6 hours ago
The UCLA Bruins defeated the San Diego State Aztecs 28-10 in their home opener at the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, Calif. on Sept. 12.
The Bruins were held scoreless for the first half of the game, but took the lead in the third and blew up in the fourth to steamroll the Aztecs. UCLA head coach Bob Chesney was able to keep his team together yet again as he leaves his first home opener in the Rose Bowl triumphant. Here were five takeaways from the Week 2 performance.
The Bruins defense defended their den viciously for the season opener as they held the Aztecs scoreless for the first three quarters of play. San Diego State's lone touchdown came on the defense's worse drive of the game that was filled with penalties that led the Aztecs down the field and into the endzone.
Nonetheless, the defense was the strongest side of the ball for the majority of the game as they held the Aztecs to just 45-passing yards, had two sacks, six tackles-for-loss and an interception that was snagged by senior linebacker Jalen Woods.
FIRST CAREER INT FOR J-9! 💪
📺: BigTenNetwork
📲: https://t.co/rVIspx5dud pic.twitter.com/4ODHkrh5SV
#aztecs #opener #ucla #bowl
The Bruins were held scoreless for the first half of the game, but took the lead in the third and blew up in the fourth to steamroll the Aztecs. UCLA head coach Bob Chesney was able to keep his team together yet again as he leaves his first home opener in the Rose Bowl triumphant. Here were five takeaways from the Week 2 performance.
The Bruins defense defended their den viciously for the season opener as they held the Aztecs scoreless for the first three quarters of play. San Diego State's lone touchdown came on the defense's worse drive of the game that was filled with penalties that led the Aztecs down the field and into the endzone.
Nonetheless, the defense was the strongest side of the ball for the majority of the game as they held the Aztecs to just 45-passing yards, had two sacks, six tackles-for-loss and an interception that was snagged by senior linebacker Jalen Woods.
FIRST CAREER INT FOR J-9! 💪
📺: BigTenNetwork
📲: https://t.co/rVIspx5dud pic.twitter.com/4ODHkrh5SV
#aztecs #opener #ucla #bowl
11 hours ago
One of the biggest and most controversial trades happened this offseason when the L.A. Rams traded for Myles Garrett. The organization entered the season with more expectations than ever, but its campaign began in embarrassing fashion, as the San Francisco 49ers dominated the Rams 27–7 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia.
Jun 2, 2026; Woodland Hills, CA, USA; Los Angeles Rams defensive end Myles Garrett (95) poses with general manager Les Snead (left) and coach Sean McVay at press conference at Rams Practice Facility. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
The fans were disappointed with star pass rusher Myles Garrett, as his performance was really disappointing and he made virtually no impact in his Rams debut.
During a recent episode of "The Odd Couple," Fox Sports Radio host Rob Parker criticized several members of the Rams before turning his attention to the former Cleveland Browns star and saying:
"Myles Garrett was so terrible. He was a zero. He had nothing. Go look in the box score. His name's not even in there. You know why? He didn't do anything. No pressures. No sacks. No tackles. Nothing—not even a half tackle. Nothing. I would have rather had Mrs. Garrett from 'The Facts of Life' than Myles Garrett on my football team last night. That's how bad it was."
#Rams
Jun 2, 2026; Woodland Hills, CA, USA; Los Angeles Rams defensive end Myles Garrett (95) poses with general manager Les Snead (left) and coach Sean McVay at press conference at Rams Practice Facility. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
The fans were disappointed with star pass rusher Myles Garrett, as his performance was really disappointing and he made virtually no impact in his Rams debut.
During a recent episode of "The Odd Couple," Fox Sports Radio host Rob Parker criticized several members of the Rams before turning his attention to the former Cleveland Browns star and saying:
"Myles Garrett was so terrible. He was a zero. He had nothing. Go look in the box score. His name's not even in there. You know why? He didn't do anything. No pressures. No sacks. No tackles. Nothing—not even a half tackle. Nothing. I would have rather had Mrs. Garrett from 'The Facts of Life' than Myles Garrett on my football team last night. That's how bad it was."
#Rams
12 hours ago
Michigan improved to 2-0 on Saturday afternoon, beating Oklahoma 17-10.
Here are key takeaways from Michigan's win.
Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood was just 9-of-17 passing for 111 yards and was marginally better throwing the ball than he was in Week 1. However, he did some great things on the ground, including a 38-yard rushing touchdown to put Michigan up 7-0. In all, Underwood had 87 yards on the ground and the score. Underwood will have to improve passing. While Michigan should continue to lean on what he does best (running), that approach is bound to be stopped on a given week; the defense will give up more than 10 points, and Underwood's arm will decide if Michigan loses. Today was a step in the right direction; he didn't throw an interception despite a couple near picks. Even so, Michigan has a lot of tough games coming up this season (Penn State, Indiana, Oregon, Ohio State) and improvement is necessary through the air.
Michigan had 11 penalties for 90 yards, and many of these extended drives for Oklahoma. Jyaire Hill had a late hit, Dom Nichols ripped John Mateer's helmet off, Shamari Earls had a facemask penalty. Eliminating penalties was a point of emphasis heading into this game, but the team failed to follow the message that head coach Kyle Whittingham had. Michigan's lucky that all the yellow flags didn't cost them the game — because they nearly did.
Michigan held Oklahoma to just 289 yards and 3-of-13 on third down. Defensive end John Henry Daley (eight tackles, one sack) was an absolute force and disrupted Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer's timing, as was defensive end Dom Nichols (0.5 sacks). Linebackers such as Troy Bowles (nine tackles) and Nathaniel Staehling (seven tackles) played well, and safety Chris Bracy (six tackles) delivered hard hits throughout the game. It was a cohesive effort (besides the penalties).
#michigan #oklahoma #game #state
Here are key takeaways from Michigan's win.
Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood was just 9-of-17 passing for 111 yards and was marginally better throwing the ball than he was in Week 1. However, he did some great things on the ground, including a 38-yard rushing touchdown to put Michigan up 7-0. In all, Underwood had 87 yards on the ground and the score. Underwood will have to improve passing. While Michigan should continue to lean on what he does best (running), that approach is bound to be stopped on a given week; the defense will give up more than 10 points, and Underwood's arm will decide if Michigan loses. Today was a step in the right direction; he didn't throw an interception despite a couple near picks. Even so, Michigan has a lot of tough games coming up this season (Penn State, Indiana, Oregon, Ohio State) and improvement is necessary through the air.
Michigan had 11 penalties for 90 yards, and many of these extended drives for Oklahoma. Jyaire Hill had a late hit, Dom Nichols ripped John Mateer's helmet off, Shamari Earls had a facemask penalty. Eliminating penalties was a point of emphasis heading into this game, but the team failed to follow the message that head coach Kyle Whittingham had. Michigan's lucky that all the yellow flags didn't cost them the game — because they nearly did.
Michigan held Oklahoma to just 289 yards and 3-of-13 on third down. Defensive end John Henry Daley (eight tackles, one sack) was an absolute force and disrupted Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer's timing, as was defensive end Dom Nichols (0.5 sacks). Linebackers such as Troy Bowles (nine tackles) and Nathaniel Staehling (seven tackles) played well, and safety Chris Bracy (six tackles) delivered hard hits throughout the game. It was a cohesive effort (besides the penalties).
#michigan #oklahoma #game #state
17 hours ago
One more sleep until the Green Bay Packers take on the Minnesota Vikings at US Bank Stadium. Until then, let's dive into some prospects Packers fans should keep tabs on during the Week 2 slate of the college football season.
With the Packers expected to have a heavy presence at the Mississippi State at Minnesota game, we'll start with the SEC vs. Big 10 matchup.
Ashton Beers, iOL: Beers fits what the Packers look for in interior lineman. The Gophers starting center has 14 starts at center, seven at right guard and two at left guard to his name. He also has taken snaps at left tackle. With his position versatility, size (6-6, 320) and football acumen, Beers could be a target for the Packers on Day 3 of the 2027 NFL Draft.
Jaray Bledsoe, DT, Mississippi State: Bledsoe is an active interior presence. Last week the former Texas transfer recorded 1.5 tackles for loss after he recorded 5.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks last season. The 6-4, 290 pound defensive tackle will face a tough test against Minnesota's interior offensive line that boasts potential first-round pick Greg Johnson and Beers.
John Walker, DT, Ohio State: A month ago if you were to discuss the Ohio State defensive tackles, you'd likely hear the names James Smith and Eddrick Houston and for good reason, both prospects are fine players. Houston looked like an immovable object last week against Ball State. John Walker though was the defensive tackle that caught my attention. He showed good initial quickness off the snap and power to make an impact against the run and impact the timing of the quarterback. I charted him with a pair of run stops and two pressures.
#defensive #minnesota
With the Packers expected to have a heavy presence at the Mississippi State at Minnesota game, we'll start with the SEC vs. Big 10 matchup.
Ashton Beers, iOL: Beers fits what the Packers look for in interior lineman. The Gophers starting center has 14 starts at center, seven at right guard and two at left guard to his name. He also has taken snaps at left tackle. With his position versatility, size (6-6, 320) and football acumen, Beers could be a target for the Packers on Day 3 of the 2027 NFL Draft.
Jaray Bledsoe, DT, Mississippi State: Bledsoe is an active interior presence. Last week the former Texas transfer recorded 1.5 tackles for loss after he recorded 5.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks last season. The 6-4, 290 pound defensive tackle will face a tough test against Minnesota's interior offensive line that boasts potential first-round pick Greg Johnson and Beers.
John Walker, DT, Ohio State: A month ago if you were to discuss the Ohio State defensive tackles, you'd likely hear the names James Smith and Eddrick Houston and for good reason, both prospects are fine players. Houston looked like an immovable object last week against Ball State. John Walker though was the defensive tackle that caught my attention. He showed good initial quickness off the snap and power to make an impact against the run and impact the timing of the quarterback. I charted him with a pair of run stops and two pressures.
#defensive #minnesota
18 hours ago
After nearly two decades of head coach Mike Tomlin, the Pittsburgh Steelers are starting over with new head coach Mike McCarthy, a whole new system and several new starters. Optimism is high and fans feel like there's been a new energy with the team and so let's offer up our own bold predictions for the upcoming season.
We aren't ready to name the two players but between the team's three big edge defenders and defensive linemen Cam Heyward and Derrick Harmon, we predict the Steelers to get at least two players with 10+ sacks.
Time is almost out for Joey Porter Jr. to agree to terms on a contract with the Steelers but we predict Porter Jr. still plays in 2026, even if it is on his rookie contract.
Between Jaylen Warren and Rico Dowdle, the Steelers have a very good two-headed running back attack. And while we think the run game will be effective, we don't see either player eclipsing 1,000 rushing yards individually.
With the team's new additions, we predict DK Metcalf will reap the benefits with his best season. Metcalf's career high in receptions is 90 and his receiving yards are 1,303. We predict Metcalf tops both this season.
#season #mike #players
We aren't ready to name the two players but between the team's three big edge defenders and defensive linemen Cam Heyward and Derrick Harmon, we predict the Steelers to get at least two players with 10+ sacks.
Time is almost out for Joey Porter Jr. to agree to terms on a contract with the Steelers but we predict Porter Jr. still plays in 2026, even if it is on his rookie contract.
Between Jaylen Warren and Rico Dowdle, the Steelers have a very good two-headed running back attack. And while we think the run game will be effective, we don't see either player eclipsing 1,000 rushing yards individually.
With the team's new additions, we predict DK Metcalf will reap the benefits with his best season. Metcalf's career high in receptions is 90 and his receiving yards are 1,303. We predict Metcalf tops both this season.
#season #mike #players
19 hours ago
The Buffalo Bills will visit the Houston Texans at Reliant Stadium on Sunday with an important win on the line. Come the end of the season, these early-year victories come in handy.
For this AFC battle between Joe Brady's Bills and DeMeco Ryan's, it will be the games, within the game, that will make all the difference.
Here are Bills Wire's three key matchup to watch Week 15's Bills vs. Texans matchup in Week 1:
Anderson led the line for a Texans defense that beat up Bills quarterback Josh Allen when these two teams faced off last season. Anderson had 2.5 sacks and the Texans had eight as a team. Brown needs to be a lot better against him in 2026. Brown has noted that he was playing through injury last year.
Expectations are high for Moore's debut with the Bills. Can he be the top playmaker Buffalo's offense has lacked in recent years? If he is, Moore will have a tough task to show it. Stingley is a two-time All-Pro defensive back and will probably follow Moore around all game.
#bills #moore #come #year
For this AFC battle between Joe Brady's Bills and DeMeco Ryan's, it will be the games, within the game, that will make all the difference.
Here are Bills Wire's three key matchup to watch Week 15's Bills vs. Texans matchup in Week 1:
Anderson led the line for a Texans defense that beat up Bills quarterback Josh Allen when these two teams faced off last season. Anderson had 2.5 sacks and the Texans had eight as a team. Brown needs to be a lot better against him in 2026. Brown has noted that he was playing through injury last year.
Expectations are high for Moore's debut with the Bills. Can he be the top playmaker Buffalo's offense has lacked in recent years? If he is, Moore will have a tough task to show it. Stingley is a two-time All-Pro defensive back and will probably follow Moore around all game.
#bills #moore #come #year
2 days ago
Both the Steelers and the Falcons have new coaching staffs heading into Week 1. It's safe to say both franchises will be looking to start their new era off on the right foot with a victory. I spoke with Kevin Knight of The Falcoholic to learn a bit about what's new with the Atlanta Falcons.
Kevin Knight: Well, now even Tua Tagovailoa is out of the lineup thanks to an oblique injury suffered during individual drills on Thursday. That means Cooper Rush at the helm (who, in truth, may not be any worse than Tua based on the aforementioned preseason). What you're going to see is a lot of quick game, and as much Bijan Robinson as the team can muster. If Atlanta can run the ball well and get Bijan going, they can score points. So that'll be the plan, with the passing game largely taking a complementary role until Michael Penix Jr. returns.
Kevin Knight: This is a good defense that will have to find ways to manufacture pass rush. Thankfully, Jeff Ulbrich is an evil genius with his blitz packages, and he's got a lot of interesting looks planned. Expect to see a lot of linebacker and slot blitzes to supplement their weaker edge rusher room, along with a lot of emphasis on interior pass rush. Atlanta has a really nice interior duo with Brandon Dorlus (who was leading all interior defensive linemen in the NFC with 8.5 sacks last season before injury) and trade acquisition Gervon Dexter Sr. They're hoping the interior can offset some of their weaknesses outside.
Kevin Knight: I like Kevin Stefanski and think it pretty much takes a miracle worker to extract any amount of success from the Cleveland Browns organization. It does seem like there's a coherent, forward-thinking plan in place for this Falcons team for the first time in years. I don't necessarily expect a lot of success in 2026 based on the moves made to this point and the way the team is structured, but I do expect Atlanta to be one of the most aggressive teams in free agency and the draft in 2027.
Kevin Knight: As I mentioned before, Brandon Dorlus is a borderline-elite interior pass rusher who may also get some run on the edge. Linebacker Divine Deablo was the biggest surprise in last year's free agent class and completely transformed the defense when he was on the field. Second-year safety Xavier Watts was a DROY candidate in 2025 and forms a dynamic duo with veteran Jessie Bates III. Atlanta will be starting two rookies on defense: Avieon Terrell (brother of A.J. Terrell) in the slot, and Kendal Daniels at linebacker. Both impressed in training camp, with Daniels being a particularly pleasant surprise given his Day 3 selection.
#expect
Kevin Knight: Well, now even Tua Tagovailoa is out of the lineup thanks to an oblique injury suffered during individual drills on Thursday. That means Cooper Rush at the helm (who, in truth, may not be any worse than Tua based on the aforementioned preseason). What you're going to see is a lot of quick game, and as much Bijan Robinson as the team can muster. If Atlanta can run the ball well and get Bijan going, they can score points. So that'll be the plan, with the passing game largely taking a complementary role until Michael Penix Jr. returns.
Kevin Knight: This is a good defense that will have to find ways to manufacture pass rush. Thankfully, Jeff Ulbrich is an evil genius with his blitz packages, and he's got a lot of interesting looks planned. Expect to see a lot of linebacker and slot blitzes to supplement their weaker edge rusher room, along with a lot of emphasis on interior pass rush. Atlanta has a really nice interior duo with Brandon Dorlus (who was leading all interior defensive linemen in the NFC with 8.5 sacks last season before injury) and trade acquisition Gervon Dexter Sr. They're hoping the interior can offset some of their weaknesses outside.
Kevin Knight: I like Kevin Stefanski and think it pretty much takes a miracle worker to extract any amount of success from the Cleveland Browns organization. It does seem like there's a coherent, forward-thinking plan in place for this Falcons team for the first time in years. I don't necessarily expect a lot of success in 2026 based on the moves made to this point and the way the team is structured, but I do expect Atlanta to be one of the most aggressive teams in free agency and the draft in 2027.
Kevin Knight: As I mentioned before, Brandon Dorlus is a borderline-elite interior pass rusher who may also get some run on the edge. Linebacker Divine Deablo was the biggest surprise in last year's free agent class and completely transformed the defense when he was on the field. Second-year safety Xavier Watts was a DROY candidate in 2025 and forms a dynamic duo with veteran Jessie Bates III. Atlanta will be starting two rookies on defense: Avieon Terrell (brother of A.J. Terrell) in the slot, and Kendal Daniels at linebacker. Both impressed in training camp, with Daniels being a particularly pleasant surprise given his Day 3 selection.
#expect
2 days ago
Carole Radziwill is opening up about a famous family heirloom that came with an unexpected story.
The What Remains author, 63, shared the story during an appearance on Haley Sacks' Financial Tea podcast, on Thursday, September 10. "I did inherit Jackie Kennedy's Cartier watch. I ended up selling it at auction," Carole said
After Sacks suggested the watch was "cursed," Carole explained, "There was something about that watch that linked all of us — Jackie Kennedy in the '60s, me in the '90s, and then my best friend in the 2010s — and all three were widowed in their 30s."
Carole was married to Anthony Radziwill, Kennedy Onassis' nephew and John F. Kennedy Jr.'s first cousin, from 1994 until his death from cancer in August 1999. JFK Jr. and his wife, Carolyn Bessette, died in a plane crash the previous month.
During her appearance on Financial Tea, the Real Housewives of New York City star admitted she eventually decided to auction the watch at Christie's because she hoped Cartier would buy it back.
#jackie
The What Remains author, 63, shared the story during an appearance on Haley Sacks' Financial Tea podcast, on Thursday, September 10. "I did inherit Jackie Kennedy's Cartier watch. I ended up selling it at auction," Carole said
After Sacks suggested the watch was "cursed," Carole explained, "There was something about that watch that linked all of us — Jackie Kennedy in the '60s, me in the '90s, and then my best friend in the 2010s — and all three were widowed in their 30s."
Carole was married to Anthony Radziwill, Kennedy Onassis' nephew and John F. Kennedy Jr.'s first cousin, from 1994 until his death from cancer in August 1999. JFK Jr. and his wife, Carolyn Bessette, died in a plane crash the previous month.
During her appearance on Financial Tea, the Real Housewives of New York City star admitted she eventually decided to auction the watch at Christie's because she hoped Cartier would buy it back.
#jackie
2 days ago
Michigan defensive end Dom Nichols understands exactly what John Mateer can do when a pass rush loses containment.
He saw it last September.
Mateer threw for 270 yards and added 74 more on the ground while accounting for three touchdowns in Oklahoma's 24-13 victory over Michigan. The Wolverines will get another shot at the Sooners on Saturday, and Nichols is not being subtle about what he expects when Mateer tries to escape the pocket this time.
"He's not getting away from me," Nichols said this week.
There is some bite behind the confidence. Nichols opened the 2026 season with nine tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks against Western Michigan, emerging as one of the few uncomplicated positives from Michigan's shaky 13-12 victory.
#victory #john #september #saturday
He saw it last September.
Mateer threw for 270 yards and added 74 more on the ground while accounting for three touchdowns in Oklahoma's 24-13 victory over Michigan. The Wolverines will get another shot at the Sooners on Saturday, and Nichols is not being subtle about what he expects when Mateer tries to escape the pocket this time.
"He's not getting away from me," Nichols said this week.
There is some bite behind the confidence. Nichols opened the 2026 season with nine tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks against Western Michigan, emerging as one of the few uncomplicated positives from Michigan's shaky 13-12 victory.
#victory #john #september #saturday
2 days 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
3 days ago
When Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes went down with a torn ACL, there were panic-stricken takes that he might miss some or most of the 2026 season.
That didn't happen. At every step of Mahomes' recovery he has looked right on track, and it will culminate with him starting on Monday night. He made it back for Week 1, which was within the normal timetable for his injury.
Mahomes should be fine for the opener. But the Chiefs' issues around him persist.
The last thing the Chiefs want to do in Mahomes' first game back, against a very good Denver Broncos defense, is put him in harm's way. But with preferred left tackle Josh Simmons dealing with a back injury and Jaylon Moore, just signed to a two-year, $30 million deal this offseason, staying at right tackle, the Chiefs have had to scramble.
The result is that Mahomes will return and be protected by an undrafted rookie left tackle against a Broncos defense that led the NFL with 68 sacks last season. That's not ideal.
#back #Broncos
That didn't happen. At every step of Mahomes' recovery he has looked right on track, and it will culminate with him starting on Monday night. He made it back for Week 1, which was within the normal timetable for his injury.
Mahomes should be fine for the opener. But the Chiefs' issues around him persist.
The last thing the Chiefs want to do in Mahomes' first game back, against a very good Denver Broncos defense, is put him in harm's way. But with preferred left tackle Josh Simmons dealing with a back injury and Jaylon Moore, just signed to a two-year, $30 million deal this offseason, staying at right tackle, the Chiefs have had to scramble.
The result is that Mahomes will return and be protected by an undrafted rookie left tackle against a Broncos defense that led the NFL with 68 sacks last season. That's not ideal.
#back #Broncos
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3 days ago
SOUTH BEND — Forty-two weeks since suffering the second left ACL tear of his career, Notre Dame football linebacker Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa could return this week against Rice in the home opener.
"Kyngstonn's done a great job," Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman said Thursday, Sept. 10 on his Zoom update. "He's practiced well. He'd been working to the point where he can play. He's had a really good week of practice. Right now, we're optimistic he'll be able to go on Saturday and be able to help us some."
The junior standout from Inland Empire, CA wore his Shamrock Series jersey but otherwise was in civilian clothes for the season-opening win over Wisconsin on Sunday, Sept. 6.
Viliamu-Asa appeared to practice throughout August at near full capacity as he worked back from the Senior Day injury against Syracuse last Nov. 22.
A preseason All-America candidate, Viliamu-Asa averaged 40 defensive snaps per game in his 11 outings last season. He tied for fourth on the team with 48 tackles and ranked second with 7.5 tackles for loss, including three sacks.
#sept #able #season #last
"Kyngstonn's done a great job," Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman said Thursday, Sept. 10 on his Zoom update. "He's practiced well. He'd been working to the point where he can play. He's had a really good week of practice. Right now, we're optimistic he'll be able to go on Saturday and be able to help us some."
The junior standout from Inland Empire, CA wore his Shamrock Series jersey but otherwise was in civilian clothes for the season-opening win over Wisconsin on Sunday, Sept. 6.
Viliamu-Asa appeared to practice throughout August at near full capacity as he worked back from the Senior Day injury against Syracuse last Nov. 22.
A preseason All-America candidate, Viliamu-Asa averaged 40 defensive snaps per game in his 11 outings last season. He tied for fourth on the team with 48 tackles and ranked second with 7.5 tackles for loss, including three sacks.
#sept #able #season #last
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3 days ago
Drake Maye walked into Lumen Field on Wednesday night looking to open his season with a statement win over the defending Super Bowl champions. Instead, the young Patriots quarterback endured one of the toughest nights of his career.
Maye completed 23 of 33 passes for 178 yards and a touchdown, but three interceptions and three sacks piled up as New England fell 13-10 to the Seattle Seahawks. Still, Maye showed his toughness on the ground, carrying the ball seven times for 47 yards.
One of those runs turned into a scary moment. In the first quarter, as Maye stepped out of bounds, Seahawks linebacker Derick Hall shoved him well after the play had ended.
MORE: Drake Maye, Patriots set unwanted NFL record against Seahawks
New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye (10) took a hit against the Seattle Seahawks. Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images
#maye #england #three
Maye completed 23 of 33 passes for 178 yards and a touchdown, but three interceptions and three sacks piled up as New England fell 13-10 to the Seattle Seahawks. Still, Maye showed his toughness on the ground, carrying the ball seven times for 47 yards.
One of those runs turned into a scary moment. In the first quarter, as Maye stepped out of bounds, Seahawks linebacker Derick Hall shoved him well after the play had ended.
MORE: Drake Maye, Patriots set unwanted NFL record against Seahawks
New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye (10) took a hit against the Seattle Seahawks. Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images
#maye #england #three
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5 days ago
Brandon Graham is retiring from the NFL again, officially ending one of the most accomplished and beloved careers in Philadelphia Eagles history.
Graham announced his retirement Tuesday after 16 seasons, according to Zach Berman of The Athletic. The 38-year-old spent his entire career with Philadelphia, becoming a two-time Super Bowl champion and the longest-tenured player in franchise history . Graham retired following the Eagles' Super Bowl win over the Patriots after 15 seasons in the NFL, but Philadelphia convinced him to return from retirement last October. He recorded three sacks and eight tackles in nine games and played a handful of snaps on the interior to help replace an injured Jalen Carter.
His two-sack performance against the Las Vegas Raiders made him the oldest player in Eagles history to record a sack.
Philadelphia released Graham in June in what was described as a procedural move, leaving open the possibility of another return. Graham expressed interest in playing a 17th season and participating in a full training camp, but the Eagles entered September with a younger and deeper group of edge defenders.
The No. 13 overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft, Graham appeared in 215 regular-season games and recorded 79.5 sacks and 128 tackles for loss. His career required patience after early injuries and criticism, but he eventually developed into one of the franchise's most dependable defenders and respected leaders.
#Retirement
Graham announced his retirement Tuesday after 16 seasons, according to Zach Berman of The Athletic. The 38-year-old spent his entire career with Philadelphia, becoming a two-time Super Bowl champion and the longest-tenured player in franchise history . Graham retired following the Eagles' Super Bowl win over the Patriots after 15 seasons in the NFL, but Philadelphia convinced him to return from retirement last October. He recorded three sacks and eight tackles in nine games and played a handful of snaps on the interior to help replace an injured Jalen Carter.
His two-sack performance against the Las Vegas Raiders made him the oldest player in Eagles history to record a sack.
Philadelphia released Graham in June in what was described as a procedural move, leaving open the possibility of another return. Graham expressed interest in playing a 17th season and participating in a full training camp, but the Eagles entered September with a younger and deeper group of edge defenders.
The No. 13 overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft, Graham appeared in 215 regular-season games and recorded 79.5 sacks and 128 tackles for loss. His career required patience after early injuries and criticism, but he eventually developed into one of the franchise's most dependable defenders and respected leaders.
#Retirement
5 days ago
Brandon Graham's first retirement was a brief one, but he says the second one will be a lasting exit from the football field.
Graham said at an event on Tuesday, via Rob Kuestner of NBC Philadelphia, that he is "officially done" playing football. Graham retired after the Eagles won Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans in February 2025, but the defensive end returned to the team in October and played in 10 games for the team.
Graham spent his entire NFL career with the Eagles. The 2010 first-round pick has the franchise record with 215 regular season appearances and he played in 13 playoff games, including both of the franchise's Super Bowl wins.
Graham had 495 tackles, 79.5 sacks, 23 forced fumbles and seven fumble recoveries in those 215 regular season games. He added 21 tackles, 5.5 sacks and two forced fumbles in the playoffs. One of those forced fumbles came against Tom Brady late in the fourth quarter of Philadelphia's Super Bowl LII win.
#bowl #first
Graham said at an event on Tuesday, via Rob Kuestner of NBC Philadelphia, that he is "officially done" playing football. Graham retired after the Eagles won Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans in February 2025, but the defensive end returned to the team in October and played in 10 games for the team.
Graham spent his entire NFL career with the Eagles. The 2010 first-round pick has the franchise record with 215 regular season appearances and he played in 13 playoff games, including both of the franchise's Super Bowl wins.
Graham had 495 tackles, 79.5 sacks, 23 forced fumbles and seven fumble recoveries in those 215 regular season games. He added 21 tackles, 5.5 sacks and two forced fumbles in the playoffs. One of those forced fumbles came against Tom Brady late in the fourth quarter of Philadelphia's Super Bowl LII win.
#bowl #first
5 days ago
The NFL is kicking off again with an absolutely loaded first week of games. The biggest face-offs launching the 2026 season include a Super Bowl rematch and a battle in Oz, with plenty of roster additions and subtractions that will transform your favorite teams. But for better or worse?
Read on to find out, in our top five most anticipated Week 1 matchups.
When: 8:20 p.m. ET
Where: NBC, Peacock
Week 1's opening game is also its most anticipated, as the Patriots take on the team that wiped the floor with them in a Super Bowl rematch. Will the Seahawks' dominant defense hold after the loss of key pieces like Riq Woolen and Coby Bryant? Or will New England QB Drake Maye achieve redemption (he had six sacks and two interceptions in Super Bowl LX) now that he's got protection from guard Alijah Vera-Tucker, and receivers A.J. Brown and Romeo Doubs catching passes instead of the other team?
#week #rematch #peacock
Read on to find out, in our top five most anticipated Week 1 matchups.
When: 8:20 p.m. ET
Where: NBC, Peacock
Week 1's opening game is also its most anticipated, as the Patriots take on the team that wiped the floor with them in a Super Bowl rematch. Will the Seahawks' dominant defense hold after the loss of key pieces like Riq Woolen and Coby Bryant? Or will New England QB Drake Maye achieve redemption (he had six sacks and two interceptions in Super Bowl LX) now that he's got protection from guard Alijah Vera-Tucker, and receivers A.J. Brown and Romeo Doubs catching passes instead of the other team?
#week #rematch #peacock
5 days ago
LAWRENCE — As Kansas football embarked this past Friday on the second year of D.K. McDonald serving as the team's lead defensive coordinator, in a season opener at home against LIU, the Jayhawks saw the group thrive in Lawrence.
Kansas, which went on to win 51-6, didn't allow any points until the fourth quarter — a pair of field goals. LIU only amassed 146 yards of total offense and went 2-for-13 on third downs. KU finished with 11 tackles for loss and three sacks, only allowing LIU to average 2.8 yards per play.
RELATED: Will Kansas football have Cam Pickett and Bam Crouch available against Missouri?
On Monday, here's what McDonald had to say about the defense's performance, as the Jayhawks continued to prepare for a game this upcoming Friday at home against Missouri:
McDonald liked what his side of the ball was able to do, getting those tackles for loss. He liked the effort the guys put in, how they'd rally around each other for tackles and play to the standard they're trying to set. It's something that he wants to see continue when Kansas faces Missouri.
#went
Kansas, which went on to win 51-6, didn't allow any points until the fourth quarter — a pair of field goals. LIU only amassed 146 yards of total offense and went 2-for-13 on third downs. KU finished with 11 tackles for loss and three sacks, only allowing LIU to average 2.8 yards per play.
RELATED: Will Kansas football have Cam Pickett and Bam Crouch available against Missouri?
On Monday, here's what McDonald had to say about the defense's performance, as the Jayhawks continued to prepare for a game this upcoming Friday at home against Missouri:
McDonald liked what his side of the ball was able to do, getting those tackles for loss. He liked the effort the guys put in, how they'd rally around each other for tackles and play to the standard they're trying to set. It's something that he wants to see continue when Kansas faces Missouri.
#went
5 days ago
The Seattle Seahawks begin their 2026 season versus the New England Patriots on Wednesday. That doesn't mean some publications aren't already looking towards the 2027 NFL draft. With a new college football campaign officially underway, mock drafts have been populating news feeds.
NFL Draft On SI: A Sports Illustrated Channel was among the outlets that released new first-round mock drafts. Using power rankings to determine the draft order, they have the Seahawks picking at No. 31 overall. The pick? Clemson defensive end Will Heldt.
"Seattle Seahawks general manager John Schneider likes to keep four, five pass rushers in rotation," NFL Draft On SI wrote. "With DeMarcus Lawrence and Dante Fowler Jr. being aging veterans, adding another young rusher to the fold would fit the Seahawks' approach. Clemson's Will Heldt transferred to the program last season from Purdue and led the Tigers in tackles for loss (15.5) and sacks (7.5)."
Heldt placed third among returning Power Four edge defenders with an 84.4 PFF overall grade last season, according to Pro Football Focus. His 87.8 PFF pass-rush grade on true pass sets ranked 14th in the Power Four. He's been a dominant rusher for the Tigers.
Heldt feels like a prospect who will be on the Seahawks' radar.
#heldt #draft #season
NFL Draft On SI: A Sports Illustrated Channel was among the outlets that released new first-round mock drafts. Using power rankings to determine the draft order, they have the Seahawks picking at No. 31 overall. The pick? Clemson defensive end Will Heldt.
"Seattle Seahawks general manager John Schneider likes to keep four, five pass rushers in rotation," NFL Draft On SI wrote. "With DeMarcus Lawrence and Dante Fowler Jr. being aging veterans, adding another young rusher to the fold would fit the Seahawks' approach. Clemson's Will Heldt transferred to the program last season from Purdue and led the Tigers in tackles for loss (15.5) and sacks (7.5)."
Heldt placed third among returning Power Four edge defenders with an 84.4 PFF overall grade last season, according to Pro Football Focus. His 87.8 PFF pass-rush grade on true pass sets ranked 14th in the Power Four. He's been a dominant rusher for the Tigers.
Heldt feels like a prospect who will be on the Seahawks' radar.
#heldt #draft #season
5 days ago
The reigning Celebration Bowl champs may only be two games into their 2026 season but they've also done a great job at showing why last year's HBCU National Championship was no fluke. Chennis Berry has built a dominant program top-to-bottom over in Orangeburg; a team that doesn't take losing well and doesn't do a whole lot of it to begin with. South Carolina State, now 2-0, appears to be steamrolling towards another stellar season. Another MEAC ***** le and trip to Atlanta may be waiting down the road and, while of course the work to get there will be difficult, there can be no debating that the Bulldogs are the top of the mountain in HBCU football at this very moment.
SC State came out of the gates blazing hot with a 87-0 victory over Savannah State (Berry's alma mater). In that game they were about as finely tuned a machine as you can get in all three phases. They racked up 627 offensive yards and amazingly enough not one individual player had more than 100 on their own in any singular category. Josh Shaw ran for three scores in that game and it wasn't even half of the total rushing touchdowns they had that day. Keely Watson completed eight passes and nearly half of those went for TDs as well. On the other side 29 different defenders logged at least one stop and three of them were responsible for takeaways. Just to stamp it they got a blocked punt returned for a score as well.
Division II opponent or not, that's the type of performance that just can't be ignored and it was followed up by another smothering performance against Florida A&M on Sunday in the Orange Blossom Classic. Down in Miami the Bulldogs steamrolled again in their 31-13 victory. The defense in particular was lights out as they held the Rattlers to -1 rushing yards. Yes, negative rushing yards for the whole game as well as a mere 4-for-17 on third down. Had it not been for a flurry of penalties, SC State could have won by a heck of a lot more.
The roster is brimming with talent and it starts with running back Mason Pickett-Hicks who is averaging 156.5 yards per game. Pickett-Hicks ran for 210 yards against FAMU last weekend and was essentially unstoppable on his 17 rush attempts. He found the end zone twice and was named the MEAC Offensive Player of the Week. SC State also boasted the conference's Defensive Player of the Week with junior defensive lineman Jordan Dollard. Dollard was a game-wrecker on Sunday, posting 4.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks. He had six stops total.
Those two are just a few of the playmakers the Bulldogs have at their disposal. Front to back Berry's team is loaded and, although the sample size has been small, it certainly seems like they are again the team to beat. Who, if anyone, might be able to do it?
#state #bulldogs
SC State came out of the gates blazing hot with a 87-0 victory over Savannah State (Berry's alma mater). In that game they were about as finely tuned a machine as you can get in all three phases. They racked up 627 offensive yards and amazingly enough not one individual player had more than 100 on their own in any singular category. Josh Shaw ran for three scores in that game and it wasn't even half of the total rushing touchdowns they had that day. Keely Watson completed eight passes and nearly half of those went for TDs as well. On the other side 29 different defenders logged at least one stop and three of them were responsible for takeaways. Just to stamp it they got a blocked punt returned for a score as well.
Division II opponent or not, that's the type of performance that just can't be ignored and it was followed up by another smothering performance against Florida A&M on Sunday in the Orange Blossom Classic. Down in Miami the Bulldogs steamrolled again in their 31-13 victory. The defense in particular was lights out as they held the Rattlers to -1 rushing yards. Yes, negative rushing yards for the whole game as well as a mere 4-for-17 on third down. Had it not been for a flurry of penalties, SC State could have won by a heck of a lot more.
The roster is brimming with talent and it starts with running back Mason Pickett-Hicks who is averaging 156.5 yards per game. Pickett-Hicks ran for 210 yards against FAMU last weekend and was essentially unstoppable on his 17 rush attempts. He found the end zone twice and was named the MEAC Offensive Player of the Week. SC State also boasted the conference's Defensive Player of the Week with junior defensive lineman Jordan Dollard. Dollard was a game-wrecker on Sunday, posting 4.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks. He had six stops total.
Those two are just a few of the playmakers the Bulldogs have at their disposal. Front to back Berry's team is loaded and, although the sample size has been small, it certainly seems like they are again the team to beat. Who, if anyone, might be able to do it?
#state #bulldogs
5 days ago
It is time for Week 3 of Iowa high school football in the state of Iowa for the 2026 season.
Week 3 will feature a full state of games play on Sept. 11.
The big showdown in Week 3 is between Class 5A No. 1 Dowling Catholic (2-0) and No. 7 Dallas Center-Grimes (2-0) at West Des Moines. Dowling is coming off a 41-35 win over Johnston in what was a 5A No. 1 vs No. 2 showdown, and DCG crushed Ottumwa, 54-0.
Dowling running back Henry Smid is coming off a tremendous 250-yard night versus Johnston and Maroon receiver Beau Williams caught four passe for 197 yards and three scores in the win. The Maroon defense is led by defensive lineman Brady Hagen and linebacker Chris Blount.
Kellen Wegner (three sacks) leads a DCG defense that has only given up seven points through the first two games. The Mustang offense is led by senior quarterback Chase Engel, who has completed 68% of his passes for 380 yards and five touchdowns with no interceptions, running back Osborn Grimm (280 yards and four touchdowns rushing) and receivers Chase Heitland (164 yards and two scores) and Gabriel Wright (122 yards and three scores).
#yards #three #iowa #state
Week 3 will feature a full state of games play on Sept. 11.
The big showdown in Week 3 is between Class 5A No. 1 Dowling Catholic (2-0) and No. 7 Dallas Center-Grimes (2-0) at West Des Moines. Dowling is coming off a 41-35 win over Johnston in what was a 5A No. 1 vs No. 2 showdown, and DCG crushed Ottumwa, 54-0.
Dowling running back Henry Smid is coming off a tremendous 250-yard night versus Johnston and Maroon receiver Beau Williams caught four passe for 197 yards and three scores in the win. The Maroon defense is led by defensive lineman Brady Hagen and linebacker Chris Blount.
Kellen Wegner (three sacks) leads a DCG defense that has only given up seven points through the first two games. The Mustang offense is led by senior quarterback Chase Engel, who has completed 68% of his passes for 380 yards and five touchdowns with no interceptions, running back Osborn Grimm (280 yards and four touchdowns rushing) and receivers Chase Heitland (164 yards and two scores) and Gabriel Wright (122 yards and three scores).
#yards #three #iowa #state
5 days ago
The New York Jets didn't draft David Bailey third overall to be a developmental player, he was drafted him to make an immediate impact. ESPN believes that's exactly what's about to happen.
In ESPN's 2026 rookie season guide, it is projected that Bailey will finish as the NFL's rookie sack leader. ESPN forecasted eight sacks for the Jets' edge rusher, placing him ahead of Tampa Bay Buccaneers defender Rueben Bain Jr. (6) and Los Angeles Chargers EDGE Akheem Mesidor (5).
The estimation is another sign of the expectations surrounding Bailey as he prepares for his first NFL season.
The Jets entered the offseason looking for pass-rush help and found it in the former Texas Tech Red Raiders standout. Bailey quickly impressed throughout training camp and the preseason, flashing the explosiveness and athletic traits that made him one of the top prospects in the 2026 draft class.
An eight-sack season would be a significant accomplishment for any rookie pass rusher, especially one expected to play a major role immediately. It would also provide a major boost to a Jets defense looking to rebound after a disappointing 2025 campaign.
#draft
In ESPN's 2026 rookie season guide, it is projected that Bailey will finish as the NFL's rookie sack leader. ESPN forecasted eight sacks for the Jets' edge rusher, placing him ahead of Tampa Bay Buccaneers defender Rueben Bain Jr. (6) and Los Angeles Chargers EDGE Akheem Mesidor (5).
The estimation is another sign of the expectations surrounding Bailey as he prepares for his first NFL season.
The Jets entered the offseason looking for pass-rush help and found it in the former Texas Tech Red Raiders standout. Bailey quickly impressed throughout training camp and the preseason, flashing the explosiveness and athletic traits that made him one of the top prospects in the 2026 draft class.
An eight-sack season would be a significant accomplishment for any rookie pass rusher, especially one expected to play a major role immediately. It would also provide a major boost to a Jets defense looking to rebound after a disappointing 2025 campaign.
#draft
5 days ago
While Maryland's offense was easily its busiest unit during the Terps' 62-0 opening week win over Hampton, it's Maryland's defense that has numbers getting those around football talking.
According to Pro Football Focus, Maryland's defense received the sixth-highest grade of all Division I teams over the weekend as it held Hampton to just 85 total yards.
The Terps' defensive line was individually the eighth-highest graded unit in the country.
From the defensive line, redshirt sophomore edge rusher DD Holmes stood out on the tape, recording his first two sacks for Maryland. Those sacks came despite him playing just nine snaps on the night — with the big impact in little time earning Holmes the fourth-greatest individual defender grade for PFF of the week.
Setting aside the manner in which it happened, a physical win against Hampton likely didn't alter any predictions on Maryland's win total for the season. Now, the Terps are five wins away from hitting .500 for the season — which 64% of Testudo Times voters predicted would happen in our most recent SBNation Reacts poll.
#Football #unit #grade #total
According to Pro Football Focus, Maryland's defense received the sixth-highest grade of all Division I teams over the weekend as it held Hampton to just 85 total yards.
The Terps' defensive line was individually the eighth-highest graded unit in the country.
From the defensive line, redshirt sophomore edge rusher DD Holmes stood out on the tape, recording his first two sacks for Maryland. Those sacks came despite him playing just nine snaps on the night — with the big impact in little time earning Holmes the fourth-greatest individual defender grade for PFF of the week.
Setting aside the manner in which it happened, a physical win against Hampton likely didn't alter any predictions on Maryland's win total for the season. Now, the Terps are five wins away from hitting .500 for the season — which 64% of Testudo Times voters predicted would happen in our most recent SBNation Reacts poll.
#Football #unit #grade #total
5 days ago
PISCATAWAY – Quarterback was a major question mark throughout spring practice and training camp for Rutgers football as Dylan Lonergan battled AJ Surace for the starting job before ultimately winning it.
Now after just one game, it's a question mark once again.
Lonergan had an uneven performance in the Scarlet Knights' stunning 37-21 season-opening loss to UMass on Thursday, Sept. 3, but beyond that an injury he suffered in the fourth quarter has thrown more uncertainty onto his status for Rutgers' Friday game at Boston College – Lonergan's former team.
Lonergan finished 16-of-29 passing for 242 yards with two touchdowns against the Minutemen, but he also threw three interceptions and fumbled the ball away.
Rutgers' offensive line didn't make it easy on him either, too often getting pushed around by UMass' defensive front (the Minutemen finished with five sacks).
#lonergan #minutemen #game #finished
Now after just one game, it's a question mark once again.
Lonergan had an uneven performance in the Scarlet Knights' stunning 37-21 season-opening loss to UMass on Thursday, Sept. 3, but beyond that an injury he suffered in the fourth quarter has thrown more uncertainty onto his status for Rutgers' Friday game at Boston College – Lonergan's former team.
Lonergan finished 16-of-29 passing for 242 yards with two touchdowns against the Minutemen, but he also threw three interceptions and fumbled the ball away.
Rutgers' offensive line didn't make it easy on him either, too often getting pushed around by UMass' defensive front (the Minutemen finished with five sacks).
#lonergan #minutemen #game #finished
5 days ago
The Washington Commanders enjoyed a long weekend before returning to Ashburn on Monday in preparation for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season. That extra time off brought some good news for the Commanders ahead of Sunday's opener against the Philadelphia Eagles.
"Everybody participated today," Quinn said when asked about linebacker Odafe Oweh. "It was a walkthrough practice, so I'll get you an update on Wednesday, but it's a good sign that everybody's trending in the right direction. Full group out there today getting work in."
Oweh and fellow edge rusher K'Lavon Chaisson were dealing with calf and knee injuries, respectively, late in training camp. Both missed some time, but Chaisson returned to practice last week. Some were concerned about whether Oweh would be ready for Week 1. Quinn's opening message on Monday would seem to indicate that the Commanders believe Oweh is trending toward playing against the Eagles.
Washington spent a ton of resources on improving the defense this offseason. New defensive coordinator Daronte Jones was the first move that the Commanders made. The biggest free-agent move Washington made was signing the 27-year-old Oweh. A first-round pick of the Ravens in the 2021 NFL Draft, Baltimore traded him to the Chargers last October after he got off to a slow start. After the trade, Oweh was outstanding, finishing with 7.5 sacks in 12 games for Los Angeles. Oweh then sacked Patriots quarterback three times in January's AFC Wild Card game.
Most of Washington's projected defense will be on the field next Sunday. Cornerback Trey Amos was placed on injured reserve last week, but everyone else is on track to play. Obviously, the Commanders will also be without star left tackle Laremy Tunsil (torn triceps) and defensive lineman Johnny Newton (torn pec), who were also placed on IR.
#Commanders #week #washington #time
"Everybody participated today," Quinn said when asked about linebacker Odafe Oweh. "It was a walkthrough practice, so I'll get you an update on Wednesday, but it's a good sign that everybody's trending in the right direction. Full group out there today getting work in."
Oweh and fellow edge rusher K'Lavon Chaisson were dealing with calf and knee injuries, respectively, late in training camp. Both missed some time, but Chaisson returned to practice last week. Some were concerned about whether Oweh would be ready for Week 1. Quinn's opening message on Monday would seem to indicate that the Commanders believe Oweh is trending toward playing against the Eagles.
Washington spent a ton of resources on improving the defense this offseason. New defensive coordinator Daronte Jones was the first move that the Commanders made. The biggest free-agent move Washington made was signing the 27-year-old Oweh. A first-round pick of the Ravens in the 2021 NFL Draft, Baltimore traded him to the Chargers last October after he got off to a slow start. After the trade, Oweh was outstanding, finishing with 7.5 sacks in 12 games for Los Angeles. Oweh then sacked Patriots quarterback three times in January's AFC Wild Card game.
Most of Washington's projected defense will be on the field next Sunday. Cornerback Trey Amos was placed on injured reserve last week, but everyone else is on track to play. Obviously, the Commanders will also be without star left tackle Laremy Tunsil (torn triceps) and defensive lineman Johnny Newton (torn pec), who were also placed on IR.
#Commanders #week #washington #time
5 days ago
After two seasons out of football, Aaron Donald has been pleasantly surprised by how his body has reacted since rejoining the Los Angeles Rams last month.
Whether it means the three-time ****** ociated Press Defensive Player of the Year will be ready to play in the Rams' season opener against the San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne, Australia, on Friday morning local time is still unclear.
"We going day by day," Donald said. "(We'll) Come up with a game plan and see what's going on. But feeling good. Feeling really good."
Donald did not practice Monday, which he described as a scheduled day off. Such breaks were frequently built into his game week to reduce wear and tear in later years during the 10 seasons of his first stint with the Rams. They are likely to again be a regular feature now that Donald is 35 years old and hasn't played in an NFL game since a NFC wild-card round loss to the Detroit Lions in January 2024.
For Donald, everything is about putting himself in position to be as effective as possible in meaningful action. He is still holding himself to the same standard that led to 111 sacks in 154 regular-season games and eight first-team All-Pro honors.
#donald #Rams
Whether it means the three-time ****** ociated Press Defensive Player of the Year will be ready to play in the Rams' season opener against the San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne, Australia, on Friday morning local time is still unclear.
"We going day by day," Donald said. "(We'll) Come up with a game plan and see what's going on. But feeling good. Feeling really good."
Donald did not practice Monday, which he described as a scheduled day off. Such breaks were frequently built into his game week to reduce wear and tear in later years during the 10 seasons of his first stint with the Rams. They are likely to again be a regular feature now that Donald is 35 years old and hasn't played in an NFL game since a NFC wild-card round loss to the Detroit Lions in January 2024.
For Donald, everything is about putting himself in position to be as effective as possible in meaningful action. He is still holding himself to the same standard that led to 111 sacks in 154 regular-season games and eight first-team All-Pro honors.
#donald #Rams
5 days ago
The agonizing wait is almost over: NFL football is just days away. Waking up every Sunday to root for our favorite teams, cheer on scoring drives, and yell at the TV over blown calls. The content from last season returns here, as we will take a look at three bold predictions for the Minnesota Vikings' Week 1 matchup with the Green Bay Packers.
Starting hot with this one, as the Packers finished 22nd in rush defense last season, allowing 117.7 yards per game on the ground. The reports out of camp have been that Jordan Mason has looked very good, and if he can get going, with the rushing upside of Kyler Murray, who may look to scramble more in a new system, obtaining this feat isn't out of the question.
The Packers' offensive line allowed just 29 sacks a season ago, 7th fewest in the NFL. There is a hungry pass rusher in Minnesota, looking to stamp his place among the premier young EDGE rushers in Dallas Turner, and a division rival could be a good first matchup. Turner is going to come out of the gate swinging, totaling 1.5 sacks on Jordan Love. If Minnesota wants to finish in the top of the sacks rankings, it starts with Turner.
For the struggles Green Bay had against the run, they performed well against the pass, finishing 8th in pass defense. Last season, Justin Jefferson went over 100 yards just three times last season, but he starts 2026 off on the right foot. With a significantly better quarterback comes higher expectations, and finally having a quarterback who can get him the ball again will be a sight for sore eyes for number 18.
This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: 3 Bold predictions for the Vikings Week 1 matchup with the Packers
#last #minnesota
Starting hot with this one, as the Packers finished 22nd in rush defense last season, allowing 117.7 yards per game on the ground. The reports out of camp have been that Jordan Mason has looked very good, and if he can get going, with the rushing upside of Kyler Murray, who may look to scramble more in a new system, obtaining this feat isn't out of the question.
The Packers' offensive line allowed just 29 sacks a season ago, 7th fewest in the NFL. There is a hungry pass rusher in Minnesota, looking to stamp his place among the premier young EDGE rushers in Dallas Turner, and a division rival could be a good first matchup. Turner is going to come out of the gate swinging, totaling 1.5 sacks on Jordan Love. If Minnesota wants to finish in the top of the sacks rankings, it starts with Turner.
For the struggles Green Bay had against the run, they performed well against the pass, finishing 8th in pass defense. Last season, Justin Jefferson went over 100 yards just three times last season, but he starts 2026 off on the right foot. With a significantly better quarterback comes higher expectations, and finally having a quarterback who can get him the ball again will be a sight for sore eyes for number 18.
This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: 3 Bold predictions for the Vikings Week 1 matchup with the Packers
#last #minnesota
5 days ago
The top of the National League East played itself to a stalemate this holiday weekend in Philadelphia, as the visiting Atlanta Braves and the hosting Phillies split a four-game set, two wins apiece. It was a captivating showdown between familiar rivals, one packed with impressive performances and knife's edge moments. But in the end, Walt Weiss' Braves left the Citizens Bank Park thunderdome with the same four-game division lead with which they arrived. Much happened — and little, too. At this point, the division is Atlanta's to lose.
That said, despite the dwindling of the baseball calendar, these clubs are not finished with each other yet. Three more regular-season games remain next weekend in Georgia. And, of course, there's always the opportunity for a big-time rendezvous come October.
Here's what we learned this weekend.
Join or create a Yahoo Fantasy Football league for the 2026 NFL season
The most consequential swing of the series — and perhaps Atlanta's entire season — came Sunday afternoon via the suddenly en fuego Ronald Acuña Jr. With the Braves down three and a pair on, the electrifying outfielder tied things up with a three-run crowd-silencer. After warding off six consecutive fastballs from Philly reliever Alex McFarlane, Acuña put the seventh, a 100.5-mph four-seamer, into the seats. As he rounded the sacks, the ever-emotive slugger unleashed his elaborate cornucopia of long-ball celebrations, much to the displeasure of the booing Philadelphia crowd.
#Braves #philadelphia #much #division
That said, despite the dwindling of the baseball calendar, these clubs are not finished with each other yet. Three more regular-season games remain next weekend in Georgia. And, of course, there's always the opportunity for a big-time rendezvous come October.
Here's what we learned this weekend.
Join or create a Yahoo Fantasy Football league for the 2026 NFL season
The most consequential swing of the series — and perhaps Atlanta's entire season — came Sunday afternoon via the suddenly en fuego Ronald Acuña Jr. With the Braves down three and a pair on, the electrifying outfielder tied things up with a three-run crowd-silencer. After warding off six consecutive fastballs from Philly reliever Alex McFarlane, Acuña put the seventh, a 100.5-mph four-seamer, into the seats. As he rounded the sacks, the ever-emotive slugger unleashed his elaborate cornucopia of long-ball celebrations, much to the displeasure of the booing Philadelphia crowd.
#Braves #philadelphia #much #division
5 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
6 days ago
Dallas Cowboys left guard Tyler Smith is scheduled to undergo thumb surgery Tuesday and will be placed on injured reserve, the team announced Sunday. A pro bowler each of the last three years, Smith is set to miss the first four weeks of the season, at least, and potentially more after head coach Brian Schottenheimer put his timeline at 4-6 weeks.
It's a tough break for a Cowboys offensive line looking to take another step forward in 2026 after paving the way for a top-10 rushing offense last season. With questions still remaining at right tackle, Smith's absence makes the line significantly weaker and changes the fantasy outlook for starting running back Javonte Williams.
One of the breakout fantasy stars of 2025, Williams won't find it easy repeating last year's 1,200-yard campaign and 4.8 yards per carry with Smith out.
Depending how Smith's backup performs in pass protection, this injury could also have an impact on Dak Prescott and his pass catchers after Dallas' line allowed the ninth-fewest sacks in 2025. But as a guard, Smith's impact begins in the rushing attack.
On the bright side, the pro bowler who only missed one game last season will return at some point. So any dip in fantasy value for Williams and others should only be temporary.
#last #fantasy
It's a tough break for a Cowboys offensive line looking to take another step forward in 2026 after paving the way for a top-10 rushing offense last season. With questions still remaining at right tackle, Smith's absence makes the line significantly weaker and changes the fantasy outlook for starting running back Javonte Williams.
One of the breakout fantasy stars of 2025, Williams won't find it easy repeating last year's 1,200-yard campaign and 4.8 yards per carry with Smith out.
Depending how Smith's backup performs in pass protection, this injury could also have an impact on Dak Prescott and his pass catchers after Dallas' line allowed the ninth-fewest sacks in 2025. But as a guard, Smith's impact begins in the rushing attack.
On the bright side, the pro bowler who only missed one game last season will return at some point. So any dip in fantasy value for Williams and others should only be temporary.
#last #fantasy
6 days ago
The Cleveland Browns were nearly dominant on defense last season, finishing fourth in the NFL in total defense. A major part of their success last season was the record-setting performance by Myles Garrett, who set the all-time sack record with 23.0. Garrett has been moved to the Rams, and replacing him is a formidable pass rusher in his own right: Jared Verse.
With the ESPN top 100 recently released, Verse would come in at number 69, somehow dropping down 14 spots from his 55 ranking in 2025:
The Browns traded a two-time Defensive Player of the Year in Myles Garrett, but Verse was a cornerstone, not a consolation prize, for Cleveland in the blockbuster deal. The 2024 Defensive Rookie of the Year is already one of the league's best power rushers. He has been adding more moves to his repertoire this offseason, and he thinks returning to a three-point stance in the Browns' 4-3 scheme will give him even more sack opportunities. -- Daniel Oyefusi
Fairly criminal work by ESPN to lower Verse's ranking so dramatically, but we press on. What made things even worse was his projected sack total of 8.0, which most Browns fans will be expecting him to eclipse fairly easily, as he should land right around 12.0 sacks or more in 2026.
This article originally appeared on Browns Wire: Where did Jared Verse rank in ESPN's Top 100 NFL Players?
#Browns
With the ESPN top 100 recently released, Verse would come in at number 69, somehow dropping down 14 spots from his 55 ranking in 2025:
The Browns traded a two-time Defensive Player of the Year in Myles Garrett, but Verse was a cornerstone, not a consolation prize, for Cleveland in the blockbuster deal. The 2024 Defensive Rookie of the Year is already one of the league's best power rushers. He has been adding more moves to his repertoire this offseason, and he thinks returning to a three-point stance in the Browns' 4-3 scheme will give him even more sack opportunities. -- Daniel Oyefusi
Fairly criminal work by ESPN to lower Verse's ranking so dramatically, but we press on. What made things even worse was his projected sack total of 8.0, which most Browns fans will be expecting him to eclipse fairly easily, as he should land right around 12.0 sacks or more in 2026.
This article originally appeared on Browns Wire: Where did Jared Verse rank in ESPN's Top 100 NFL Players?
#Browns
