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  • Rams open 2024 regular season at Lions on Sunday Night Football

    Rams open 2024 regular season at Lions on Sunday Night Football

    Notable Lions additions

    • Selected Alabama CB Terrion Arnold No. 31 overall in this year’s draft: One of the Lions’ biggest offseason focuses was remaking their secondary, and drafting Arnold represented one of the moves toward that goal. The 2023 First-Team All-American tied for the SEC lead with five interceptions last season.
    • Signed K Jake Bates on June 18: Bates garnered national attention with his 64-yard, game-winning field goal in his United Football League debut this spring, and after joining the Lions this summer, eventually won the starting kicker job over veteran Michael Badgley.

    Top performers in 2023

    QB Jared Goff completed 407 of 605 pass attempts (67.3%) for 4,575 yards with 30 touchdowns against 12 interceptions.

    RBs David Montgomery (219 carries for 1,015 yards and 13 touchdowns) and Jahmyr Gibbs (182 carries for 945 yards and 10 touchdowns) helmed Detroit’s backfield.

    WR Amon-Ra St. Brown led Lions receivers with 119 catches for 1,515 yards and 10 touchdowns in a breakout third season.

    DE Aidan Hutchinson’s 11.5 sacks paced Detroit’s defense, which also had three different DBs record at least three interceptions: Kerby Joseph (four), Brian Branch (three) and Jerry Jacobs (three).

    On special teams, K Riley Patterson made 15 of 17 field goal attempts and 35 of 37 extra point attempts, while P Jack Fox averaged 46.4 yards per punt across 57 punts.

    Early storylines to watch, and what they mean for the Rams

    While much will be made about this being a rematch of the thrilling wild card playoff game from last season between the two teams, the focuses should be on the line of scrimmage and in each team’s secondary.

    The Rams will be without starting left tackle Alaric Jackson, while tackle Rob Havenstein’s status is still to be determined. Add in the fact that head coach Sean McVay said there’s a “good possibility” Jonah Jackson starts at center rather than Steve Avila for the season-opener, and Los Angeles’ offensive line combination could look much different than what either team envisioned when this matchup was announced back in late May.

    Both teams also changed up their secondaries, so it will be interesting to see how that plays out respective to each passing attack. Cornerback is where the most turnover was – the Rams signed Tre’Davious White, Darious Williams and Kam Curl; the Lions acquired Carlton Davis III in a trade with the Buccaneers, drafted Arnold and signed Amik Robertson. Compared to the lineups from the wild card playoff game, each defense will have three new starters in their secondaries, factoring in the safety position as well.

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  • Florida State vs. Boston College prediction: College football odds, picks

    Florida State vs. Boston College prediction: College football odds, picks

    Florida State returns from Ireland hoping to bounce back from a shocking 24-21 loss to Georgia Tech in the Aer Lingus College Football Classic.

    On Monday night, the Seminoles host Boston College, which begins a new era under coach Bill O’Brien.

    While the line remained flat at -10.5 in the opener against Georgia Tech, we’ve seen a massive shift in the odds this week, with Florida State down to -16.5 from an early open of -23.5.

    In this preview, I’ll share my plan on how bettors can still recover some value, even at the current price.

    Florida State vs. Boston College odds

    Team Spread Moneyline Total
    Boston College +16.5 (-110) +575 o51.5 (-108)
    Florida State -16.5 (-110) -850 u51.5 (-112)
    Odds via DraftKings

    Boston College outlook

    When these teams met last season, Boston College came close to an outright win as a 27.5-point underdog, losing, 31-29.

    The Seminoles would go on to finish undefeated in the regular season but failed to receive an invite to the College Football Playoffs following an injury to starting quarterback Jordan Travis.

    That 2023 Florida State roster was one of the best in school history, considering it had 10 players drafted, just one short of tying the ACC record it set in 2013.

    Boston College, meanwhile, returns the 12th-most starters in college football, per 247 Sports, with seven each on offense and defense an two on special teams.

    Thus, the cupboards aren’t entirely barren for O’Brien as he returns to college football after recently serving as the Patriots’ offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach.

    O’Brien is widely regarded as an offensive guru who can inject dynamism into this Eagles team that ranked 115th in pass play percentage (41.49%) last year under former head coach Steve Addazio.

    Florida State outlook

    It’s been somewhat of a bumpy ride for DJ Uiagalelei since joining the college ranks. The California product is now playing for his second team in as many years after transferring from Clemson following the 2022 campaign.

    Many thought Uiagalelei would be next up in the line of Clemson’s great quarterbacks after Deshaun Watson and Trevor Lawrence. 

    However, the red-shirt senior has struggled to meet those lofty expectations. 


    DJ Uiagalelei had an efficient 2024 debut last week against Georgia Tech.
    DJ Uiagalelei had an efficient 2024 debut last week against Georgia Tech. Sportsfile via Getty Images

    Uiagalelei is a quarterback who is likely to divide opinions. You could argue that Seminoles coach Mike Norvell didn’t have enough trust in Uiagalelei to open up the playbook against Georgia Tech.

    Despite being efficient and completing 19-of-27 (70.4%) pass attempts without throwing an interception, Uiagalelei resorted to checkdowns and didn’t push the ball down the field. 

    He wound up finishing the game with 193 passing yards.

    Boston College vs. Florida State pick

    The Seminoles received a considerable downgrade in my power ratings as numbers make them closer to a 14-point favorite against Boston College.

    Nonetheless, I’d much rather have odds closer to the opening number of +23.5.

    Thus, a better option would be to take advantage of some alternate FanDuel lines by parlaying Eagles at +21.5, with the game going over 44.5 points.

    Betting on College Football?

    This combination would boost our odds up to +131. 

    Although I was a bit harsh regarding my critique of Uiagalelei’s performance, it’s worth noting that he did encounter double-digit winds and rainy conditions at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin.

    The weather in Tallahassee should be much more manageable, with clear skies and wind speeds less than five mph.

    I expect both teams to have enough offense to surpass this alternate total.

    Pick: Same-game parlay (+131, FanDuel): Boston College +21.5 points | Over 44.5 points

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  • 2024 Fantasy Football Draft Guidelines for the Cincinnati Bengals

    2024 Fantasy Football Draft Guidelines for the Cincinnati Bengals

    With the regular season quickly approaching, exactly a week away, fantasy football season is upon us.

    It’s time to strategize for your draft. Depending on your league settings, you will have to approach your draft with certain guidelines, such as the best positions for each round and the number of players in each position.

    There are several different types of fantasy leagues, but I’ve only been involved in two types in the last several years, both Points Per Reception (PPR). You have a traditional league with a regular lineup, including D/ST and a K, but you also have leagues with a flex player and a super flex player, and this is where you have to pay attention early in the draft.

    So, the question is, where should you draft different Cincinnati Bengals players?

    Traditional

    Joe Burrow – Rounds 4-6. In traditional leagues, most quarterbacks aren’t drafted until the middle rounds, but Burrow is an obvious starter.

    Ja’Marr Chase – Rounds 1-3. The only reason I give multiple rounds for Uno is simply due to the current situation. Unfortunately, do we know if he’s going to play in Week 1 or further? No. If he does play, he’s an obvious round 1 choice.

    Tee Higgins – Rounds 2-3. Higgins signed his franchise tag, and he has reported and played. He will be playing this season, and he will make an impact like normal.

    Andre Iosivas – Rounds 6-8. You could draft him earlier, but Yoshi is not a big name yet, so you could very easily steal him in a later round. I’m expecting a big year for Yoshi as he fills the role of Boyd.

    Jermaine Burton – Rounds 8+. It’s been obvious that Burton is a very talented receiver, but there are simply too many starters ahead of him. He could be a potential late-round pickup.

    Evan McPherson – Rounds 9+. McPherson is an elite kicker, and he can put up points. You have to be careful drafting kickers too early or too late. You don’t want to skip over solid players to get a kicker, but you also don’t want to wait too long to get a kicker.

    D/ST – Rounds 8+. The defense and special teams is similar to the kicker. You can’t draft them too early, but you definitely can’t draft too late. I think the Bengals are a top-10 defense, and I believe they will put up points with turnovers.

    Chase Brown – Rounds 3-5. You have to remember there are still some teams with one primary back who will get 95% of the carries. Those players will be your round 1-3 players. But Brown is a versatile player, and he is a dual threat on the ground and receiving.

    Zack Moss – Rounds 3-5. I would put him and Brown in the same rounds. I think he and Brown will both capitalize this year and put up points.

    Mike Gesicki – Rounds 7-9. I don’t think he will be picked early by many people, but if you look at tight ends track records with Burrow, it’s very positive. This is Gesicki’s third team, and I believe he will surprise some people in the red zone. He will be a good late-round tight end.

    FLEX/SUPER FLEX:

    Not much changes for the Bengals switching to a flex league, simply because the Bengals are a multi-tool team. They use everyone versus some teams that primarily use just a few players. I may change one player.

    Burrow – Rounds 3-5. I’m keeping Burrow in about the same area, but you can pick him a round or two earlier. Burrow is on a revenge tour and he has weapons, he will put up points.

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  • Paralympics fans learn when to be silent for sports like blind football and goalball

    Paralympics fans learn when to be silent for sports like blind football and goalball

    PARIS (AP) — A smooth voice from the loudspeaker reminds the stressed crowd: “Shhh. Shhh.”

    The whistle blows.

    Instantly, spectators fall silent and even the slightest noise echoes via the Eiffel Tower Stadium. Followers pack the stadium, however at instances, it’s onerous to inform. One of these ambiance is unthinkable in most sports activities venues, however particularly in a sport like soccer, whose followers are maybe finest identified for rowdiness.

    However this isn’t extraordinary soccer. That is blind soccer, one among two silent sports activities on the 2024 Paris Paralympic Video games.

    A volunteer for the Paralympic Video games holds an indication studying “Silence s’il-vous-plaît, Quiet Please” through the mens’ United States versus France goalball recreation through the Paralympic Video games in Paris on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2024. (AP Photograph/Felix Scheyer)

    Blind soccer and goalball are for athletes with visible impairments. When sensory enter is lowered in a single space, different senses choose up the slack; with out sight, sound takes middle stage.

    The ball in each sports activities incorporates a rattle or bell alerting gamers to its approximate location. Gamers yell out to one another as they navigate the sector and followers are required to comprise their pleasure till the ball is out of play. Each sports activities domesticate an setting in contrast to another. With out fixed chatter and chanting, followers’ vitality manifests as a gentle concentrate on the sector of play.

    Jeferson “Jefinho” Goncalves, Brazil’s star blind soccer participant, stated via a translator that he and his teammates felt the gang can also be into the sport and reacting to each second, and that they felt the vitality on the court docket.

    French fan Jade Sidot, 18, stated blind soccer calls for a unique diploma of consideration.

    “My dad and I’m going to some soccer video games,” stated Sidot, referring to her experiences at able-bodied video games. “(Blind soccer) could be very totally different, however on the identical time I’m extra targeted.”

    Followers not used to those sports activities could really feel awkward navigating the brand new guidelines. To ease the stress, a goalball commentator lets followers know they’re allowed to talk: “Noise.” A bit apprehensive at first, the gang slowly will increase their quantity to cheer.

    Occasion attendees cheer whereas waving French flags through the mens’ United States versus France goalball recreation through the Paralympic Video games in Paris on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2024. (AP Photograph/Felix Scheyer)

    Throughout halftime and between vital performs, a runner takes the blind soccer discipline with a big signal that explicitly reads “GET LOUD!!!!” Often, cues like this construct momentum amongst spectators who’re already cheering. Right here, they’re really directions.

    Even with the official go-ahead, some new followers let their patriotism override decorum whereas others sit confused.

    “It’s type of humorous as a result of I feel individuals within the stands are afraid, they don’t know when to cheer, however I do know the sport,” stated Eliana Mason, a Paralympic goalball participant who incessantly helps her fiance, fellow Paralympian and goalball participant Calahan Younger, at his matches. “It’s silent, I’ll be like, ‘Let’s go!’ Individuals have a look at me and I’m like, it’s positive, I do know after I can cheer and never cheer.”

    In these moments when cheering is allowed, it’s thunderous. Spectators from the Netherlands agreed that when it occurs, the applause is way louder than in non-silent sports activities.

    “I’ve the thought that you’re with them within the recreation after they rating,” stated Dutch fan Jamie Koudijs, 23, who by no means attended a silent sporting occasion earlier than at the moment. “All of us go loopy, like, you probably did it! As a result of they’ll’t see what they’re doing.”

    That back-and-forth dynamic may distract opponents. Jefinho expressed that it may be troublesome to go get the ball if the gang fails to “shhh” on the proper time, however he additionally stated he’s optimistic that these issues will begin to go away as blind soccer grows in recognition.

    A fan waves a French flag whereas cheering through the mens’ United States versus France goalball recreation through the Paralympic Video games in Paris on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2024. (AP Photograph/Felix Scheyer)

    Jefinho stated that as an increasing number of persons are getting used to blind soccer, the gang might be getting used to the noise guidelines and studying the setting.

    One aspect that followers come again to, time and again, is that they really feel their silence equates to respect—not solely to the gamers, however to the sports activities themselves.

    “It’s totally different how they act and the way they respect the gamers,” Brazilian fan Joaquim Mendes, 15, stated of followers within the Eiffel Tower Stadium. He attended a blind soccer recreation between Brazil and Turkey, which Brazil gained 3-0.

    “I feel the vitality is similar,” added Sidot, who attended the identical recreation. “Regardless that we have now to remain silent, I can really feel that persons are nonetheless actually excited to be right here.”

    ___

    Julianna Russ and Gabriella Etienne are college students within the undergraduate certificates program within the Carmical Sports activities Media Institute on the College of Georgia.

    ___

    AP Paralympics:

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  • DeMar DeRozan Joins Football Fans in Shock as USC’s Kyron Hudson’s Insane Snag Stuns LSU

    DeMar DeRozan Joins Football Fans in Shock as USC’s Kyron Hudson’s Insane Snag Stuns LSU

    College football is back with a bang and nothing could have added more to the hype than the insane one-handed catch by USC’s Kyron Hudson! It made the fans go berserk and all appreciation posts that poured in had Hudson’s name shining through. Amidst the deluge of fan reactions, one in particular caught the attention of NBA enthusiasts. It was DeMar DeRozan joining in the celebration of that craziness-induced Hudson antic, leaving everyone in awe!

    Now the USC wide receiver is known for his stunning snags and a handful of impressive grabs, but this one truly left the fans stunned. Quite literally! Being an ex-Trojan himself, DeMar DeRozan couldn’t keep his shock to himself. Week 1 has only kick-started and the game against LSU provided a remarkable start to the USC and turned Hudson into an overnight Internet sensation!

    Some fans are calling it the Catch of the Year and considering how superhumanly quick it was, one couldn’t agree more.

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    DeMar DeRozan – A fan who never ceases to celebrate real sensational action when he sees it, among others crowning Kyron Hudson in the Top 3

    A few weeks back, DeMar DeRozan was featured on a grateful JuJu Watkins‘ Instagram story when he stepped on the court to perform a live demonstration. He was showing her the tactics of breaching the hypothetical defensive wall. After the much-helpful lesson with the pro tips, the NBA All-Star is up and out praising another USC sensation for his incredible one-hand snag.

    Hudson put on a power-packed show of athletic agility on the field as he got behind a pair of LSU defenders and before anyone could register what was happening, he was already up. Insanely snagging onto the ball with one hand! Can you believe that? Lauding this craziness, DeMar DeRozan showed how he had been left in utter shock by writing, “Kyron Hudson!”

    The fans too were in awe of this legendary snag, some even comparing it to Beckham’s from 2014. “Catch rankings: 1. Kyron Hudson 2. Justin Jefferson against the Bills 3. Odell Beckham Jr,” a fan wrote. This was a reference to the Minnesota Vikings’ wide receiver Jefferson’s one-handed catch of the year against the Bills, which was regarded as the craziest moment in football in 2022. Jefferson was certainly at the right place at the right time, and the catch was proof of the excellence he brings to the game.

    Another NFL fan-favorite moment is the iconic one-handed catch of Odell Beckham for the Giants in their 2014 match against the Dallas Cowboys. To top it off, this unforgettable career-best feat happened during his rookie NFL season. And now Hudson joins the elite club of remarkable catches that made NFL history! Right after witnessing the insane Hudson feat, ESPN play-by-play man Rece Davis said, “I know Odell Beckham played for LSU but that was OBJ-esque right there.”

    Considering that Hudson came into this season with a stat line of just 34 catches for 345 yards and a dismal 5 touchdowns through his past 3 seasons with USC, this feat was a much-needed breather for him. DeRozan, with a keen eye for talented sports personalities, jumped in to give him the much-deserved pat on the back.

    The thrill of the catch persisted way into the night with fans clamoring for it to get its spot in the Top 10. One of them wrote, “Unreal catch! Kyron Hudson with the one-handed magic—definitely deserves a spot in the Top 10!” SportsCenter shared the same sentiment stating, “THIS ONE-HANDED GRAB BY KYRON HUDSON  #SCTOP10″

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    Initially, it seemed Hudson had to bobble the ball a little but upon an official review, the 24-yard gain for the USC stood confirmed. This was definitely what a fan called a “Flying beast catch”! Apart from the NBA star DeRozan, the catch even garnered the attention of USC’s former quarterback, Caleb Williams, who tagged Hudson, stating, “10 you’re insane”.

    While the snags on the football ground will continue, there’s much to look out for in DeMar DeRozan’s hardwood action as well as the NBA season rolls out. But one thing’s for sure- USC has an enviable record of Trojan wonders who keep sending shock waves across their respective sports!

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    Before you go, do not forget to check out this crossover between BG12 and Georgia Bulldogs star Asia Avinger

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  • Judging Michigan football Week 1 overreactions

    Judging Michigan football Week 1 overreactions

    The Michigan Wolverines fought tooth and nail against a scrappy Fresno State team on Saturday night at the Big House, and ultimately came out with a 30-10 victory. It wasn’t pretty by any means, but it’s something to build off with the No. 4 team in the country in the Texas Longhorns coming to town next weekend.

    And because it wasn’t pretty, there are likely some fans out there with some major overreactions to the Week 1 showing. Let’s go through some of these overreactions and see if there is any merit to them.

    This offensive line is not the same caliber as the last three

    The offensive line had, let’s just say, a rough first half of the game. New starting right guard Giovanni El-Hadi gave up a sack in the second quarter, and new starting center Dominick Giudice got pushed back on a third-and-one that resulted in Kalel Mullings getting stuffed at the line of scrimmage. Giudice split time with Greg Crippen after that, so it’ll be interesting to see how the line looks moving forward.

    All in all, the Wolverines had 2.2 yards per carry at halftime, with Donovan Edwards having just five carries and three yards. It all evened out at the end of the game, with the team averaging 4.4 yards per rush, but the play of the line was a bit concerning.

    However, I am definitely NOT going to say this line isn’t the same caliber as the lines from the past three seasons. Even the 2021 offensive line, which took home the Joe Moore Award, took time to mesh. I am optimistic Sherrone Moore and Grant Newsome will right the ship; whether it’s in time for Texas next week is a totally different question.

    Answer: Overreaction

    This U-M wideout room is the worst in a long time

    So yeah…the wide receivers had a pretty bad game against Fresno State — six catches for 34 yards split between Semaj Morgan, Tyler Morris and Kendrick Bell. There was also a dropped ball by Peyton O’Leary, and Fred Moore was targeted on a deep shot that resulted in an interception. The opportunities were there, but the players just couldn’t make any big time plays in this one.

    Look, to say a position group is the worst at Michigan in a long time after Week 1 is clearly an overreaction. However, I do understand the concern about the position, and even share some of those feelings myself. We’ve seen flashes and big plays from Morris and Morgan in the past, so I am not worried in the slightest about those two, but everyone else is an unproven commodity. Michigan needs Morris and Morgan to bring their A-game every game, or this overreaction could turn into a factual statement.

    Answer: An overreaction…for now

    Colston Loveland will lead the team in yards/receptions

    Loveland has been the most talked about tight end in American this offseason, and for good reason. He had a breakout sophomore campaign and is the only returning starter on offense for Michigan. He has everything you could possibly want in a tight end, which is why he is currently projected as a first-round pick in nest spring’s NFL Draft.

    This is probably a fair reaction to have after last night’s game. Loveland is just a freak at the tight end position, catching pretty much every ball that came his way. He finished with eight catches for 87 yards and a touchdown. He is clearly the most reliable player in the receiving game, so if I were a Michigan quarterback, I would be eyeing him every play. It would not stun me if he led the team in receiving yards by a few hundred.

    Answer: Not an overreaction

    Michigan has 2 QBs, which means it has 0 QBs

    Davis Warren got the start for Michigan, but it was Alex Orji coming off the bench to throw the first touchdown pass of the season. However, that was Orji’s only completion of the night and he only threw the ball one other time, which resulted in a poorly thrown ball that went right into the ground.

    Despite Warren’s interception, I didn’t think he played that bad. Pro Football Focus also shares my sentiment, grading him out as the fourth-best offensive player in the game with a 69.7 overall grade. Warren went 15-of-25 for 118 yards, one touchdown and the one pick. He admitted in a postgame interview with Big Ten Network he had some nerves “here and there” — which is understandable considering everything he’s been through — so I will give him a bit of a pass for this game.

    I’m skeptical to say Michigan doesn’t have a quarterback right now, but I can also see myself agreeing with this thought if the overall play of the position doesn’t increase by the time we really dive into the conference portion of the season.

    Answer: Overreaction…for now

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  • Is The First ‘Sunday Night Football’ Game On Tonight? Where To Stream NFL Games On Sunday Nights This Season

    Is The First ‘Sunday Night Football’ Game On Tonight? Where To Stream NFL Games On Sunday Nights This Season

    Football is back! Well… college football is back.

    This weekend featured an array of exciting Week 1 matchups as No. 1 Georgia battled No. 14 Clemson, West Virginia hosted No. 8 Penn State, and Notre Dame traveled to College Station to take on Texas A&M. If you’re looking for some Sunday night pigskin action, USC and LSU square off tonight (September 1) at 7:30 p.m. ET on ABC and ESPN+.

    That’s the college schedule, but what about the pros? Unfortunately, there’s no Sunday Night Football this week. Thankfully, you won’t have to wait too long to hear Carrie Underwood’s catchy tune about waiting all day for a Sunday night.

    Here’s when the first Sunday Night Football game of the 2024-2025 NFL season airs on NBC and Peacock.

    Is There Sunday Night Football Tonight (September 1)?

    Nope. The preseason has concluded. The first SNF game of the regular season takes place Sunday, September 8 when the Detroit Lions host the Los Angeles Rams on NBC and Peacock.

    When Does The NFL Season Start?

    The 2024-2025 season officially begins Thursday, September 5 when the Kansas City Chiefs host the Baltimore Ravens on NBC and Peacock.

    How To Watch Sunday Night Football Online In 2024:

    If you have a valid cable login, Sunday Night Football will be available to watch live on NBC, the NBC app, and NBCSports.com. 2024 Sunday Night Football games will also air on Peacock and NFL+.

    You can also access an NBC live stream with an active subscription to fuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, AT&T TV NOW, or YouTube TV. FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, and YouTube TV offer free trials for eligible subscribers.

    Sunday Night Football 2024 Schedule:

    • Week 1 (September 8): Los Angeles Rams @ Detroit Lions (8:20 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock)
    • Week 2 (September 15): Chicago Bears @ Houston Texans (8:20 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock)
    • Week 3 (September 22): Kansas City Chiefs @ Atlanta Falcons (8:20 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock)
    • Week 4 (September 29): Buffalo Bills @ Baltimore Ravens (8:20 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock)
    • Week 5 (October 6): Dallas Cowboys @ Pittsburgh Steelers (8:20 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock)
    • Week 6 (October 13): Cincinnati Bengals @ New York Giants (8:20 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock)
    • Week 7 (October 20): New York Jets @ Pittsburgh Steelers (8:20 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock)
    • Week 8 (October 27): Dallas Cowboys @ San Francisco 49ers (8:20 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock)
    • Week 9 (November 3): Jacksonville Jaguars @ Philadelphia Eagles (8:20 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock)
    • Week 10 (November 10): Detroit Lions @ Houston Texans (8:20 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock)
    • Week 11 (November 17): Indianapolis Colts @ New York Jets (8:20 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock)
    • Week 12 (November 24): Philadelphia Eagles @ Los Angeles Rams (8:20 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock)
    • Week 13 (December 1): San Francisco 49ers @ Buffalo Bills (8:20 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock)
    • Week 14 (December 8): Los Angeles Chargers @ Kansas City Chiefs (8:20 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock)
    • Week 15 (December 15): Green Bay Packers @ Seattle Seahawks (8:20 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock)
    • Week 16 (December 22): Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Dallas Cowboys (8:20 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock)
    • Week 17 (December 29): Miami Dolphins @ Cleveland Browns (8:20 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock)
    • Week 18 (January 5): TBD (8:20 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock)



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  • 10 Most Entertaining Players in Football History [Ranked]

    10 Most Entertaining Players in Football History [Ranked]

    Key Takeaways

    • Some of football’s most entertaining players have come from all over the world.
    • Brazil dominate the rankings with Neymar, Ronaldinho and Ronaldo all ranking highly.
    • Lionel Messi places above Cristiano Ronaldo in the rankings.

    Football is the most popular sport in the world, with billions of people tuning in to watch games every year. The sport is enthralling, with rivalry, jeopardy, drama, and incredible skill being some of the many reasons fans keep on watching.

    The players are what makes the game so special. Fighting for everything they play for, and displaying remarkable qualities on the ball to help their teams succeed. Some players are brilliant at what they do, fitting into their team’s system, and doing the dirty work that sometimes goes unnoticed. Others are there to entertain, such as Neymar or Ronaldinho, who marry up their talent with flair and skill, to grab viewers’ attention. With that in mind, here we will rank the 10 most entertaining players to watch of all time.

    Ranking Factors

    10

    Mario Balotelli

    Career Span: 2006-2024

    MixCollage-28-Aug-2024-06-50-PM-2628

    Mario Balotelli was never far away from the headlines. Initially coming through as a bright young talent at Inter Milan, the Italian striker was tipped for great things.

    In 2010, Balotelli joined Manchester City, and that was where he truly became the entertaining character that everybody knows. Whether it was off the pitch, setting off fireworks in his bathroom, or being dragged off in the first half of a pre-season friendly due to inexplicably deciding to backheel an easy chance, Balotteli was always entertaining.

    Perhaps what epitomised the confidence and showmanship of the Italian, was his famous goal celebration against Man United in 2011. After giving City the lead against their great rivals at Old Trafford, Balotelli lifted his shirt to reveal a message which simply read; ‘Why Always Me?’.

    Mario Balotelli’s Career Statistics

    Appearances

    495

    Goals

    210

    Assists

    43

    9

    Rene Higuita

    Career Span: 1985-2009

    MixCollage-28-Aug-2024-06-47-PM-530

    Generally, when a goalkeeper spends the best years of his career at Atletico Nacional, he is not internationally known and loved. However, that isn’t the case for Rene Higuita. Nicknamed ‘El Loco’, the Columbian shot-stopper became recognised around the world when he performed his own trick, a ‘Scorpion Kick’ against England in 1995, to stop a shot from Jamie Redknapp (although the whistle had already been blown for offside).

    Not only did the former Real Vallodolid man perform one of the most outrageous pieces of skill on a football pitch, but he also scored an absurd number of goals. He finished his career with 43 goals to his name, generally scored from free-kicks and penalties. Rene Higuita is a football icon, and during his career was one of the great entertainers, despite being a goalkeeper.

    Rene Higuita’s Career Statistics

    Appearances

    380

    Goals

    43

    Assists

    0

    8

    Cristiano Ronaldo

    Career Span: 2002-Present

    MixCollage-28-Aug-2024-06-52-PM-9142

    Based on purely goals alone, Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the most entertaining players the game has ever seen. The numbers he has continued to put up throughout his career are staggering, and whenever he plays you just expect him to score.

    As he has aged, the flair and trickery have left him. However, in his younger years, when he first joined Manchester United, he was absolutely electric. Toying with defenders, showboating, and adding goals and assists to match, he was the sort of player people paid good money to watch.

    The sport may never see another like the great Cristiano Ronaldo, and particularly during his younger days, he was an absolute joy to watch, with incredible feet and footballing intelligence to go alongside his ridiculous goal output.

    Cristiano Ronaldo’s Club Career Statistics

    Appearances

    1017

    Goals

    763

    Assists

    240

    7

    Zinedine Zidane

    Career Span: 1989-2006

    MixCollage-28-Aug-2024-06-46-PM-7698

    The French midfield maestro, Zinedine Zidane, is one of the greatest players of all time. His style of play was poetry in motion, gliding past opponents like they weren’t there, alongside having ridiculous technique which made him so watchable.

    Not only did he dominate the midfield whenever he played, but he also had a great eye for goal. The 2002 Champions League final was a great example of this, where Zidane scored a sublime volley to help his Real Madrid side lift their ninth Champions League trophy.

    Yet Zidane wasn’t just entertaining because of his ability, he also had some incredibly rash moments, on the biggest stage. In the 2006 World Cup final, Zinedine Zidane gave France the lead, scoring a ‘Panenka’ style penalty early on, before incredibly being sent off for headbutting Marc Matterazzi. This demonstrated his hot-headed nature, and also cemented him as one of the most entertaining players of all time, as nobody ever knew what he would do next.

    Zinedine Zidane’s Club Career Statistics

    Appearances

    689

    Goals

    125

    Assists

    141

    6

    Pele

    Career Span: 1956-1977

    MixCollage-28-Aug-2024-06-48-PM-6892

    For some people, Pele is the best player of all time, due to his quite outstanding goal record.The Brazilian icon was seen as ahead of his time, possessing unbelievable strength, pace, agility and finishing. He was mainly deployed as a striker, but was also capable of dropping deeper and being more creative, such is the immense talent he possessed.

    Pele broke into the Brazil team, and incredibly won the World Cup at just 17 years of age, which demonstrates just how much quality he possessed. During his days with the national team, Pele wanted to play ‘Samba Football’, where he was able to display flair and have freedom to do what he wanted, which made him excellent to watch.

    Although Pele played in a different era to many others on this list, his legacy remains today, and that is testament to his incredible ability, and how much he was loved during his career.

    Pele’s Career Statistics

    Appearances

    1363

    Goals

    1279

    Assists

    369

    5

    Lionel Messi

    Career Span: 2003-Present

    MixCollage-28-Aug-2024-06-51-PM-2059

    Lionel Messi is the definition of graceful. The Argentinian goes past opponents like they’re not even there, displaying unbelievable footwork and elegance, whilst also providing goal and assist returns that are from another planet.

    Whenever Messi picks up the ball, fans experience so many emotions; expectation, anticipation, and excitement are just a few, with people knowing that the little genius can do something in a split second to get them off their seat.

    Whether it is a defence-splitting pass, a silky dribble, a long-range thunderbolt, or even a cheeky nutmeg, Lionel Messi is incredible to watch, and will always be remembered as a footballing genius.

    Lionel Messi’s Club Career Statistics

    Appearances

    904

    Goals

    735

    Assists

    355

    4

    Jay-Jay Okocha

    Career Span: 1990-2012

    MixCollage-28-Aug-2024-06-45-PM-8885

    Was Jay-Jay Okocha ever the best player in the world? Probably not. But he was one of the most skillful. In terms of entertainment, few can hold a candle to the Nigerian superstar, who was named the BBC’s African footballer of the year in both 2003 and 2004.

    To fully understand how talented Okocha was, Pele once named him one of the most skillful players he had ever seen, and he was able to change the perception of African football alone.

    Fans would tune in just to watch the former PSG and Bolton man play, and see what new trick he had in his locker. He had incredible feet, and a creative mind which allowed him to produce some moves that other players could only dream about. Football will always remember Jay-Jay Okocha, and his ridiculous talent.

    Jay-Jay Okocha’s Career Statistics

    Appearances

    494

    Goals

    101

    Assists

    59

    3

    Ronaldo Nazario

    Career Span: 1993-2011

    MixCollage-28-Aug-2024-06-48-PM-3593

    When a player plays for Barcelona, Real Madrid, AC Milan and Inter Milan, they must be special. Ronaldo possessed explosive speed, and was an incredible finisher, highlighted by his incredible goal record.

    The Brazilian was known for going round the goalkeeper when through on goal, shimmying left and right before finding the net. He was the sort of player fans always loved to watch, with his flair and supreme ability in front of goal.

    Unfortunately, his career was marred by injury, which prevented him becoming even greater. However, the iconic Brazilian striker will always be remembered for his incredible talent and performances throughout his career.

    Ronaldo Nazario’s Career Statistics

    Appearances

    481

    Goals

    309

    Assists

    75

    2

    Neymar Jr

    Career Span: 2009-Present

    MixCollage-28-Aug-2024-06-51-PM-5905

    When Neymar won the 2011 Puskas award as a 19-year-old at Santos, the world began to pay attention. The goal in question displayed Neymar skipping past two opponents, before playing a quick one-two with a teammate, and then performing another ridiculous skill move to create an opening, where he slotted past the goalkeeper.

    Neymar’s confidence and fearlessness are things to marvel at. He is never afraid to try a skill and attempt to embarrass an opponent, regardless of whether they will ultimately try to foul him. The Brazilian is known for executing ‘rainbow flicks’ in games, which demonstrates his flair.

    Not only are his skills something to admire, but especially after joining Barcelona, Neymar’s goal and assists numbers were equally sublime, which is why he will always be viewed as a footballing superstar.

    Neymar’s Career Statistics

    Appearances

    589

    Goals

    360

    Assists

    221

    1

    Ronaldinho

    Career Span: 1998-2015

    MixCollage-28-Aug-2024-06-49-PM-8829

    Nicknamed ‘O Bruxo’ (The Wizard), Ronaldinho is one of a kind. Famed for his use of tricks, including no-look passes, step-overs, overhead kicks, and so many more, Ronaldinho was the ultimate entertainer.

    The Brazilian had a unique blend of technical prowess and creativity, which made him universally loved and admired. Fans would tune into games just to catch a glimpse of the former Barcelona man, and see what his next trick would be.

    His skills were unbelievable, but he was also the best footballer in the world, demonstrated by him winning the 2005 Ballon d’Or award. He was the ultimate footballer; talented, successful, and a joy to watch, with creativity like nobody before. Ronaldinho loved football, and football will always love him back.

    Ronaldinho’s Club Career Statistics

    Appearances

    552

    Goals

    198

    Assists

    168

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  • Eddie Howe cagey over Newcastle future and admits ‘it’s difficult to give any reassurance on anything in football’ – as speculation mounts following a frustrating transfer window

    Eddie Howe cagey over Newcastle future and admits ‘it’s difficult to give any reassurance on anything in football’ – as speculation mounts following a frustrating transfer window

    • Summer saw key positions such as centre-back and right-wing not strengthened 
    • Howe would’ve been powerless to prevent star name leaving  club at end of June
    • LISTEN NOW: It’s All Kicking Off!, available wherever you get your podcasts. New episodes every Monday and Thursday 

    By Craig Hope

    Published: | Updated:

    Eddie Howe admits he cannot give supporters assurances over his Newcastle future – but says his only focus is on staying at the club for a ‘long time’.

    While the England job is open and with the head coach having conceded his frustration at a summer window in which key positions such as centre-back and right-wing were not strengthened, there remains some uncertainty over Howe’s future.

    Asked if he could would consider walking away – like Kevin Keegan had done amid transfer angst in 2009 – Howe said: ‘This isn’t a loaded answer, but it’s difficult to give any reassurance on anything in football. 

    ‘But I absolutely love being Newcastle manager and I’m very proud to do it. 

    ‘No part of me is thinking anything other than trying to beat Tottenham and looking, hopefully, to a long reign here.’

    Eddie Howe admits he cannot give supporters assurances over his Newcastle future

    Eddie Howe admits he cannot give supporters assurances over his Newcastle future

    While the England job is open here remains some uncertainty over Howe's future (pictured: interim England boss Lee Carsley)

    While the England job is open here remains some uncertainty over Howe’s future (pictured: interim England boss Lee Carsley)

    Profit and Sustainability Rules have limited what Newcastle can do in the transfer market, and Howe added: ‘A lot has changed in terms of PSR (since the Saudi-led takeover in 2021). 

    ‘The biggest change, the inability to spend, and our need to comply with rules to prevent a points deduction.

    ‘Of course that impacts the ability to progress the club as quickly as maybe they wanted to. 

    ‘I don’t think the dream dies, necessarily, it takes a lot longer. We have got to build our revenue streams, that is the biggest thing. 

    ‘Bring more money into the football club, however we do that, sponsorship, loads of things.

    ‘That is the big thing we need to focus on in the next 10 years, whether I am lucky enough to see any of that, who knows. 

    ‘So the dream is not over, it is just going to take a lot, lot longer.’

    Meanwhile, Howe admits he would have been powerless to prevent a star name leaving the club at the end of June as Newcastle battled to avoid breaching PSR rules.

    Asked if he could would consider walking away – like Kevin Keegan had done in 2009 - Howe said: 'This isn't a loaded answer but it's difficult to give any reassurance on anything in football'

    Asked if he could would consider walking away – like Kevin Keegan had done in 2009 – Howe said: ‘This isn’t a loaded answer but it’s difficult to give any reassurance on anything in football’

    He added: 'Selling players was a necessity, and it was very difficult to do' (pictured: Elliot Anderson who moved to Nottingham Forest)

    He added: ‘Selling players was a necessity, and it was very difficult to do’ (pictured: Elliot Anderson who moved to Nottingham Forest)

    ‘I can’t act like that (say no to a player leaving),’ he said. ‘It’s not about my want. Especially in June, it was about what the club needs. 

    ‘We could have been sat here with a huge points deduction and everyone would say, “Why didn’t they sell players?”. 

    ‘You have to choose which way you want to go with it, and we couldn’t go down that route (points deduction). Selling players was a necessity, and it was very difficult to do.’

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  • College football winners, losers in Week 1: Nebraska QB Dylan Raiola shines, Florida hits rock bottom

    College football winners, losers in Week 1: Nebraska QB Dylan Raiola shines, Florida hits rock bottom

    The first week of the college football season had everything. There was a heavyweight matchup between No. 7 Notre Dame and No. 20 Texas A&M that came down to the final minutes and national championship contenders showed weaknesses ahead of big Week 2 showdowns. 

    But perhaps the biggest winners and losers are the teams whose fortunes changed in an instant. Florida dug itself a hole against No. 19 Miami that it may be unable to escape. The Fighting Irish may have set up a runway to the College Football Playoff. Clemson could already be heading back to the drawing board for this season. And even better? In Week 2, we’ll decide all over again. 

    Here are some of the biggest winners and losers of college football’s Week 1, including the debuts of a few high-profile prospects that could change the sport. 

    Winner: Class of 2024

    When Nebraska landed Dylan Raiola, he became one of the most high-profile quarterback recruits in school history. It didn’t take long for him to make his presence known. Raiola found receiver Isaiah Neyor for a nearly 60-yard touchdown, one of his two scores in a massive win against UTEP to give Cornhuskers fans their most hope in years.  

    Raiola was only one of several high-profile Class of 2024 recruits to make themselves heard in Week 1. Running backs Taylor Tatum (Oklahoma), Nate Frazier (Georgia) and Jerrick Gibson (Texas) all found the end zone. Defensive end Dylan Stewart (South Carolina) forced a key fumble to survive Old Dominion. 

    The biggest winners of the week might have been the incredible wide receiver class. Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith dropped his first pass and then went on to have 92 yards and two scores. Alabama’s Ryan Williams only had two catches against Western Kentucky, but both were touchdowns and one was for 84 yards. Auburn’s Cam Coleman had 62 yards and a score. This could be an all-time wide receiver class.

    Loser: Oregon

    The Ducks entered 2024 alongside Georgia and Ohio State as the chief national title picks and among the most hyped programs in the sport. It took exactly one game for things to come crashing down. The Ducks escaped Idaho with a 24-14 victory, but the Vandals exposed major holes. 

    Chiefly, the Ducks have major structural issues on the offensive line. After giving up only five total sacks in each of the past two seasons, FCS Idaho sacked Dillon Gabriel three times. Even when adjusting for sacks, the Ducks mustered only 3.8 yards per carry, which was actually worse than the Vandals. Oregon failed on two fourth-down conversions and needed an Idaho offsides penalty to avoid a third turnover on downs and set up a game-deciding touchdown. 

    Right now, Oregon does not look the part of a conference championship contender, much less national title contender. The Ducks have serious issues, and next week Boise State very well could expose some of them. 

    Winner: Iowa offense

    The first half looked like the same old disaster of the previous years. But when the second half rolled around, Iowa football showed serious promise. In a 40-0 win over Illinois State, the Hawkeyes reached 30 points in a half for the first time since 2021. They threw for three touchdowns in a game for the first time since 2021. They posted their biggest shutout win since 2018 and posted their best yardage since 2019. 

    But perhaps most special, the youth stood out. Freshman Reece Vander Zee became the first Iowa receiver to record two touchdowns since 2022 — not in a game, but in an entire season. Freshman back Kamari Moulton was second on the team with 65 yards rushing. Combine those with tight end Luke Lachey and a rebounding Cade McNamara and the offense might have some intrigue. 

    It was against FCS Illinois State, but the Hawkeyes haven’t dominated lesser talent by any means. Granted, it was against FCS power South Dakota State, but Iowa scored just seven points against its last FCS opponent. The score combined with the youth leaves serious reasons for optimism. 

    Loser: ACC

    Last week, ACC favorite Florida State lost earlier in the calendar year than any ranked team since 1997. This week, the damage only got worse. NC State needed a late push just to survive FCS Western Carolina. Virginia Tech lost a thriller with Vanderbilt. Stanford blew a halftime lead against TCU. Clemson got flattened by Georgia and looks nowhere close to competing for anything of substance. 

    Across the conference, the only teams to overperform their station so far are Miami and Georgia Tech. While the expanded College Football Playoff means a conference team is guaranteed a slot in the party, at-large cases can be won or lost in September. 

    With such a poor showing against the other conferences, the ACC’s at-large hopes are already on life support. With NC State vs. Tennessee, California at Auburn and BYU at SMU on the schedule next week, the conference desperately needs some good news. 

    Winner: Penn State WRs

    The Nittany Lions were surprisingly quiet in the transfer portal at wide receiver and even lost top target KeAndre Lambert-Smith to Auburn. It very quickly became clear why Penn State was so content to lean on returning talent. 

    Harrison Wallace III is the breakout star of Penn State’s receiver unit after catching five passes for 117 yards and two touchdowns in a 34-12 win over West Virginia. Fellow fourth-year Tyler Warren caught another Drew Allar touchdown pass while third-year Omari Evans added another 55 yards. 

    The new offensive scheme certainly helped create opportunities for Penn State’s skill talent, but the receiving room looks ready for its close up. If the Nittany Lions have playmakers to surround Allar, suddenly, the upside for this team is much higher. 

    Loser: Florida

    Florida hired Billy Napier the same year that Miami hired Mario Cristobal. Both programs have recruited hard and hoped that Year 3 could be a breakout moment. Ultimately, that’s what makes the complete home embarrassment at the hands of the ‘Canes so demoralizing. Florida lost 41-17 and proved it didn’t belong on the same field as an ACC opponent. 

    There is nearly nothing that Florida for hang its hat on. Miami posted 529 yards. They averaged 7.7 yards per play and had three receivers with at least 70 yards. Gators running back Montrell Johnson broke off a 71-yard touchdown run. Outside of that play, Florida averaged a pathetic 3.6 yards per play. 

    Making matters worse, Miami was the seventh-higest ranked team on Florida’s schedule this season. It’s almost impossible to see how Florida can right the ship. It’s a curse that the Gators have 11 games left to play. 

    Winner: Tennessee QB Nico Iamaleava

    It was against Chattanooga, so there’s no need to overreact. That said, throwing for 314 yards and three touchdowns in your first home start – all in the first half – is nothing to scoff at. The Volunteers obliterated their FCS foe to the tune of 718 yards and Nico was at the center of it. He averaged 11.2 yards per pass attempt and found receivers downfield for some unbelievable connections. Watching Iamaleava and this offense cook will be thrilling. 

    Loser: Houston

    The Cougars knew they were entering a rebuilding cycle after hiring Willie Fritz, but the floor is even lower than expected. Houston lost against UNLV 27-7 in a total beatdown. Quarterback Donovan Smith, who hoped to get on NFL Draft radars, threw two interceptions and the Coogs averaged a cool 1.5 yards per carry. Houston is the worst team in the Big 12 by a significant margin, and will make a case as the worst in the power conferences before the season ends. A 1-11 finish is possible. 

    Winner: Notre Dame

    Perhaps the biggest reason that Notre Dame is a winner is because its College Football Playoff case suddenly got much wider. The Fighting Irish only had three teams in the preseason AP Top 25 on the schedule, and one was No. 10 Florida State. After picking up a win over the Aggies, Notre Dame’s runway to reach 10 wins and a trip to the CFP is wide open. Just as important, quarterback Riley Leonard showed a dual-threat ability that should give them a playmaking dynamic they lacked one year ago. 



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