ability to have an extra D lineman, an extra backer or something like that.
"It'll kind of be a different look for offenses from what they're accustomed to seeing from us."
This tracks similarly to what 49ers cornerback Upton Stout said about Morris' defensive philosophy. The second-year defensive back noted that Morris lets everyone play fast and not worry too much about what they can or cannot do.
#morris #defense
Warner missed most of last year with a fractured and dislocated ankle, and San Francisco's defense fell from a top-10 unit in yards allowed to 20th in his absence. With Warner back and new defensive coordinator Raheem Morris — San Francisco's fifth coordinator in five years — installing his scheme, Warner previewed a defense built around more disguise and more moving pieces up front.
"Being more multiple and different sort of sets personnel-wise that we're bringing out," Warner told Yahoo Sports' Jori Epstein. "We have some more versatility with guys being able to play on the line of scrimmage, off of the ball. Obviously we've always brought a nickel to play on the field, but having an ability to have an extra D lineman, an extra backer or something like that.
"It'll kind of be a different look for offenses from what they're accustomed to seeing from us."
This tracks similarly to what 49ers cornerback Upton Stout said about Morris' defensive philosophy. The second-year defensive back noted that Morris lets everyone play fast and not worry too much about what they can or cannot do.
#morris #defense
27 days ago
Last-minute mishap: Sporting Club Jacksonville men's soccer experienced another heartbreaker at the finish, when a deflected header rebounded off defender Antonio Gomez and into his own net in stoppage time to give Indy Eleven a 1-0 victory in the USL Championship on Aug. 15.
Painful finish: Sporting Jax (1-14-5) looked on course for a tie until the 92nd minute. Indy's Cam Lindley lofted a cross from the left wing, Paco Craig headed it from a tight angle and the loose ball ricocheted off Gomez and into the net past Jacksonville goalkeeper Jake McGuire.
Blake back in town: Jack Blake, who played for the Jacksonville Armada in the North American Soccer League in 2017, played all 90 minutes in midfield for Indy.
Quick free kicks: Sporting Jax was outshot 19-5 and never managed to take an official shot from inside the penalty area. … Sporting Jax midfielder Raheem Somersall left the game due to injury in the 29th minute, replaced by Harvey Neville. … Canadian defender Marcus Godinho made his first start for the club. … Sporting Jax has now gone 351 minutes without scoring, since Ahmad Al-Qaq's ninth-minute goal on July 18.
Up next: Sporting Jax next plays 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 22 against the Birmingham Legion at Protective Stadium in Birmingham, Ala.
#gomez
Painful finish: Sporting Jax (1-14-5) looked on course for a tie until the 92nd minute. Indy's Cam Lindley lofted a cross from the left wing, Paco Craig headed it from a tight angle and the loose ball ricocheted off Gomez and into the net past Jacksonville goalkeeper Jake McGuire.
Blake back in town: Jack Blake, who played for the Jacksonville Armada in the North American Soccer League in 2017, played all 90 minutes in midfield for Indy.
Quick free kicks: Sporting Jax was outshot 19-5 and never managed to take an official shot from inside the penalty area. … Sporting Jax midfielder Raheem Somersall left the game due to injury in the 29th minute, replaced by Harvey Neville. … Canadian defender Marcus Godinho made his first start for the club. … Sporting Jax has now gone 351 minutes without scoring, since Ahmad Al-Qaq's ninth-minute goal on July 18.
Up next: Sporting Jax next plays 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 22 against the Birmingham Legion at Protective Stadium in Birmingham, Ala.
#gomez
1 month ago
The Detroit Lions tried out former Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud on Sunday, ESPN's Marc Raimondi reported. McCloud signed with the Falcons as a free agent in 2024 and recorded a career-high 62 catches for 686 receiving yards as the team's starting slot receiver.
However, the 29-year-old return specialist struggled to replicate that success during his second season in Atlanta. McCloud was barely involved on offense in 2025, and after being listed as a healthy scratch for three consecutive games, he was released following the team's Week 7 loss to the San Francisco 49ers.
Something seemed to be off in the Falcons' wide receiver room last season. Both McCloud and Darnell Mooney struggled after breakout years in 2024, and the team fired WRs coach Ike Hilliard after a 30-0 loss to the Carolina Panthers.
The day before McCloud was released, the veteran wide receiver was sent home from practice without much explanation from former Falcons head coach Raheem Morris.
"I wouldn't say it is a disciplinary thing," Morris said at the time. "More a football thing with something we have to get straightened out."
#falcons
However, the 29-year-old return specialist struggled to replicate that success during his second season in Atlanta. McCloud was barely involved on offense in 2025, and after being listed as a healthy scratch for three consecutive games, he was released following the team's Week 7 loss to the San Francisco 49ers.
Something seemed to be off in the Falcons' wide receiver room last season. Both McCloud and Darnell Mooney struggled after breakout years in 2024, and the team fired WRs coach Ike Hilliard after a 30-0 loss to the Carolina Panthers.
The day before McCloud was released, the veteran wide receiver was sent home from practice without much explanation from former Falcons head coach Raheem Morris.
"I wouldn't say it is a disciplinary thing," Morris said at the time. "More a football thing with something we have to get straightened out."
#falcons
1 month ago
The San Francisco 49ers are signing KhaDarel Hodge, an undrafted free agent from the 2018 class. Hodge is another former Raheem Morris player. He spent the previous four seasons with the Atlanta Falcons. Hodge, 6'2″, 210 pounds, only registered three receptions in 2025 and seven in 2024. He had 14 catches in 2023 for 232 yards, and 13 for 202 in 2022.
Dodge lined up primarily on the outside with the Falcons. While he's likely nothing more than a camp body, that nugget is important as it would allow De'Zhaun Stribling, or maybe Deebo Samuel, or whichever player they want to focus on getting more slot reps.
It's going to be a critical couple of weeks for players like Jacob Cowing and Junior Bergen. Both are fighting for that final roster spot at wideout. They'll need to show they can win inside and outside. It shouldn't be ruled out that if both excel, Christian Kirk might be the odd man out, even if it's because of an injury. It also helps, in Cowing's case, that he has the upper hand at punt returner — for now, at least.
Demarcus Robinson has been one of the biggest beneficiaries of the injuries at wide receiver. He went from "will he even make the roster" to potentially playing starter-level snaps. Funny how things change in a week.
We'll see if Hodge turns into anything more than relief during practice for the six or so receivers slated to make the roster.
#hodge #falcons #francisco
Dodge lined up primarily on the outside with the Falcons. While he's likely nothing more than a camp body, that nugget is important as it would allow De'Zhaun Stribling, or maybe Deebo Samuel, or whichever player they want to focus on getting more slot reps.
It's going to be a critical couple of weeks for players like Jacob Cowing and Junior Bergen. Both are fighting for that final roster spot at wideout. They'll need to show they can win inside and outside. It shouldn't be ruled out that if both excel, Christian Kirk might be the odd man out, even if it's because of an injury. It also helps, in Cowing's case, that he has the upper hand at punt returner — for now, at least.
Demarcus Robinson has been one of the biggest beneficiaries of the injuries at wide receiver. He went from "will he even make the roster" to potentially playing starter-level snaps. Funny how things change in a week.
We'll see if Hodge turns into anything more than relief during practice for the six or so receivers slated to make the roster.
#hodge #falcons #francisco
1 month ago
The San Francisco 49ers worked out Ogbo Okoronkwo this past Sunday. On Wednesday morning, the team officially reunited Okoronkwo with Raheem Morris.
The former fifth-round pick out of the 2018 NFL Draft has played with some of the best defensive coordinators in the NFL, including Morris, DeMeco Ryans, Jim Schwartz, and Vic Fangio.
Okoronkwo, 31, has been a backup for most of his career. He played sparingly under Morris in the one year they spent together with the Rams. Okoronkwo actually played more in Los Angeles once Morris left. From the 2022 to 2024 seasons, he played around 400 snaps per season.
To date, Okoronkwo's best year came with the Texans in 2022, where he generated a 18.5% pressure rate, had 33 stops, and 5 sacks.
The 49ers are in need of edge rush help after losing a potential depth piece in Mikail Kamara to a torn ACL, Keion White with an adductor injury, and Cameron Sample to a knee injury. Mykel Williams remains on the active/PUP List, while Nick Bosa continues to work his way up to participating in 11-on-11 drills.
#played #best #injury
The former fifth-round pick out of the 2018 NFL Draft has played with some of the best defensive coordinators in the NFL, including Morris, DeMeco Ryans, Jim Schwartz, and Vic Fangio.
Okoronkwo, 31, has been a backup for most of his career. He played sparingly under Morris in the one year they spent together with the Rams. Okoronkwo actually played more in Los Angeles once Morris left. From the 2022 to 2024 seasons, he played around 400 snaps per season.
To date, Okoronkwo's best year came with the Texans in 2022, where he generated a 18.5% pressure rate, had 33 stops, and 5 sacks.
The 49ers are in need of edge rush help after losing a potential depth piece in Mikail Kamara to a torn ACL, Keion White with an adductor injury, and Cameron Sample to a knee injury. Mykel Williams remains on the active/PUP List, while Nick Bosa continues to work his way up to participating in 11-on-11 drills.
#played #best #injury
1 month ago
The 49ers are adding a veteran edge rusher.
Per Jeremy Fowler of ESPN, Ogbo Okoronkwo is signing with San Francisco on Wednesday.
Okoronkwo, 31, spent last season with the Eagles. He played just one game, suffering a torn triceps in the contest and went on injured reserve.
Okoronkwo previously played under 49ers defensive coordinator Raheem Morris with the Rams, with the pair having won Super Bowl LVI to cap the 2021 season.
A fifth-round pick in the 2018 draft, Okoronkwo has appeared in 81 games with 13 starts, recording 17.0 sacks, 31 tackles for loss, and 38 quarterback hits.
#played #espn #Eagles
Per Jeremy Fowler of ESPN, Ogbo Okoronkwo is signing with San Francisco on Wednesday.
Okoronkwo, 31, spent last season with the Eagles. He played just one game, suffering a torn triceps in the contest and went on injured reserve.
Okoronkwo previously played under 49ers defensive coordinator Raheem Morris with the Rams, with the pair having won Super Bowl LVI to cap the 2021 season.
A fifth-round pick in the 2018 draft, Okoronkwo has appeared in 81 games with 13 starts, recording 17.0 sacks, 31 tackles for loss, and 38 quarterback hits.
#played #espn #Eagles
1 month ago
The San Francisco 49ers have a wide range of outcomes for the 2026 season based on how they finished the 2025 season, injuries and other roster issues.
Sports Illustrated's Conor Orr is the most recent **** yst to make a prediction, writing that the 49ers finish third in the NFC West at 10-7 in his annual 272-game season projection, behind both the Rams (13-4) and Seahawks (11-6). Orr still has San Francisco reaching the postseason as the NFC's No. 7 seed.
In this prediction, the 49ers are in a three-way logjam with the Packers and Bears, all projected at 10-7. Green Bay comes out ahead in the tiebreaker order via strength of victory, but San Francisco edges out Chicago the same way, claiming the final NFC wild-card spot while the Bears.
Orr flagged concerns with the roster's age and health. He notes the 49ers are leaning on a 30-year-old running back, wide receivers turning 30 and 33, and a 38-year-old left tackle, with newly signed Deebo Samuel replacing an injured Ricky Pearsall.
But the bigger factor in Orr's optimism is organizational depth. He pointed to San Francisco's performance last season even without star linebacker Fred Warner and quarterback Brock Purdy for stretches, along with the strength of Kyle Shanahan's staff. Orr specifically praised Raheem Morris and Matt Eberflus, both of whom have NFL head-coaching experience, and longtime **** istant Chris Foerster as reasons the operation can withstand instability.
#francisco #season #bears #west
Sports Illustrated's Conor Orr is the most recent **** yst to make a prediction, writing that the 49ers finish third in the NFC West at 10-7 in his annual 272-game season projection, behind both the Rams (13-4) and Seahawks (11-6). Orr still has San Francisco reaching the postseason as the NFC's No. 7 seed.
In this prediction, the 49ers are in a three-way logjam with the Packers and Bears, all projected at 10-7. Green Bay comes out ahead in the tiebreaker order via strength of victory, but San Francisco edges out Chicago the same way, claiming the final NFC wild-card spot while the Bears.
Orr flagged concerns with the roster's age and health. He notes the 49ers are leaning on a 30-year-old running back, wide receivers turning 30 and 33, and a 38-year-old left tackle, with newly signed Deebo Samuel replacing an injured Ricky Pearsall.
But the bigger factor in Orr's optimism is organizational depth. He pointed to San Francisco's performance last season even without star linebacker Fred Warner and quarterback Brock Purdy for stretches, along with the strength of Kyle Shanahan's staff. Orr specifically praised Raheem Morris and Matt Eberflus, both of whom have NFL head-coaching experience, and longtime **** istant Chris Foerster as reasons the operation can withstand instability.
#francisco #season #bears #west
1 month ago
The Detroit Lions announced another set of roster moves on Tuesday afternoon.
Detroit signed former Carolina Panthers running back Raheem Blackshear. In a corresponding move, the Lions waived wide receiver Lawrence Keys with an injury designation.
Blackshear, 28, has played in 41 career NFL games, totaling 203 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns on 52 carries across the 2022-24 seasons with the Panthers. The 5-foot-9, 190 pound back spent last season on the Tennessee ******* ans, Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Jets' practice squads.
Keys was one of a trio of Lions that exited Monday's training camp practice to be evaluated for injury. Lions head coach Dan Campbell revealed on Tuesday morning that Keys was dealing with a hamstring injury.
Lions running back Sione Vaki also left Monday's practice early and Campbell revealed that he had suffered a broken nose. Vaki's injury has opened the door for second-year running back Jacob Saylors to see an increased role. With star running back Jahmyr Gibbs still a hold-in, the Lions had a need for another body in the backfield like Blackshear.
#keys #practice #tuesday
Detroit signed former Carolina Panthers running back Raheem Blackshear. In a corresponding move, the Lions waived wide receiver Lawrence Keys with an injury designation.
Blackshear, 28, has played in 41 career NFL games, totaling 203 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns on 52 carries across the 2022-24 seasons with the Panthers. The 5-foot-9, 190 pound back spent last season on the Tennessee ******* ans, Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Jets' practice squads.
Keys was one of a trio of Lions that exited Monday's training camp practice to be evaluated for injury. Lions head coach Dan Campbell revealed on Tuesday morning that Keys was dealing with a hamstring injury.
Lions running back Sione Vaki also left Monday's practice early and Campbell revealed that he had suffered a broken nose. Vaki's injury has opened the door for second-year running back Jacob Saylors to see an increased role. With star running back Jahmyr Gibbs still a hold-in, the Lions had a need for another body in the backfield like Blackshear.
#keys #practice #tuesday
1 month ago
With Sione Vaki injured and Jahmyr Gibbs still in a hold-in situation awaiting a new contract, the Detroit Lions are adding veteran help to their running back room.
The Lions signed former Carolina Panthers running back Raheem Blackshear after a tryout on Tuesday, Aug. 4.
Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Kylin James and former Michigan running back Hassan Haskins also took part in the workout.
LIONS OBSERVATIONS: Ahmed Hassanein spreads the love in training camp
Blackshear had 52 carries for 203 yards in three seasons with the Panthers from 2022-24, when he doubled as the team's primary kick returner. He also has spent time with the Buffalo Bills, Tennessee ***** ans, Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Jets in his NFL career.
#running #gibbs
The Lions signed former Carolina Panthers running back Raheem Blackshear after a tryout on Tuesday, Aug. 4.
Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Kylin James and former Michigan running back Hassan Haskins also took part in the workout.
LIONS OBSERVATIONS: Ahmed Hassanein spreads the love in training camp
Blackshear had 52 carries for 203 yards in three seasons with the Panthers from 2022-24, when he doubled as the team's primary kick returner. He also has spent time with the Buffalo Bills, Tennessee ***** ans, Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Jets in his NFL career.
#running #gibbs
1 month ago
With Sione Vaki injured and Jahmyr Gibbs still in a hold-in situation awaiting a new contract, the Detroit Lions are adding veteran help to their running back room.
The Lions signed former Carolina Panthers running back Raheem Blackshear after a tryout on Tuesday, Aug. 4.
Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Kylin James and former Michigan running back Hassan Haskins also took part in the workout.
LIONS OBSERVATIONS: Ahmed Hassanein spreads the love in training camp
Blackshear had 52 carries for 203 yards in three seasons with the Panthers from 2022-24, when he doubled as the team's primary kick returner. He also has spent time with the Buffalo Bills, Tennessee ****** ans, Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Jets in his NFL career.
#lions #running #back
The Lions signed former Carolina Panthers running back Raheem Blackshear after a tryout on Tuesday, Aug. 4.
Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Kylin James and former Michigan running back Hassan Haskins also took part in the workout.
LIONS OBSERVATIONS: Ahmed Hassanein spreads the love in training camp
Blackshear had 52 carries for 203 yards in three seasons with the Panthers from 2022-24, when he doubled as the team's primary kick returner. He also has spent time with the Buffalo Bills, Tennessee ****** ans, Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Jets in his NFL career.
#lions #running #back
1 month ago
The Detroit Lions have added another healthy body to their depleted backfield.
According to Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press, Detroit is signing running back and return specialist Raheem Blackshear after working him out Tuesday alongside Hassan Haskins, Clyde Edwards-Helaire and Kylin James.
The move comes after Sione Vaki suffered a broken nose during Monday's padded practice. Vaki is expected to miss a little time, while Jahmyr Gibbs has yet to participate in training camp practice.
Blackshear spent his first three NFL seasons with the Carolina Panthers after entering the league as an undrafted free agent in 2022.
His offensive workload has been limited, with 203 rushing yards, 138 receiving yards and three touchdowns across 41 games. His biggest value has come on special teams, where he returned 66 kickoffs for 1,734 yards, averaging 26.3 yards per attempt.
#free #dave
According to Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press, Detroit is signing running back and return specialist Raheem Blackshear after working him out Tuesday alongside Hassan Haskins, Clyde Edwards-Helaire and Kylin James.
The move comes after Sione Vaki suffered a broken nose during Monday's padded practice. Vaki is expected to miss a little time, while Jahmyr Gibbs has yet to participate in training camp practice.
Blackshear spent his first three NFL seasons with the Carolina Panthers after entering the league as an undrafted free agent in 2022.
His offensive workload has been limited, with 203 rushing yards, 138 receiving yards and three touchdowns across 41 games. His biggest value has come on special teams, where he returned 66 kickoffs for 1,734 yards, averaging 26.3 yards per attempt.
#free #dave
1 month ago
The San Francisco 49ers defense could get a significant lift from an unlikely source thanks to new defensive coordinator Raheem Morris.
Entering last season it looked like 49ers safety Ji'Ayir Brown was in a make-or-break spot. It was his third season and the 49ers looked to be ready to shift gears in the back end of their secondary with Malik Mustapha and fifth-round pick Marques Sigle. Brown struggled in 2025, but the 49ers didn't make any significant additions to their safety room in the offseason.
Brown was the starting free safety to open camp, and through the first two weeks hasn't faced any competition for that job. The 49ers' patience appears to be paying off.
It's hard to find a daily practice recap from the 49ers beat that doesn't include a tidbit about a Brown pass breakup, or a Brown interception, or a Brown near interception. By all accounts he's poised for a breakout year entering the fourth and final season of his rookie contract.
Brown on Monday in a press conference credited Morris with his turnaround and said the entire group of defensive backs is benefitting from their new defensive coordinator's scheme.
#entering #looked
Entering last season it looked like 49ers safety Ji'Ayir Brown was in a make-or-break spot. It was his third season and the 49ers looked to be ready to shift gears in the back end of their secondary with Malik Mustapha and fifth-round pick Marques Sigle. Brown struggled in 2025, but the 49ers didn't make any significant additions to their safety room in the offseason.
Brown was the starting free safety to open camp, and through the first two weeks hasn't faced any competition for that job. The 49ers' patience appears to be paying off.
It's hard to find a daily practice recap from the 49ers beat that doesn't include a tidbit about a Brown pass breakup, or a Brown interception, or a Brown near interception. By all accounts he's poised for a breakout year entering the fourth and final season of his rookie contract.
Brown on Monday in a press conference credited Morris with his turnaround and said the entire group of defensive backs is benefitting from their new defensive coordinator's scheme.
#entering #looked
1 month ago
Congratulations to Red Lion Christian's Raheem Spencer Jr., who received the most votes in the Delaware Online preseason poll for the best defensive back in Delaware high school football, presented by Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists.
Spencer won an online vote over seven other nominees. Check out the nominees for the preseason top football player at different positions each Monday on Delaware Online and vote for your favorite. Voting is free and unlimited and runs Monday through Thursday, with the weekly winner announced each Friday.
DELAWARE HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL: Middletown blocker wins preseason vote as best offensive lineman
Contact high school sports reporter Brad Myers at bmyersdelawareonline.com. Follow on X: BradMyersTNJ. Follow us on Instagram: DEGameDay
This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Red Lion Christian star wins preseason vote as best DB in Delaware HS football, presented by Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists
#spencer
Spencer won an online vote over seven other nominees. Check out the nominees for the preseason top football player at different positions each Monday on Delaware Online and vote for your favorite. Voting is free and unlimited and runs Monday through Thursday, with the weekly winner announced each Friday.
DELAWARE HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL: Middletown blocker wins preseason vote as best offensive lineman
Contact high school sports reporter Brad Myers at bmyersdelawareonline.com. Follow on X: BradMyersTNJ. Follow us on Instagram: DEGameDay
This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Red Lion Christian star wins preseason vote as best DB in Delaware HS football, presented by Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists
#spencer
2 months ago
The Vita Vea sweepstakes could be heating up. With reports that the disgruntled Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle requested a trade and would prefer a team based in California, rumors are swirling about a potential San Francisco 49ers connection. ESPN's Jeremy Fowler added more fuel to that fire when he listed the 49ers among five potential trade fits for Vea.
San Francisco's pass-rush numbers make the interest easy to understand, as well as the team's salary cap situation. The 49ers had a league-low 20 sacks in 2025, and Vea has 11.5 sacks over the past two seasons. For his career, Vea has piled up 35 sacks, 34 tackles and seven tackles for loss last season alone, along with 13 quarterback hits, numbers that have made him a two-time Pro Bowler over his eight seasons in Tampa.
One wrinkle worth noting: the 49ers don't run a base 3-4 front like several of Vea's other reported fits, so his usage in Raheem Morris's scheme could look different than in Tampa Bay's system.
The 49ers are sitting on roughly $71 million in cap ****** e, and for the first time in a while, they aren't staring down a looming extension for a homegrown star, giving them room to be aggressive if they wanted to bid.
There's also a geographic pull. Vea grew up in the Stanford, California, area and played at Milpitas High School just miles from Levi's Stadium. Additionally, it would reunite Vea with ex-Buccaneers star Mike Evans. They played eight years together from 2018 to 2025.
#tampa #sacks #numbers #tackles
San Francisco's pass-rush numbers make the interest easy to understand, as well as the team's salary cap situation. The 49ers had a league-low 20 sacks in 2025, and Vea has 11.5 sacks over the past two seasons. For his career, Vea has piled up 35 sacks, 34 tackles and seven tackles for loss last season alone, along with 13 quarterback hits, numbers that have made him a two-time Pro Bowler over his eight seasons in Tampa.
One wrinkle worth noting: the 49ers don't run a base 3-4 front like several of Vea's other reported fits, so his usage in Raheem Morris's scheme could look different than in Tampa Bay's system.
The 49ers are sitting on roughly $71 million in cap ****** e, and for the first time in a while, they aren't staring down a looming extension for a homegrown star, giving them room to be aggressive if they wanted to bid.
There's also a geographic pull. Vea grew up in the Stanford, California, area and played at Milpitas High School just miles from Levi's Stadium. Additionally, it would reunite Vea with ex-Buccaneers star Mike Evans. They played eight years together from 2018 to 2025.
#tampa #sacks #numbers #tackles
2 months ago
Kylian Mbappe is having himself an incredible World Cup. The French star is currently tied with Lionel for the lead in the Golden Boot race with eight goals through his country's first eight matches. While there's something special about what he does with the ball at his feet, it's also worth discussing what he does when he's just out there running around.
A lot was made earlier this week about the way that Norway's Erling Haaland moves slowly to set up his attacks, but maybe we should instead be focusing on the speed with which Mbappe does the same. On the play where Mbappe earned a penalty kick in the first half he was absolutely flying. Watching him accelerate and run past defenders it looked like he was running very fast and it turns out, he was.
MORE: Spurned goalie tosses ball at Kylian Mbappe after France beats Paraguay
Mbappe was measured at 37.6 kilometers per hour during the match. It was the fastest recorded speed of anyone at the 2026 World Cup.
That's impressive. But when you Americanize those numbers and convert them to miles per hour you'll find out Mbappe was running 23.36 mph. Below is Raheem Mostert running 23.1 mph back in 2020. Tyreek Hill's top recorded speed in 23.24 mph back in 2017. Basically, in that video up there, that is about the fastest we've ever seen anyone run in a professional team sport.
A lot was made earlier this week about the way that Norway's Erling Haaland moves slowly to set up his attacks, but maybe we should instead be focusing on the speed with which Mbappe does the same. On the play where Mbappe earned a penalty kick in the first half he was absolutely flying. Watching him accelerate and run past defenders it looked like he was running very fast and it turns out, he was.
MORE: Spurned goalie tosses ball at Kylian Mbappe after France beats Paraguay
Mbappe was measured at 37.6 kilometers per hour during the match. It was the fastest recorded speed of anyone at the 2026 World Cup.
That's impressive. But when you Americanize those numbers and convert them to miles per hour you'll find out Mbappe was running 23.36 mph. Below is Raheem Mostert running 23.1 mph back in 2020. Tyreek Hill's top recorded speed in 23.24 mph back in 2017. Basically, in that video up there, that is about the fastest we've ever seen anyone run in a professional team sport.
2 months ago
ESPN’s Benjamin Solak went through breakout candidates for each team. For the San Francisco 49ers, he chose second-year cornerback Upton Stout:
The 49ers’ defense was young, raw and outmatched for much of last season, so it can be tough to find the diamond in the rough. But that diamond is Stout, a third-rounder who started in the slot — a taxing position to master mentally — and kept his head above water.
Stout got burned plenty as a risk taker, but he didn’t make the same mistakes over and over again. He’ll never dominate with pass breakups given his 5-foot-9, 181-pound size, but he has stopping power as a tackler and creates opportunities for his teammates to finish off run plays by penetrating and disrupting. He’ll stick around in the league for a long, long time as he fully gets up to the mental speed of the game.
Stout allowed nearly 78 percent of his targets to be completed. And there was no shortage of those, as he was targeted 18.2 percent of the time last season. According to Next Gen Stats, he allowed an average of 3.8 yards of separation. Stout also allowed a 103.2 rating and an additional 4.8 yards after the catch. It goes without saying that there’s room for improvement in the coverage aspect.
Stout will make his presence felt as a pass rusher in his second year. He only rushed the passer 39 times as a rookie. That number should triple under Raheem Morris. He generated a 23.1 pressure percentage. Eight of those were of the quick variety. Stout’s average time to pressure was 2.13 seconds. That’s a weapon that needs to be used more. Despite the low blitz volume, Stout finished eighth in quick pressures as a rookie.
The 49ers’ defense was young, raw and outmatched for much of last season, so it can be tough to find the diamond in the rough. But that diamond is Stout, a third-rounder who started in the slot — a taxing position to master mentally — and kept his head above water.
Stout got burned plenty as a risk taker, but he didn’t make the same mistakes over and over again. He’ll never dominate with pass breakups given his 5-foot-9, 181-pound size, but he has stopping power as a tackler and creates opportunities for his teammates to finish off run plays by penetrating and disrupting. He’ll stick around in the league for a long, long time as he fully gets up to the mental speed of the game.
Stout allowed nearly 78 percent of his targets to be completed. And there was no shortage of those, as he was targeted 18.2 percent of the time last season. According to Next Gen Stats, he allowed an average of 3.8 yards of separation. Stout also allowed a 103.2 rating and an additional 4.8 yards after the catch. It goes without saying that there’s room for improvement in the coverage aspect.
Stout will make his presence felt as a pass rusher in his second year. He only rushed the passer 39 times as a rookie. That number should triple under Raheem Morris. He generated a 23.1 pressure percentage. Eight of those were of the quick variety. Stout’s average time to pressure was 2.13 seconds. That’s a weapon that needs to be used more. Despite the low blitz volume, Stout finished eighth in quick pressures as a rookie.
2 months ago
Florida football landed its No. 26 commitment of the 2027 cycle on Tuesday when four-star cornerback Raheem Floyd chose the Gators over their conference rival, the Missouri Tigers.
The Prairie State native credited Florida's culture under new head coach Jon Sumrall as a factor that catapulted the program to No. 1 on his list. His pledge comes less than a month after defensive backs coach Brandon Harris hosted Floyd in Gainesville for an official visit.
The 6-foot, 175-pound prospect is a top 200 recruit according to Rivals and brings elite instincts and closing speed to the Gators' secondary. These attributes helped the blue-chipper garner MVP honors at Nike's premier, invite-only, national recruiting camp, The Opening. His signing gives Brad White's defense five incoming four-star defensive backs. At No. 170, Floyd is the highest-ranked among the group, which also includes four-star Aamaury Fountain (No. 193) and four-star Amare Nugent (No. 199).
During his junior season at East St. Louis, Floyd recorded 55 tackles and 14 pass breakups to go along with one interception over 11 games. Over the course of his career, Floyd has earned a reputation as a shutdown corner, with many opposing quarterbacks opting not to throw the ball in his direction.
The addition of Floyd will likely elevate the Gators' team ranking as the cycle draws to a close. Florida currently sits at No. 5 on 247Sports' SEC rankings and boasts 17 blue-chip commitments.
The Prairie State native credited Florida's culture under new head coach Jon Sumrall as a factor that catapulted the program to No. 1 on his list. His pledge comes less than a month after defensive backs coach Brandon Harris hosted Floyd in Gainesville for an official visit.
The 6-foot, 175-pound prospect is a top 200 recruit according to Rivals and brings elite instincts and closing speed to the Gators' secondary. These attributes helped the blue-chipper garner MVP honors at Nike's premier, invite-only, national recruiting camp, The Opening. His signing gives Brad White's defense five incoming four-star defensive backs. At No. 170, Floyd is the highest-ranked among the group, which also includes four-star Aamaury Fountain (No. 193) and four-star Amare Nugent (No. 199).
During his junior season at East St. Louis, Floyd recorded 55 tackles and 14 pass breakups to go along with one interception over 11 games. Over the course of his career, Floyd has earned a reputation as a shutdown corner, with many opposing quarterbacks opting not to throw the ball in his direction.
The addition of Floyd will likely elevate the Gators' team ranking as the cycle draws to a close. Florida currently sits at No. 5 on 247Sports' SEC rankings and boasts 17 blue-chip commitments.
2 months ago
As nice as it was for the Atlanta Falcons to beat the Buffalo Bills and Los Angeles Rams last season, and as encouraging as it was for them to win their last four games, it also showed something had to change.
Being the type of team that could beat the Bills and Rams yet finish 8-9 in one of the worst divisions in NFL history was a glaring sign of underachievement. Many teams might have stuck it out with head coach Raheem Morris after that final four-game winning streak. The Falcons rightfully wondered where that level of play had been all season and fired Morris. They hired Kevin Stefanski, who had just been fired by the Cleveland Browns, to replace him.
"At the end of the day, I didn't think we achieved the level that we're capable of," Falcons owner Arthur Blank said, via the team's site. "The expression that I often use is: Good is the enemy of great. I think we're capable of getting to another level."
The Falcons are a conundrum. They have some very talented players, including running back Bijan Robinson and receiver Drake London, who just signed a four-year, $141 million extension. They also have plenty of holes on offense around those stars. The defense was better last season but probably won't be good enough to carry the team where it wants to go. Things got murkier on that side of the ball when 2025 first-round draft pick James Pearce Jr. was charged with multiple felonies after Pearce allegedly stalked WNBA player Rickea Jackson and caused a collision as Pearce pursued Jackson in a car (those charges can be dropped if Pearce completes an intervention program, though he still could face NFL punishment).
And the quarterback situation went from promising to a complete mess in a year. The Falcons thought they were onto something with Michael Penix Jr. after a fairly good finish to the 2024 season. Then Penix struggled and his season came to an end when he suffered a knee injury that led to ACL reconstruction surgery, continuing his spotty health history dating back to college. The Falcons got Tua Tagovailoa cheaply as the Dolphins pay all but the veteran's minimum portion of his salary this season, but Tagovailoa's play has fallen off the past two seasons. It's worth the $1.2 million the Falcons are paying to see if Tagovailoa can be a reliable insurance policy, but it's not like Atlanta should expect much more.
Being the type of team that could beat the Bills and Rams yet finish 8-9 in one of the worst divisions in NFL history was a glaring sign of underachievement. Many teams might have stuck it out with head coach Raheem Morris after that final four-game winning streak. The Falcons rightfully wondered where that level of play had been all season and fired Morris. They hired Kevin Stefanski, who had just been fired by the Cleveland Browns, to replace him.
"At the end of the day, I didn't think we achieved the level that we're capable of," Falcons owner Arthur Blank said, via the team's site. "The expression that I often use is: Good is the enemy of great. I think we're capable of getting to another level."
The Falcons are a conundrum. They have some very talented players, including running back Bijan Robinson and receiver Drake London, who just signed a four-year, $141 million extension. They also have plenty of holes on offense around those stars. The defense was better last season but probably won't be good enough to carry the team where it wants to go. Things got murkier on that side of the ball when 2025 first-round draft pick James Pearce Jr. was charged with multiple felonies after Pearce allegedly stalked WNBA player Rickea Jackson and caused a collision as Pearce pursued Jackson in a car (those charges can be dropped if Pearce completes an intervention program, though he still could face NFL punishment).
And the quarterback situation went from promising to a complete mess in a year. The Falcons thought they were onto something with Michael Penix Jr. after a fairly good finish to the 2024 season. Then Penix struggled and his season came to an end when he suffered a knee injury that led to ACL reconstruction surgery, continuing his spotty health history dating back to college. The Falcons got Tua Tagovailoa cheaply as the Dolphins pay all but the veteran's minimum portion of his salary this season, but Tagovailoa's play has fallen off the past two seasons. It's worth the $1.2 million the Falcons are paying to see if Tagovailoa can be a reliable insurance policy, but it's not like Atlanta should expect much more.
