6 hours ago
Ayyoub Bouaddi just took a step closer to signing for Manchester City this summer.
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Sky Sports Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg confirmed on X (formerly Twitter) that the Lille midfielder "has reached a full verbal agreement" with the Sky Blues.
The midfielder – previously thought to be of some interest to decision-makers at Liverpool – is being monitored by competing clubs.
We're not necessarily disappointed that this is a deal Liverpool have evidently decided to distance themselves from.
#ayyoub #download #official #latest
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL EMPIRE OF THE KOP APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Sky Sports Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg confirmed on X (formerly Twitter) that the Lille midfielder "has reached a full verbal agreement" with the Sky Blues.
The midfielder – previously thought to be of some interest to decision-makers at Liverpool – is being monitored by competing clubs.
We're not necessarily disappointed that this is a deal Liverpool have evidently decided to distance themselves from.
#ayyoub #download #official #latest
2 days ago
Elfyn Evans holds third place at Rally Finland despite rolling his Toyota on Saturday, as Sebastien Ogier was taken to hospital after crashing out of the lead.
Nine-time champion Ogier and co-driver Julien Ingrassia had a big accident on stage 17 - Saturday's penultimate stage - after they ran wide on a fast, right-hand corner and their Toyota crashed into trees.
The stage was stopped and an update from Toyota said both Ogier and Ingrassia got out of the car "unassisted", and were taken to hospital for checks but were "conscious and generally OK".
Sami Pajari, who won his first rally at the previous round in Estonia, inherited first place from Ogier and leads his home event with two stages remaining on Sunday.
The Finnish driver holds an advantage of 46.4 seconds over Toyota team-mate Oliver Solberg, while Evans moved into third place ahead of Hyundai's Adrien Fourmaux after setting the fastest time on Saturday's final stage.
#toyota #place #ingrassia #holds
Nine-time champion Ogier and co-driver Julien Ingrassia had a big accident on stage 17 - Saturday's penultimate stage - after they ran wide on a fast, right-hand corner and their Toyota crashed into trees.
The stage was stopped and an update from Toyota said both Ogier and Ingrassia got out of the car "unassisted", and were taken to hospital for checks but were "conscious and generally OK".
Sami Pajari, who won his first rally at the previous round in Estonia, inherited first place from Ogier and leads his home event with two stages remaining on Sunday.
The Finnish driver holds an advantage of 46.4 seconds over Toyota team-mate Oliver Solberg, while Evans moved into third place ahead of Hyundai's Adrien Fourmaux after setting the fastest time on Saturday's final stage.
#toyota #place #ingrassia #holds
3 days ago
Sam Leavitt's transfer from Arizona State to LSU did not go over well with some ASU fans. Neither did recent comments from the LSU quarterback.
Leavitt addressed his transfer from Arizona State to LSU in recent comments, saying that LSU is "just different" from ASU.
"It's funny, that's kind of what everyone's saying around here, 'It's just different,'" Leavitt said at a recent LSU football event. "It really is in every aspect. You come out here to the practices, the way individual reps are ran, you know the way that every single coach is just so poured into this, the time that we meet outside the facility, outside of like the initial time we're supposed to meet — it truly is just a different situation. You talk about being a pro, trying to become the best version of yourself, and there's no other place to do it, other than here."
"Every single day I walk into the facility, and I see Whit (linebacker Whit Weeks), Ty Benefield, all these dudes. And you've got to go against them every single day. Some pretty good players to play."
Added Leavitt: "Just looking back at my process, you know I think, leaving ASU, you know, I had a comfortable situation. Walking into the building, I saw my guys, built great relationships, won a lot of games there. But I wanted to do something a little bit different, you know."
#leavitt #different #single #arizona
Leavitt addressed his transfer from Arizona State to LSU in recent comments, saying that LSU is "just different" from ASU.
"It's funny, that's kind of what everyone's saying around here, 'It's just different,'" Leavitt said at a recent LSU football event. "It really is in every aspect. You come out here to the practices, the way individual reps are ran, you know the way that every single coach is just so poured into this, the time that we meet outside the facility, outside of like the initial time we're supposed to meet — it truly is just a different situation. You talk about being a pro, trying to become the best version of yourself, and there's no other place to do it, other than here."
"Every single day I walk into the facility, and I see Whit (linebacker Whit Weeks), Ty Benefield, all these dudes. And you've got to go against them every single day. Some pretty good players to play."
Added Leavitt: "Just looking back at my process, you know I think, leaving ASU, you know, I had a comfortable situation. Walking into the building, I saw my guys, built great relationships, won a lot of games there. But I wanted to do something a little bit different, you know."
#leavitt #different #single #arizona
3 days ago
CHICAGO — Michigan State linebacker Jordan Hall had a smile on his face at Big Ten Media Days on Wednesday talking about his former teammate Nick Marsh's unique dress sense.
After the 2025 season, Indiana football signed the talented receiver out of the transfer portal. Marsh made a splashy entrance on the first day of spring camp by busting out a pair of gold cleats in violation of Curt Cignetti's strict uniform policy.
Cignetti sent Marsh right back to the locker room.
"It didn't surprise me that he yelled at him," Hall said with a laugh. "It didn't surprise me that he was wearing it."
More: Indiana football commands respect at Big Ten Media Days
#Chicago
After the 2025 season, Indiana football signed the talented receiver out of the transfer portal. Marsh made a splashy entrance on the first day of spring camp by busting out a pair of gold cleats in violation of Curt Cignetti's strict uniform policy.
Cignetti sent Marsh right back to the locker room.
"It didn't surprise me that he yelled at him," Hall said with a laugh. "It didn't surprise me that he was wearing it."
More: Indiana football commands respect at Big Ten Media Days
#Chicago
4 days ago
NASCAR's first-ever In-Season Challenge appears to have accomplished exactly what the sport and its newest broadcast partner hoped it would.
TNT Sports released new audience data this week highlighting strong growth throughout its five-race stretch of the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season, pointing to gains across television, streaming and younger audiences during the inaugural tournament.
The numbers offer an early indication that NASCAR's newest midseason competition resonated with fans while helping TNT build momentum during its first year back as a Cup Series broadcaster.
According to TNT Sports, coverage across TNT, truTV and HBO Max reached 16.6 million total viewers over the five-race In-Season Challenge, marking a 43% increase compared to 2025.
The network also reported its five Cup Series broadcasts averaged 2.0 million viewers. Excluding the weather-affected EchoPark Speedway race in Atlanta, which aired after a three-hour, nine-minute delay and produced the latest Cup Series finish in seven years, average viewership climbed to 2.2 million, an increase of more than 2.1 million viewers over the comparable races last season.
#race #viewers #sports #newest
TNT Sports released new audience data this week highlighting strong growth throughout its five-race stretch of the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season, pointing to gains across television, streaming and younger audiences during the inaugural tournament.
The numbers offer an early indication that NASCAR's newest midseason competition resonated with fans while helping TNT build momentum during its first year back as a Cup Series broadcaster.
According to TNT Sports, coverage across TNT, truTV and HBO Max reached 16.6 million total viewers over the five-race In-Season Challenge, marking a 43% increase compared to 2025.
The network also reported its five Cup Series broadcasts averaged 2.0 million viewers. Excluding the weather-affected EchoPark Speedway race in Atlanta, which aired after a three-hour, nine-minute delay and produced the latest Cup Series finish in seven years, average viewership climbed to 2.2 million, an increase of more than 2.1 million viewers over the comparable races last season.
#race #viewers #sports #newest
4 days ago
In his NFL career, Texans defensive end Will Anderson has only missed games due to injuries twice: In 2023, when he suffered a high-ankle sprain against the Jets on the turf at MetLife Stadium, and in 2024, when he suffered another high-ankle sprain against the Jets on the turf at MetLife Stadium. He doesn't think that's a coincidence.
Asked about the use of real grass in the World Cup, both at MetLife and at the Texans' NRG Stadium, Anderson said it's the superior playing surface.
"Yes, most definitely. I would most definitely say grass. Grass 100 percent," Anderson said. "I think it's just the natural feel of grass, your feet not getting stuck in the ground like in turf. I had two high ankle sprains up in MetLife because of the turf. I think grass is just a better option."
Still, Anderson said he hasn't talked to the Texans about using a grass field in Houston for NFL games.
"Not really. At the end of the day, it's up to them. They'll figure it out. You just control what you can control. Go out there and play and do your job," Anderson said.
#turf #think
Asked about the use of real grass in the World Cup, both at MetLife and at the Texans' NRG Stadium, Anderson said it's the superior playing surface.
"Yes, most definitely. I would most definitely say grass. Grass 100 percent," Anderson said. "I think it's just the natural feel of grass, your feet not getting stuck in the ground like in turf. I had two high ankle sprains up in MetLife because of the turf. I think grass is just a better option."
Still, Anderson said he hasn't talked to the Texans about using a grass field in Houston for NFL games.
"Not really. At the end of the day, it's up to them. They'll figure it out. You just control what you can control. Go out there and play and do your job," Anderson said.
#turf #think
5 days ago
When you are reading this, we will be TWO WEEKS AWAY from the start of the Marquette women's soccer season!
We'll do a lot more season previewing as we get closer to the start of action, but for now, we have to beat the league office to the punch. Last year, we got the preseason Big East awards just a couple of days before the Golden Eagles got going with their season. That means we have to get waaaaaay out in front of the official results of the polling of the league's women's soccer coaches and make some picks for who is going to get honored as the season gets started. My guiding light on these picks is, as always, trying to predict how the coaches will vote. I have my own preferences as to how things should turn out, but at the end of the day, the goal is to try to get these right.
Okay, let's jump right into it, as we've got three individual awards to discuss, as well as a preseason all-conference team and a predicted order of finish for all 11 teams in the Big East!
These things don't have to be complicated: Kohls is the leading returning point scorer in the Big East this season. She had six goals and eight ***** ists last season for the Musketeers for a total of 20 points. Here's the catch: Since the last time the Big East updated the stats for last season was on November 10th, before the NCAA tournament started, Kohls was tied for eighth in total points a year ago and tied for ninth in points per game. She's still the best returning player. Part of that is because there were A LOT of seniors on the All-Big East teams last fall, and another part is because two players in front of Kohls transferred after the season was over. That includes her own teammate, Samantha Erbach, who was the top scorer in the Big East last year with 18 goals and 16 ***** ists, but now she's at Florida State.
I'm going by the points and points per game here, because I value the contribution of ***** ists to offensive production. Sometimes the coaches don't agree with me on that topic, and so I should note that the Big East's top returning goal scorer from last season is Marquette's Jocelyn Leigh, who finished the year with seven. That was tied for eighth in the league in total goals and alone in sixth for goals per game as of the last time the league ran the stat sheet. Marquette was third in the Big East in team goals for as of November 10th with only Georgetown and Xavier in front of them, so there's an argument for Leigh to get the nod here.
#kohls
We'll do a lot more season previewing as we get closer to the start of action, but for now, we have to beat the league office to the punch. Last year, we got the preseason Big East awards just a couple of days before the Golden Eagles got going with their season. That means we have to get waaaaaay out in front of the official results of the polling of the league's women's soccer coaches and make some picks for who is going to get honored as the season gets started. My guiding light on these picks is, as always, trying to predict how the coaches will vote. I have my own preferences as to how things should turn out, but at the end of the day, the goal is to try to get these right.
Okay, let's jump right into it, as we've got three individual awards to discuss, as well as a preseason all-conference team and a predicted order of finish for all 11 teams in the Big East!
These things don't have to be complicated: Kohls is the leading returning point scorer in the Big East this season. She had six goals and eight ***** ists last season for the Musketeers for a total of 20 points. Here's the catch: Since the last time the Big East updated the stats for last season was on November 10th, before the NCAA tournament started, Kohls was tied for eighth in total points a year ago and tied for ninth in points per game. She's still the best returning player. Part of that is because there were A LOT of seniors on the All-Big East teams last fall, and another part is because two players in front of Kohls transferred after the season was over. That includes her own teammate, Samantha Erbach, who was the top scorer in the Big East last year with 18 goals and 16 ***** ists, but now she's at Florida State.
I'm going by the points and points per game here, because I value the contribution of ***** ists to offensive production. Sometimes the coaches don't agree with me on that topic, and so I should note that the Big East's top returning goal scorer from last season is Marquette's Jocelyn Leigh, who finished the year with seven. That was tied for eighth in the league in total goals and alone in sixth for goals per game as of the last time the league ran the stat sheet. Marquette was third in the Big East in team goals for as of November 10th with only Georgetown and Xavier in front of them, so there's an argument for Leigh to get the nod here.
#kohls
6 days ago
Do the Seattle Seahawks need more at running back for the 2026 NFL season?
Bleacher Report's Alex Kay named Tennessee ******* ans star Tony Pollard as a running back that is worth the Seahawks pursuing in a trade prior to the start of next season.
"With good hands and acceptable pass-blocking talent, Pollard can be involved in all phases of Seattle's offense and used in a variety of ways," Kay said. "He's an ideal plug-and-play veteran for the defending champs as they gear up for another deep run."
Pollard is a perennial 1,000-yard rusher who excels in picking up yardage up the middle. He is consistent, skilled and has the experience to allow Seattle to not only run the ball in volume, but also change pace well next season.
With question marks at the running back position in Seattle, Pollard is a player who is capable of providing stability in the offensive backfield next to rookie Jadarian Price beginning in 2026.
#Seattle #seahawks
Bleacher Report's Alex Kay named Tennessee ******* ans star Tony Pollard as a running back that is worth the Seahawks pursuing in a trade prior to the start of next season.
"With good hands and acceptable pass-blocking talent, Pollard can be involved in all phases of Seattle's offense and used in a variety of ways," Kay said. "He's an ideal plug-and-play veteran for the defending champs as they gear up for another deep run."
Pollard is a perennial 1,000-yard rusher who excels in picking up yardage up the middle. He is consistent, skilled and has the experience to allow Seattle to not only run the ball in volume, but also change pace well next season.
With question marks at the running back position in Seattle, Pollard is a player who is capable of providing stability in the offensive backfield next to rookie Jadarian Price beginning in 2026.
#Seattle #seahawks
6 days ago
Giannis Antetokounmpo extends an olive branch to new Miami Heat teammate Bam Adebayo and his family.
Giannis was traded to join Adebayo's Heat this summer, teaming up with two players who had been conference rivals for years.
With Adebayo and Antetokounmpo focused on being on the same page after years of an on-court rivalry, Antetokounmpo had the perfect vacation idea for the pair.
As Antetokounmpo went to the Heat's practice facility, he met Adebayo mid-workout as Giannis suggested Bam come with him to vacation in Greece, where they can work out together.
"Come to Greece.. Come to Greece with your wife. Your wife, sorry. I don't know if you're married."
#adebayo #heat #years #wife
Giannis was traded to join Adebayo's Heat this summer, teaming up with two players who had been conference rivals for years.
With Adebayo and Antetokounmpo focused on being on the same page after years of an on-court rivalry, Antetokounmpo had the perfect vacation idea for the pair.
As Antetokounmpo went to the Heat's practice facility, he met Adebayo mid-workout as Giannis suggested Bam come with him to vacation in Greece, where they can work out together.
"Come to Greece.. Come to Greece with your wife. Your wife, sorry. I don't know if you're married."
#adebayo #heat #years #wife
9 days ago
Former US President Barack Obama unknowingly gave Angel Reese a reality check.
The 2026 WNBA All-Star Game is being held in Chicago as fans line up to watch the likes of Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese in action.
Since the All-Star weekend is in Chicago, former US President Barack Obama is actively involved in the event because of his deep love for the game of basketball.
John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune/Tribune News Service via Getty Images
With the All-Star weekend kicking off, players from around the country landed in Chicago, including Atlanta Sky star Angel Reese.
#reese #obama
The 2026 WNBA All-Star Game is being held in Chicago as fans line up to watch the likes of Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese in action.
Since the All-Star weekend is in Chicago, former US President Barack Obama is actively involved in the event because of his deep love for the game of basketball.
John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune/Tribune News Service via Getty Images
With the All-Star weekend kicking off, players from around the country landed in Chicago, including Atlanta Sky star Angel Reese.
#reese #obama
10 days ago
The Washington Commanders had a mission this offseason: get "younger and faster." General manager Adam Peters uttered those words in January at Washington's season-ending press conference. Beginning in free agency, Peters followed those words with every move. The end result was a completely revamped defense, especially at edge rusher.
Many of those defensive changes were up front. The Commanders struggled to stop the run and pass last season, got no pressure on opposing quarterbacks, and couldn't force turnovers. They were at or near the bottom in every major defensive statistical category.
In addition to several new defensive starters, the Commanders also have a new defensive coordinator: Daronte Jones. There are plenty of reasons to be excited about Washington's defense, if for no other reason, they can't be any worse.
As we continue with our positional previews, let's look at Washington's defensive line and edge rushers ahead of training camp.
Edge rushers/defensive end
#season #defense #washington
Many of those defensive changes were up front. The Commanders struggled to stop the run and pass last season, got no pressure on opposing quarterbacks, and couldn't force turnovers. They were at or near the bottom in every major defensive statistical category.
In addition to several new defensive starters, the Commanders also have a new defensive coordinator: Daronte Jones. There are plenty of reasons to be excited about Washington's defense, if for no other reason, they can't be any worse.
As we continue with our positional previews, let's look at Washington's defensive line and edge rushers ahead of training camp.
Edge rushers/defensive end
#season #defense #washington
11 days ago
The Arizona Cardinals reported to training camp on Wednesday. They have their first practice on Wednesday and fans will get to see practice for the first time on Friday.
The Cardinals have many important position battles to watch. One is at quarterback. The Arizona Cardinals reported to training camp on Wednesday. They had their first practice on Thursday, and fans will get to see practice for the first time on Friday.
The Cardinals have many important position battles to watch. One is the starting right guard job.
Adams is in his third season. He started five games as a rookie. He opened last season as the starter, was replaced by Will Hernandez and then, after Hernandez got hurt, he finished the season as the starter.
He also ran with the first-team offense all through the spring in the offseason program.
#first
The Cardinals have many important position battles to watch. One is at quarterback. The Arizona Cardinals reported to training camp on Wednesday. They had their first practice on Thursday, and fans will get to see practice for the first time on Friday.
The Cardinals have many important position battles to watch. One is the starting right guard job.
Adams is in his third season. He started five games as a rookie. He opened last season as the starter, was replaced by Will Hernandez and then, after Hernandez got hurt, he finished the season as the starter.
He also ran with the first-team offense all through the spring in the offseason program.
#first
11 days ago
Arsenal have intensified their pursuit of Bruno Guimaraes, with reports in Brazil indicating that a fresh bid has now been lodged with Newcastle United as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen the spine of his side before the new campaign.
According to RTI Esporte, ****** nal have increased their offer to €85m, £72.5m, made up of €80m, £68.3m, guaranteed and a further €5m, £4.2m, in add-ons. That figure moves beyond the previous €75m, £64m, proposal, which was deemed below Newcastle's valuation of their captain.
The report adds that personal terms are already in place with Guimaraes, leaving the clubs to determine whether common ground can be found. From ****** nal's perspective, that is often the clearest indication that a move has progressed beyond tentative interest and into serious negotiation.
Arsenal have already moved with intent in this window, securing Piero Hincapie on a permanent deal from Bayer Leverkusen and bringing in Illan Meslier to add competition in goal. The missed opportunity to land Morgan Rogers, who instead completed a £117m switch from Aston Villa to Chelsea, appears to have sharpened the club's focus elsewhere.
In that context, the Bruno Guimaraes transfer feels highly significant. ****** nal are seeking a midfielder capable of dictating tempo, resisting pressure and adding authority in the biggest moments. Few in the Premier League combine those traits as consistently as the Brazil international.
#arsenal #bruno #newcastle #united
According to RTI Esporte, ****** nal have increased their offer to €85m, £72.5m, made up of €80m, £68.3m, guaranteed and a further €5m, £4.2m, in add-ons. That figure moves beyond the previous €75m, £64m, proposal, which was deemed below Newcastle's valuation of their captain.
The report adds that personal terms are already in place with Guimaraes, leaving the clubs to determine whether common ground can be found. From ****** nal's perspective, that is often the clearest indication that a move has progressed beyond tentative interest and into serious negotiation.
Arsenal have already moved with intent in this window, securing Piero Hincapie on a permanent deal from Bayer Leverkusen and bringing in Illan Meslier to add competition in goal. The missed opportunity to land Morgan Rogers, who instead completed a £117m switch from Aston Villa to Chelsea, appears to have sharpened the club's focus elsewhere.
In that context, the Bruno Guimaraes transfer feels highly significant. ****** nal are seeking a midfielder capable of dictating tempo, resisting pressure and adding authority in the biggest moments. Few in the Premier League combine those traits as consistently as the Brazil international.
#arsenal #bruno #newcastle #united
11 days ago
Diamond Miller faces increased WNBA punishment after physical Caitlin Clark incident originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Diamond Miller’s physical exchange with Caitlin Clark during the Indiana Fever’s blowout victory over the Connecticut Sun will cost the veteran forward.
Miller received her fourth technical foul of the 2026 season during Indiana’s 123-88 win Wednesday at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Under the WNBA’s technical foul rules, Miller is now facing a $1,000 fine. The incident came during a heated game that included multiple technical and flagrant fouls. While the Sun attempted to frustrate Clark and the Fever with physical defense, Indiana delivered its response on the scoreboard.
Clark finished with 27 points and 11 **** ists, leading the Fever to their third consecutive win and a 16-10 record entering the WNBA All-Star break.
The confrontation occurred midway through the third quarter as Miller guarded Clark closely. Miller held and pulled at Clark while attempting to disrupt the Fever guard. The physical play continued during a dead-ball situation when Miller appeared to make another attempt at the ball and moved toward Clark after the whistle.
#miller #clark
Diamond Miller’s physical exchange with Caitlin Clark during the Indiana Fever’s blowout victory over the Connecticut Sun will cost the veteran forward.
Miller received her fourth technical foul of the 2026 season during Indiana’s 123-88 win Wednesday at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Under the WNBA’s technical foul rules, Miller is now facing a $1,000 fine. The incident came during a heated game that included multiple technical and flagrant fouls. While the Sun attempted to frustrate Clark and the Fever with physical defense, Indiana delivered its response on the scoreboard.
Clark finished with 27 points and 11 **** ists, leading the Fever to their third consecutive win and a 16-10 record entering the WNBA All-Star break.
The confrontation occurred midway through the third quarter as Miller guarded Clark closely. Miller held and pulled at Clark while attempting to disrupt the Fever guard. The physical play continued during a dead-ball situation when Miller appeared to make another attempt at the ball and moved toward Clark after the whistle.
#miller #clark
12 days ago
Top 2027 recruit Ma’Ryiah Alfred has committed to Houston, she told Rivals. The 5-7 point guard from Houston (TX) The Kincaid School chose Houston over UNLV and Georgetown.
“The belief that he has in me and that he’s shown in me through the whole recruiting process,” Alfred said of why she chose the Cougars. “I want to be a part of something special. I believe that he has the vision to change women’s basketball in Houston. It’d be crazy to look back in the future and be a part of the change.”
Her relationship with head coach Matthew Mitchell played a role in her decision.
“I actually go to school with his daughters,” she said. “He was always around and always supporting me…He’s seen the good days and the bad days and he’s never changed. Everything has been so genuine and his belief in me made our relationship very close.”
Alfred sees her game fitting in well with Houston’s play style.
#alfred #chose #change #relationship
“The belief that he has in me and that he’s shown in me through the whole recruiting process,” Alfred said of why she chose the Cougars. “I want to be a part of something special. I believe that he has the vision to change women’s basketball in Houston. It’d be crazy to look back in the future and be a part of the change.”
Her relationship with head coach Matthew Mitchell played a role in her decision.
“I actually go to school with his daughters,” she said. “He was always around and always supporting me…He’s seen the good days and the bad days and he’s never changed. Everything has been so genuine and his belief in me made our relationship very close.”
Alfred sees her game fitting in well with Houston’s play style.
#alfred #chose #change #relationship
12 days ago
Jon Gruden is backing the Denver Broncos going into the 2026 NFL season.
During an appearance on "Wake Up Barstool," Gruden picked the Broncos to win the AFC West this fall.
"I'm gonna pick Denver, just because of the continuity — head coach, quarterback. Almost all of their starters are back on both sides of the ball, and they're going to get a jolt from [Jaylen] Waddle."
Behind the Broncos, Gruden projected the Los Angeles Chargers to finish second in the AFC West and the Kansas City Chiefs to finish third. "I think all three of those teams can be playoff teams," he said.
As for the Las Vegas Raiders, Gruden expects his old team to improve but not leapfrog the "very tough" teams in their division with established coaches and quarterbacks.
#teams #barstool #almost
During an appearance on "Wake Up Barstool," Gruden picked the Broncos to win the AFC West this fall.
"I'm gonna pick Denver, just because of the continuity — head coach, quarterback. Almost all of their starters are back on both sides of the ball, and they're going to get a jolt from [Jaylen] Waddle."
Behind the Broncos, Gruden projected the Los Angeles Chargers to finish second in the AFC West and the Kansas City Chiefs to finish third. "I think all three of those teams can be playoff teams," he said.
As for the Las Vegas Raiders, Gruden expects his old team to improve but not leapfrog the "very tough" teams in their division with established coaches and quarterbacks.
#teams #barstool #almost
12 days ago
The Lone Star Conference’s annual football media day will be held Thursday, July 23 at McKinney ISD Stadium’s Community Event Center in McKinney, Texas.
All 10 football teams — Angelo State, Central Washington, Eastern New Mexico, Midwestern State, Sul Ross State, Texas A&M Kingsville, UT Permian Basin, West Texas A&M, Western New Mexico and Western Oregon — will be represented by their coach and two players.
More: Angelo State names Mike Erwin as new women's soccer coach
The program includes remarks from commissioner Jay Poerner, the announcement of the preseason players to watch list, players of the year and poll.
The Lone Star Conference will begin its 95th season in 2026 with Central Washington set to start its ***** le defense on Saturday, Sept. 5, while the other nine teams scheduled their first games on Thursday, Aug. 27 and Saturday, Aug. 29.
#state #players #mckinney
All 10 football teams — Angelo State, Central Washington, Eastern New Mexico, Midwestern State, Sul Ross State, Texas A&M Kingsville, UT Permian Basin, West Texas A&M, Western New Mexico and Western Oregon — will be represented by their coach and two players.
More: Angelo State names Mike Erwin as new women's soccer coach
The program includes remarks from commissioner Jay Poerner, the announcement of the preseason players to watch list, players of the year and poll.
The Lone Star Conference will begin its 95th season in 2026 with Central Washington set to start its ***** le defense on Saturday, Sept. 5, while the other nine teams scheduled their first games on Thursday, Aug. 27 and Saturday, Aug. 29.
#state #players #mckinney
19 days ago
LAS VEGAS — So perhaps a little throwback LL Cool J if LeBron James opts for a return to the Miami Heat? As in the opening verse of "Mama Said Knock You Out."
"Don't call it a comeback, I been here for years. I'm rockin' my peers, puttin' suckers in fear."
Actually it has been years since LeBron last played for the Heat in 2014, but there still has been an enduring connection — at Dwyane Wade's final game with the Heat in 2019, the opponent in the 2020 NBA Finals at the Disney bubble, and an embrace with Heat president Pat Riley this past season when the Lakers unveiled a Riley statue in from their arena in downtown Los Angeles.
And now speculation of perhaps indeed calling it a comeback, with the Heat perceived as a finalist for James' services in the wake of his parting last month with the Lakers.
Through the Heat's first 38 seasons, there have been 14 cases of players leaving, playing elsewhere, and then returning.
"Don't call it a comeback, I been here for years. I'm rockin' my peers, puttin' suckers in fear."
Actually it has been years since LeBron last played for the Heat in 2014, but there still has been an enduring connection — at Dwyane Wade's final game with the Heat in 2019, the opponent in the 2020 NBA Finals at the Disney bubble, and an embrace with Heat president Pat Riley this past season when the Lakers unveiled a Riley statue in from their arena in downtown Los Angeles.
And now speculation of perhaps indeed calling it a comeback, with the Heat perceived as a finalist for James' services in the wake of his parting last month with the Lakers.
Through the Heat's first 38 seasons, there have been 14 cases of players leaving, playing elsewhere, and then returning.
20 days ago
Greetings, Bengals fans! We’re inching closer and closer to the start of training camp and the beginning of the 2026 Bengals’ journey.
From top to bottom, this looks like one of the best Bengals teams ******* embled in recent memory, but it’s not without some question marks at several positions.
So, we want to know which projected Bengals starter is the likeliest to be benched in favor of someone else at some point this year.
The usual suspects are linebackers Demetrius Knight and Barrett Carter, both of whom endured rocky rookie seasons and are already firmly under the microscope entering Year 2. However, there aren’t exactly many candidates to replace either of them on the roster, and the Bengals have yet to show they’re interested in free agents like Bobby Wagner.
Perhaps it will be another position where a new starter is inserted sometime this year. Jordan Battle has been wildly erratic at safety, though he’s not exactly had a good supporting cast around him. With guys like Bryan Cook and Dexter Lawrence now here, it’s likely now-or-never time for Battle to show he deserves to keep his starting spot.
From top to bottom, this looks like one of the best Bengals teams ******* embled in recent memory, but it’s not without some question marks at several positions.
So, we want to know which projected Bengals starter is the likeliest to be benched in favor of someone else at some point this year.
The usual suspects are linebackers Demetrius Knight and Barrett Carter, both of whom endured rocky rookie seasons and are already firmly under the microscope entering Year 2. However, there aren’t exactly many candidates to replace either of them on the roster, and the Bengals have yet to show they’re interested in free agents like Bobby Wagner.
Perhaps it will be another position where a new starter is inserted sometime this year. Jordan Battle has been wildly erratic at safety, though he’s not exactly had a good supporting cast around him. With guys like Bryan Cook and Dexter Lawrence now here, it’s likely now-or-never time for Battle to show he deserves to keep his starting spot.
20 days ago
The full family is in place.
One of the most anticipated things relating to the new Highmark Stadium home of the Buffalo Bills in western New York has involved something just outside of the building.
Bills fans have a lot of Buffalo pride in them and if there was one request the fans had for the new venue? It was to display exactly that with bison statues outside of the front door.
Previously Bills Wire shared the installment of the first bison. Now the whole family is in place.
Check out a collection of views of the whole bison lot below:
One of the most anticipated things relating to the new Highmark Stadium home of the Buffalo Bills in western New York has involved something just outside of the building.
Bills fans have a lot of Buffalo pride in them and if there was one request the fans had for the new venue? It was to display exactly that with bison statues outside of the front door.
Previously Bills Wire shared the installment of the first bison. Now the whole family is in place.
Check out a collection of views of the whole bison lot below:
21 days ago
Some might call this Aaron Rodgers' last dance.
"Last rodeo" is fitting as well. And that's what the quarterback appears to prefer these days, writing on Instagram following a team bonding week out West: "Last rodeo."
The Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback and some of his offensive teammates got out of the city just over two weeks before reporting for what's expected to be his final training camp.
And Rodgers and his boys all looked ready for a rodeo.
In a remote setting with nothing but open land and mountains serving as the backdrop, the crew road horses, wore their best flannel and cowboy hats, went on paddleboards, road dirt bikes, chatted over an open fire pit and took in nature before the grueling NFL season gets underway.
"Last rodeo" is fitting as well. And that's what the quarterback appears to prefer these days, writing on Instagram following a team bonding week out West: "Last rodeo."
The Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback and some of his offensive teammates got out of the city just over two weeks before reporting for what's expected to be his final training camp.
And Rodgers and his boys all looked ready for a rodeo.
In a remote setting with nothing but open land and mountains serving as the backdrop, the crew road horses, wore their best flannel and cowboy hats, went on paddleboards, road dirt bikes, chatted over an open fire pit and took in nature before the grueling NFL season gets underway.
21 days ago
When does the college football season start? When is Week 0 of the college football season? These are questions that search engines would like me to optimize for you.
Well, well, well.
Long time, no talk.
Never mind the horseshoes, it’s time to preview the main course—or, at least, to load up on bread before the meal gets here, we burp, and say “Fuck it, I’m on vacation.”
Whatever tortured metaphor
Well, well, well.
Long time, no talk.
Never mind the horseshoes, it’s time to preview the main course—or, at least, to load up on bread before the meal gets here, we burp, and say “Fuck it, I’m on vacation.”
Whatever tortured metaphor
22 days ago
While the big names in the MLB draft are all gone after the first day (or essentially committed to going to or back to college next year), there are future big leaguers every year in the second or third day of the draft. Recent Royals draft picks outside of the first 150 picks in the last decade to make it to the big leagues include David Sandlin, Noah Cameron, Anthony Veneziano, Noah Murdock, Vinnie Pasquantino, Tyler Tolbert, Austin ******* , Jonathan Heasley, Nate Eaton, Tyler Zuber, Brewer Hicklen, Nicky Lopez, and Richard Lovelady.
Can anyone from today join them? Only time will tell, but let's not forget: being drafted at all is an incredible achievement. Only 5% of the roughly 10,000 draft-eligible NCAA baseball players every year are selected by an MLB team.
McElvain transferred from Vanderbilt and moved completely to the bullpen, where he threw 38.1 innings, struck out 34.4% of batters, and had a 1.88 ERA. He stands at a hefty 6' 4", 250 lbs. Rated by MLB as the 144th-best prospect in the draft.
Another bullpen arm, LeGuernic is young to be drafted as a junior—he doesn't turn 21 until October—and had a 4.69 ERA in 19 games. Rated by MLB as the 220th-best player in the draft.
A starting pitcher, Vigue started 16 games for the Bulldogs with a 4.43 ERA against tough SEC competition. Rated by MLB as the 201st-best player in the draft.
Can anyone from today join them? Only time will tell, but let's not forget: being drafted at all is an incredible achievement. Only 5% of the roughly 10,000 draft-eligible NCAA baseball players every year are selected by an MLB team.
McElvain transferred from Vanderbilt and moved completely to the bullpen, where he threw 38.1 innings, struck out 34.4% of batters, and had a 1.88 ERA. He stands at a hefty 6' 4", 250 lbs. Rated by MLB as the 144th-best prospect in the draft.
Another bullpen arm, LeGuernic is young to be drafted as a junior—he doesn't turn 21 until October—and had a 4.69 ERA in 19 games. Rated by MLB as the 220th-best player in the draft.
A starting pitcher, Vigue started 16 games for the Bulldogs with a 4.43 ERA against tough SEC competition. Rated by MLB as the 201st-best player in the draft.
22 days ago
Take a look at some answers to frequently asked questions about The Open:
What you call it has historically depended on where you were. If you were in the U.S., you called it the British Open, just as Europeans refer to the PGA Championship as the U.S. PGA. Outside the U.S. it generally has been referred to as The Open Championship. The preferred name of the organizers is The Open.
It's the oldest golf championship, dating back to 1860.
There is a rotation – or "rota" – of courses used. Currently there are nine: Royal Birkdale, Royal St. George's, Royal Liverpool and Royal Lytham and St. Annes, all in England; Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland and St. Andrews, Carnoustie, Royal Troon and Muirfield, all in Scotland. Muirfield was removed from the rota in 2016 when members voted against allowing female members, but when the vote was reversed in 2017 it was allowed back in. Turnberry, site of Tom Watson's 1977 "Duel in the Sun" win over Jack Nicklaus and Watson's loss to Stewart Cink in 2009, is effectively not part of the rota. Then-R&A chief Martin Slumbers said in 2021 that The Open would not return to Turnberry "under current circumstances" (with Donald Trump as its owner).
Royal Birkdale in Southport, England. Birkdale has previously hosted 10 Opens. The winners have been: Jordan Spieth (2017), Padraig Harrington (2008), Mark O'Meara (1998), Ian Baker-Finch (1991), Tom Watson (1983), Johnny Miller (1976), Lee Trevino (1971), Arnold Palmer (1961), Peter Thomson (1954 and 1965).
What you call it has historically depended on where you were. If you were in the U.S., you called it the British Open, just as Europeans refer to the PGA Championship as the U.S. PGA. Outside the U.S. it generally has been referred to as The Open Championship. The preferred name of the organizers is The Open.
It's the oldest golf championship, dating back to 1860.
There is a rotation – or "rota" – of courses used. Currently there are nine: Royal Birkdale, Royal St. George's, Royal Liverpool and Royal Lytham and St. Annes, all in England; Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland and St. Andrews, Carnoustie, Royal Troon and Muirfield, all in Scotland. Muirfield was removed from the rota in 2016 when members voted against allowing female members, but when the vote was reversed in 2017 it was allowed back in. Turnberry, site of Tom Watson's 1977 "Duel in the Sun" win over Jack Nicklaus and Watson's loss to Stewart Cink in 2009, is effectively not part of the rota. Then-R&A chief Martin Slumbers said in 2021 that The Open would not return to Turnberry "under current circumstances" (with Donald Trump as its owner).
Royal Birkdale in Southport, England. Birkdale has previously hosted 10 Opens. The winners have been: Jordan Spieth (2017), Padraig Harrington (2008), Mark O'Meara (1998), Ian Baker-Finch (1991), Tom Watson (1983), Johnny Miller (1976), Lee Trevino (1971), Arnold Palmer (1961), Peter Thomson (1954 and 1965).
23 days ago
Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez has reached the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup following Argentina’s dramatic 3-1 win over Switzerland on Saturday, 11 July. The left-footed defender has been indispensable for the reigning champions at this summer’s spectacle, featuring in five of the six games so far.
Martinez has been relatively injury-free this year and played a major role in the Red Devils’ march to third place in the Premier League table last season. The Butcher suffered an ACL injury in February last year, which kept him out for almost the entire first half of the 2025/26 campaign.
However, the Argentine was outstanding for the English giants after his return in November and has continued that run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He helped La Albiceleste keep clean sheets in the first two group stage games before being rested for the third match against Jordan.
Martinez was outstanding in the 3-2 win over Cabo Verde and **** ured against Egypt in that remarkable 3-2 comeback victory. The United man understandably retained his place in the starting XI against Switzerland, as Lionel Scaloni named an unchanged starting XI for the tie.
Switzerland started the game stronger, but it was Argentina who took the lead in the 10th minute through Alexis Mac Allister. The European nation, however, refused to back down and continued to pile the pressure on reigning champions’ defence.
Martinez has been relatively injury-free this year and played a major role in the Red Devils’ march to third place in the Premier League table last season. The Butcher suffered an ACL injury in February last year, which kept him out for almost the entire first half of the 2025/26 campaign.
However, the Argentine was outstanding for the English giants after his return in November and has continued that run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He helped La Albiceleste keep clean sheets in the first two group stage games before being rested for the third match against Jordan.
Martinez was outstanding in the 3-2 win over Cabo Verde and **** ured against Egypt in that remarkable 3-2 comeback victory. The United man understandably retained his place in the starting XI against Switzerland, as Lionel Scaloni named an unchanged starting XI for the tie.
Switzerland started the game stronger, but it was Argentina who took the lead in the 10th minute through Alexis Mac Allister. The European nation, however, refused to back down and continued to pile the pressure on reigning champions’ defence.
23 days ago
Raynham's Brody ***** ila is Texas bound.
On Saturday, July 11, the former Bishop Feehan ace, 2025-26 MaxPreps Male National Athlete of the Year and 2025-26 Gatorade Massachusetts Baseball Player of the Year was selected 89th overall by the Texas Rangers in the 2026 MLB Draft at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.
The 6-foot-9 southpaw, who made national headlines and attracted hordes of MLB scouts all spring with a fastball that regularly topped triple digits, went 5-0, giving up nine runs (seven earned) on eight hits and 14 walks while striking out 96 (including a Feehan record 20 batters on senior night in his lone complete game) in 44⅓ innings of work while working on a pitch and inning limit, leading the Shamrocks to an appearance in the MIAA Division 1 final.
If he signs, it could be some time before ***** ila takes the mound for any of the Rangers' affiliates. As on Monday, July 6, he shared an MRI with MLB teams that showed he had suffered another injury to his UCL in his left throwing arm, which he previously had internal brace surgery on in 2025. If it requires surgery, ***** ila could be sidelined for over a year.
Still, the 18-year-old's clear talent and potential was enough to convince the Rangers to take a chance on him, who will now look to work with ***** ila to prepare for his return to the mound and a chance at his lifelong dream of pitching in the majors.
On Saturday, July 11, the former Bishop Feehan ace, 2025-26 MaxPreps Male National Athlete of the Year and 2025-26 Gatorade Massachusetts Baseball Player of the Year was selected 89th overall by the Texas Rangers in the 2026 MLB Draft at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.
The 6-foot-9 southpaw, who made national headlines and attracted hordes of MLB scouts all spring with a fastball that regularly topped triple digits, went 5-0, giving up nine runs (seven earned) on eight hits and 14 walks while striking out 96 (including a Feehan record 20 batters on senior night in his lone complete game) in 44⅓ innings of work while working on a pitch and inning limit, leading the Shamrocks to an appearance in the MIAA Division 1 final.
If he signs, it could be some time before ***** ila takes the mound for any of the Rangers' affiliates. As on Monday, July 6, he shared an MRI with MLB teams that showed he had suffered another injury to his UCL in his left throwing arm, which he previously had internal brace surgery on in 2025. If it requires surgery, ***** ila could be sidelined for over a year.
Still, the 18-year-old's clear talent and potential was enough to convince the Rangers to take a chance on him, who will now look to work with ***** ila to prepare for his return to the mound and a chance at his lifelong dream of pitching in the majors.
23 days ago
For all of the attention Erling Haaland gets for his goals, one of the most underrated parts of his game is how consistently he wins individual duels. Whether it is battling center-backs in the air, shielding the ball with his back to goal, or simply overpowering defenders in a foot race, Haaland gives his team a physical advantage that few strikers in world football can match.
At 6-foot-4 with elite strength and remarkable acceleration, Haaland is uniquely built to dominate defenders in multiple ways. He is not just a target man who thrives on crosses. He wins shoulder-to-shoulder battles, fights through contact inside the penalty area, and frequently turns seemingly lost ***** into scoring opportunities by refusing to give up on a play. His combination of size, balance, and explosiveness often forces defenders into mistakes because they know they have almost no margin for error.
For Manchester City in 2025/26, Haaland won 126 ground duels and another 87 in the air. His presence can make a difference and it is being felt for Norway at the World Cup.
What makes Haaland especially dangerous is that he pairs those physical gifts with excellent timing and movement. He understands when to attack ***** e, when to hold up play, and when to challenge for aerial ***** . Even when he does not score, his ability to win duels creates second-ball opportunities for teammates and helps his side maintain possession in advanced areas.
As defenders continue to become faster and more athletic, winning individual battles remains one of the most valuable traits a striker can possess. Haaland has turned that skill into one of the foundations of his success. Goals will always define his career, but the relentless way he competes and wins duels is a major reason why he continues to rank among the most feared forwards in the game.
At 6-foot-4 with elite strength and remarkable acceleration, Haaland is uniquely built to dominate defenders in multiple ways. He is not just a target man who thrives on crosses. He wins shoulder-to-shoulder battles, fights through contact inside the penalty area, and frequently turns seemingly lost ***** into scoring opportunities by refusing to give up on a play. His combination of size, balance, and explosiveness often forces defenders into mistakes because they know they have almost no margin for error.
For Manchester City in 2025/26, Haaland won 126 ground duels and another 87 in the air. His presence can make a difference and it is being felt for Norway at the World Cup.
What makes Haaland especially dangerous is that he pairs those physical gifts with excellent timing and movement. He understands when to attack ***** e, when to hold up play, and when to challenge for aerial ***** . Even when he does not score, his ability to win duels creates second-ball opportunities for teammates and helps his side maintain possession in advanced areas.
As defenders continue to become faster and more athletic, winning individual battles remains one of the most valuable traits a striker can possess. Haaland has turned that skill into one of the foundations of his success. Goals will always define his career, but the relentless way he competes and wins duels is a major reason why he continues to rank among the most feared forwards in the game.
24 days ago
Several North Carolina baseball players are expected to become former Tar Heels this weekend as they take the next step in their careers in the MLB draft.
Five members of North Carolina's 2026 squad are expected to be drafted: Owen Hull, Jake Schaffner, Ryan Lynch, Jason DeCaro and Gavin Gallaher. They all appeared in ESPN's final MLB Draft rankings and MLB's Top 250 Draft Prospects list.
Another player, incoming freshman outfielder Harrison Ailshie of East Rowan High School (Salisbury, N.C.) also earned a spot in ESPN's final rankings.
Players selected this weekend have until 5 p.m. ET on July 27 to sign. Each pick in the first 10 rounds carries an ****** igned slot value, though teams can go over or under that figure.
Owen Hull (Junior)ESPN: No. 62MLB: No. 67Slot value: $1,382,600
Five members of North Carolina's 2026 squad are expected to be drafted: Owen Hull, Jake Schaffner, Ryan Lynch, Jason DeCaro and Gavin Gallaher. They all appeared in ESPN's final MLB Draft rankings and MLB's Top 250 Draft Prospects list.
Another player, incoming freshman outfielder Harrison Ailshie of East Rowan High School (Salisbury, N.C.) also earned a spot in ESPN's final rankings.
Players selected this weekend have until 5 p.m. ET on July 27 to sign. Each pick in the first 10 rounds carries an ****** igned slot value, though teams can go over or under that figure.
Owen Hull (Junior)ESPN: No. 62MLB: No. 67Slot value: $1,382,600
24 days ago
A new system of elite sport funding in Germany has moved closer after the Bundestag approved a bill by 561 votes to 43 on Friday.
The bill is intended to make German athletes internationally competitive again after years of mixed results at Olympics and other events. The Bundesrat upper house will hold final deliberations in the coming months before the law can come into force.
The core of the reforms is the establishment of an independent elite sport agency based in Leipzig. The agency is set to start work in 2027 and independently distribute tax money to athletes and sports **** ociations, cutting current bureaucracy.
"The law provides a good basis from which we can build success," German Olympic Sports Confederation president Thomas Weikert said in a statement.
"We want to take Germany back to the world elite of sport. We want to shape a system that produces sustainably top performance."
The bill is intended to make German athletes internationally competitive again after years of mixed results at Olympics and other events. The Bundesrat upper house will hold final deliberations in the coming months before the law can come into force.
The core of the reforms is the establishment of an independent elite sport agency based in Leipzig. The agency is set to start work in 2027 and independently distribute tax money to athletes and sports **** ociations, cutting current bureaucracy.
"The law provides a good basis from which we can build success," German Olympic Sports Confederation president Thomas Weikert said in a statement.
"We want to take Germany back to the world elite of sport. We want to shape a system that produces sustainably top performance."
24 days ago
The Diamond League season continues with a fascinating field in action in Monaco.
The men’s 100m looks packed with quality, with Oblique Seville, Letsile Tebogo and Jordan Anthony all in action – though Marcell Jacobs has been forced to withdraw after a rapid wind-assisted time recently.
The women’s sprinters will be on show in the 200 metres, too, with Olympic 100m champion Julien Alfred battling Gabrielle Thomas, winner over the longer distance at Paris 2024.
British interest includes middle-distance star Jake Wightman and Alex Yee, with the triathlete looking to lower his personal best in a rare track outing in what could be a fast and furious 5000m.
Here’s everything you need to know.
The men’s 100m looks packed with quality, with Oblique Seville, Letsile Tebogo and Jordan Anthony all in action – though Marcell Jacobs has been forced to withdraw after a rapid wind-assisted time recently.
The women’s sprinters will be on show in the 200 metres, too, with Olympic 100m champion Julien Alfred battling Gabrielle Thomas, winner over the longer distance at Paris 2024.
British interest includes middle-distance star Jake Wightman and Alex Yee, with the triathlete looking to lower his personal best in a rare track outing in what could be a fast and furious 5000m.
Here’s everything you need to know.
