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The pain of lost luggage can put a damper on an entire vacation. There’s nothing worse than waiting at the baggage carousel, only to walk away empty-handed. As a frequent traveler, I have dealt with my fair share of luggage woes — no matter how expertly I packed beforehand. On a 48-hour trip to Copenhagen without my checked suitcase, for example, I spent the first day searching for clothes that fit. READ MORE...

Newcastle open talks with Bayern over permanent signing of PalhinhaAfter Bayern Munich's talks with Aston Villa over Joao Palhinha broke down, Newcastle United have seemingly moved to the front of the queue for the Bayern midfielder.According to Sky Sports, Newcastle are in talks with Bayern over a permanent deal for the 31-year-old Portuguese international.The report suggests that the Magpies have turned their attention to Palhinha after their move for Pierre-Emile Højbjerg collapsed and they are now hoping to get a deal over the line before the transfer window closes.Palhinha has also attracted interest from Benfica and Sporting CP in his native Portugal, but the former Fulham man reportedly prefers a return to the Premier League, where he spent last season on loan at Tottenham.The 31-year-old was left out of Bayern's squad for Saturday's 3-1 Telekom Cup win over RB Leipzig.

With Justin Herbert on the sidelines for the Chargers' first game of the preseason, it was the Trey Lance and DJ Uiagalelei show. Lance started things off for the Chargers in their preseason opener against the Texans. The former No. 3 overall pick played for the first three quarters, leading the offense through six drives before checking out. Uiagalelei then took over the reins, playing exclusively in the fourth quarter. He completed six of nine passes for 120 yards, including a three-yard touchdown pass for Devonte Ross with 10 minutes left in the contest. Head coach Jim Harbaugh loved what he saw from both his signal callers. "Trey Lance, thought he played really well, thought DJ played really well," Harbaugh said. "Both of those guys operating drives, a lot of first downs… it was good to look at moving the football."While Lance and Uiagalelei led the offenses to scoring drives, this first battle may have gone to Uiagalelei. It's fair to say that Uiagalelei outplayed Lance, as he handled short-to-intermediate routes cleaner and used his legs to extend plays. While Lance wasn't terrible, he made some costly mistakes, including an interception right before halftime. On top of that, he barely survived other near-interceptions dropped by Texans defenders.Overall, Uiagalelei looked smoother under center and running the offense as a whole. It'll be interesting to see how Harbaugh decides to split the time moving forward. "Can you move the football team, can you the team in 11-on-11 and pick up first downs, end the drives with field goals or touchdowns? More times than not, those points were [there]," Harbaugh said. "Things to get better on, yeah."You got to give the quarterback a lot of credit for that," Harbaugh added. "It's really encouraging the way both quarterbacks acquitted themselves in this game."Lance is currently the QB2 in the Chargers' unofficial depth chart. If Uiagalelei can continue to shine and outperform his counterpart, Harbaugh may elevate the former undrafted quarterback to second string. This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: Where the Chargers' QB2 battle stands after preseason opener

Benjamin Nygren: Man of the MatchBenjamin Nygren deservedly earned the Man of the Match award in the 4-0 win over Dundee United on Tayside and was involved in a few of the goals as well.And no more so than in the 63rd minute when he rounded off the scoring with a strike of his own that was also the goal of the game.The midfielder said after the victory: “It was a great win today. I think we kept going from last week's result with scoring a lot of goals.‘The energy was top today. I'm very happy.’“It was a very good performance, the whole team was good today.“And I think we find each other really, really well up front. So, yeah, I'm pleased with it.”It was a classic team performance with cohesion and interconnection throughout the 90 minutes and the Swede put the display on the players’ constant dialogue on the training pitch, and in games.He said: “We talk a lot and try to get our chemistry as good as possible.“We talk with each other about what we think in certain situations and what to do to find each other, and what we like and so on.“It's been feeling very good. And me and Seb have spoken a lot.“So now finally I find him for his goal, and he finds me for my goal. So that was very nice.”For the full interview, watch the video below.More on the game:Celts to the fore at Tannadice: Match reportManager hails Celts’ League Cup victory: Read moreFixturesDundee United Vs. Celtic - Sat, Aug 15th 2026, 17:45 Final score: 0 - 4

O'Connor set an Irish record with 6,751 points [Getty Images]Kate O'Connor said her late grandmother "would have been jumping for joy" after the Ireland athlete claimed gold in the heptathlon at the European Championships in Birmingham.The Newry-born 25-year-old entered the final event with a 51-point lead on nearest challenger, Emma Oosterwegel of the Netherlands.O'Connor needed to get to within 3.4 seconds of Oosterwegel in the 800m to seal overall victory and did just that with the Dutch woman winning the race in 2:10.87, but O'Connor - in third behind Sveva Gerevini of Italy - was within a second in 2:11.74.It meant that O'Connor came top with 6751 points - a national record - with Oosterwegel taking silver on 6713 and Netherlands' Sofie Dokter claiming bronze on 6664.This success builds on the gold O'Connor won at the Commonwealth Games for Northern Ireland in July and silver at last year's World Championships."A couple of years ago, I probably wouldn't have thought this would happen to me," O'Connor told RTE Sport."It's been a long two years. I know there's been medals [won], but there is an increase in pressure with every competition, so each has been different to try and navigate that and this competition has been no different. It's been difficult from start to finish and I didn't have it easy for a second. "This year has been really tough from outside - my granny dies earlier this year and I don't think I give my dad enough credit, but it hit home for him and the way he turned up to training day-in and day-out..."This is my dream, but it's his dream too and I have to dedicate this medal to my granny because she was both of our biggest fans and would have been jumping for joy if she was here."'That was the most nerve-racking 800m of my life'O'Connor remained close to nearest challenger Oosterwegel in the 800m [Getty Images]O'Connor entered day two in third place after four events, 42 points behind overnight leader Adrianna Sulek-Schubert, after PBs in the 100m hurdles [13:30] and 200m [23.79] on Friday which also saw her equal her best of 1.86m in the high jump and throw 13.96m with the shot put.Her personal best form continued in the long jump on Saturday morning with a leap of 6.55m and a throw of 50.16m in the javelin took her overall total to 5,812 points, 51 ahead of Oosterwegel who had moved into second with Dokter third as Poland's Sulek-Schubert dropped to seventh after a disappointing start to the day.It all came down to the 800m on Saturday evening and O'Connor raced into an early lead before Oosterwegel took the initiative, but the Dundalk St Gerard's AC athlete remained on her shoulder as Gerevini then mounted a charge.While Oosterwegel passed the Italian to win the race, O'Connor was within a second which was enough to claim a second gold medal in a matter of weeks."That was the most nerve-racking 800 of my life," O'Connor said."I had a job to do and I know I've had quite a few jobs to do over these last few days - some I've executed and some I haven't."I was so nervous before that run but when I hear cheers like that for me [from the Irish support] going around those two laps, there was no way I was going to let that gold medal slip through my fingers."I did want to win the race, but with 50 metres to go I knew I had enough in me to stay within the three seconds and I just wanted to leave here injury-free and with a gold medal around my neck."'It was important I finished' - Johnson-ThompsonGreat Britain's Katarina Johnson-Thompson stayed the course in the 800m metres but finished last in the first heat to finish 21st overall.The 33-year-old Olympic silver medallist came into the competition after competing just once - a shot put event in Loughborough in May - since claiming bronze at last year's World Championships in Tokyo.Johnson-Thompson entered Saturday 324 points off the pace in 16th but her challenge faded in the long jump and javelin earlier in the day, while she came in last in heat one of the 800m."It is obviously far from my best," Johnson-Thompson told BBC Sport."Not the competition I would have wanted, but in a way it is. I finished."As a heptathlete it is not easy to come into a competition not in shape. You can't get knocked out in a heat and go home. It was important to me that I finished. I wanted to do it for them [coaching team and physiotherapist] as we worked so hard to be here."I have been coming here since English schools. I have been coming here a long time and I have been an athlete for a long time. It has been great to experience the stadium."Fellow GB team-mate Jade O'Dowda finished 13th with 6191 points after a fifth-place finish in heat one of the 800m.

The Chargers have set themselves up to potentially have the league's best offense. A lot of that optimism can be attributed to the addition of offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel. The expectation is that McDaniel will unlock the Chargers' offense, with many experts and former players believing Los Angeles could have the best unit in the NFL.Former Pro Bowl wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh is among those believers. During his podcast, Speakeasy, he predicted the Chargers will have the NFL's best offense while highlighting Tre Harris as a player poised for a breakout.“I'll go with an outlier, I’ll say the Chargers with Mike McDaniel,” Houshmandzadeh said. “You think about that offensive line, you think about [Justin] Herbert. The receivers, if they give Tre Harris opportunities, Tre Harris gonna burst on the scene this year like why he didn't play much last year. That's that's what's going to happen.”McDaniel is expected to modernize and elevate the offense into an explosive, top-tier unit. The Chargers were a middle-of-the-pack offense in 2025, ranking 12th in total offense, 18th in passing offense, 12th in rushing offense and 20th in scoring offense. With a quarterback like Herbert, that should not be the case. With McDaniel at the helm, there are high expectations for how he could transform the Bolts' offense. As for the Harris part of things, he's expected to play a big role in 2026. Harris has every chance to take a major leap and be the true second or third wide receiver for Los Angeles. The 2025 season was an underwhelming one, recording only 324 receiving yards. However, Harris is expected to be heavily involved in the offense, which could lead to a breakout season. This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: Could Chargers have NFL's best offense? Former Pro Bowl WR thinks so

UFC 330 takes place Saturday, and MMA Junkie will provide live round-by-round coverage and official results from the preliminary card beginning at 5:30 p.m. ET (2:30 p.m. PT).UFC 330 (Paramount+) takes place at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia.The featured prelim features two fighters coming off losses as Joe Alvarez takes on Chidi Njokuani in a battle of welterweights.Below, check out our round-by-round updates and official results.UFC 330 preliminary card lineup, resultsPrelims, Paramount+, 7 p.m. ETJoel Alvarez vs. Chidi NjokuaniCharles Johnson vs. Eduardo Chapolin – 130-pound contract weightDonte Johnson vs. Eric McConicoTresean Gore vs. Vicente LuqueEarly prelims, Paramount+, 5:30 p.m. ETLucas Fernando vs. Rafael TobiasRamiz Brahimaj vs. Neil MagnyMyktybek Orolbai vs. Jeremiah WellsThis article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: UFC 330 undercard live updates: Results, round-by-round of prelims

Former Washington Huskies star running back Jonah Coleman saw his first taste of NFL action on Friday night as the Denver Broncos cruised past the Atlanta Falcons in a 27-7 preseason victory.In the win, he took four carries for 24 yards and showcased the same skill set that he did during his time playing for coach Jedd Fisch on Montlake: shiftiness, contact balance, and power, as he battles with J.K. Dobbins and R.J. Harvey for playing time in coach Sean Payton's backfield.While playing a pair of drives for Denver, the fourth-round pick in April's draft didn't take long to get into the swing of things at the next level.“I’m not the best in the world yet…I haven’t done anything yet.”Postgame with #Broncos rookie RB Jonah Coleman after his first preseason game 🏈 pic.twitter.com/o2NhyWjJNY— Scotty Gange (@Scotty_G6) August 15, 2026"It felt great, especially to be out there and go out there with my teammates," Coleman told Scotty Gange of 9News Denver of his debut. "It's a hard camp, it's a long camp, but to be able to go out there and ultimately get the win, that's what it's all about: going out there and having fun with my teammates."However, even after a strong debut, the former three-star recruit, who compiled 1,811 yards and 25 touchdowns on the ground, to go along with 54 catches for 531 yards and a pair of scores in his two years with the Huskies, doesn't feel like he's proven anything just yet."I ain't do nothing yet," Coleman continued. "I got a couple carries, got my feet wet, but I still ain't do nothing, so...it felt good today to be able to play football again, now that football is back, but I'm still hungry. I've still got goals to achieve; I still ain't made my mark yet."This article originally appeared on Huskies Wire: Former Washington star makes strong impression in NFL preseason debut

Photo by James Gilbert/Getty ImagesScottie Scheffler has still been the dominant force on the PGA Tour this season despite the fact that he has only won once in 2026.Scheffler is sitting comfortably at the top of the FedEx Cup points list, and he leads the vast majority of the key statistical categories.The 30-year-old world number one has 11 top-5 finishes to his name in just 17 starts this season, including five runner-ups!The margins are so fine on the PGA Tour, and it’s fair to argue that Scottie Scheffler could have easily won four or five times already this season.Photo by Ben Jared/PGA TOUR via Getty ImagesThe man from Dallas, Texas, is in a strong position to record his second win of the season this week at the FedEx St. Jude Championship.Scheffler’s 61 on Friday was the joint-third lowest score of his career, and it seems like he could be very close to returning to his absolute best.Tom Kim raved about what Scottie Scheffler is doing right nowTom Kim is one of Scheffler’s closest friends away from tournament play.Kim is a huge admirer of Scheffler, and after his round at TPC Southwind on Saturday, he was asked what it feels like to chase down a player like the 30-year-old.“Yeah, he’s only had one win this year, so he’s kind of off. No, it’s kudos to him,“ he replied.“He keeps — I think he’s probably the best No. 1 in the world that we’ve had in a while. No one’s been this dominant for this long. He works so hard, so he deserves everything.Photo by Keyur Khamar/PGA TOUR via Getty Images“I’m just glad I posted a nice round on Saturday. Obviously he’s so good, so we’re not really focused on him. I’m just kind of focused on my game.“Scheffler’s 2026 season has actually been an incredibly good one.He will undoubtedly be disappointed with his performances, but that’s only because the standards he has set are so high.Tom Kim says whether Scottie Scheffler should win Player of the YearThe 24-year-old South Korean responded when asked whether he believes Scheffler should be awarded the Player of the Year trophy this season.“I don’t know, I haven’t really paid attention on who’s the best Player of the Year,“ Kim admitted.“I know some guys have had three wins, but this guy with one win he’s leading the FedExCup by like 1,000 or close to that. So it’s pretty dominant.“You look at someone else, this is probably one of the best years that someone would have, and it’s just somewhat below average. So you can never take him out of the Player of the Year argument.“If Scheffler wins one or two playoff events, he will almost certainly be named as the PGA Tour’s best player for the 2026 season.However, if someone like Cam Young or Wyndham Clark performs better than him during the playoffs, Scheffler may miss out on winning the award for the first time in five years.

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – After taking Friday off, the New England Patriots returned to the practice field on Saturday, following Thursday's 13-13 tie with the Indianapolis Colts in the preseason opener. The team is looking to take whatever lessons they can from the game and use them in their preparation for Week 2. And with that, they turned the page to the scheduled preseason game and two scheduled joint practices with the Philadelphia Eagles next week. Here were the biggest takeaways from Day 15 of training camp practice: 1. Romeo Doubs continues to impressRomeo Doubs has been coming alive during these past few practices and had some highlight-reel plays on Saturday, hauling in multiple touchdowns, including contested catches over the defense. Specifically, he had an impressive grab over Charles Woods during Drake Maye's one-minute drive for the touchdown, after Kayshon Boutte's massive gain moved the chains and put them in the red zone.”Just new offense, new year, figuring out the player, getting to know him," Vrabel said before practice. "Really, a lot of positive things, I think, trending in the right direction.“2. Dre'Mont Jones leaves earlyEdge rusher Dre'Mont Jones left practice early, being spotted walking off with a member of the training staff. With him out, it was rookie Gabe Jacas who slotted in, playing opposite Elijah Ponder. He shined, having several run stuffs during the team periods. 3. Carlton Davis struggled against receiversWith Christian Gonzalez sidelined, it was Carlton Davis and Charles Woods who served as the starting cornerbacks, but they struggled to stop the receiver group. Davis gave up a few touchdowns in 7-on-7 and 11-on-11 red zone reps, followed by being beaten by Kayshon Boutte during the one-minute drill to end practice, which ultimately set up a touchdown on the next play.As for Woods, while he was back out there, he was in a red non-contact jersey. He also got beat a few times, often by Romeo Doubs. 4. Andy Borregales bounces backAfter his struggles during the team's first preseason game, where he missed three field goals, Andy Borregales came into practice ready to prove himself, and he did just that. The kicker was reunited with longsnapper Julian Ashby, who missed the first preseason game due to injury, and ended practice by making all six of his attempts, working on the skinny field goal posts. 5. QB statsDrake Maye: 1-for-5 in 7s, 10-for-16 in 11sTommy DeVito: 4-for-4 in 7s, 6-for-13 in 11sBehren Morton: 2-for-3 in 11s6. AttendanceAbsent: CB Christian Gonzalez, WR Kobe Prentice, DB Eric Butler, LB Chad Muma, LS Niko Lalos, OLB Xavier Holmes, OL Andrew Rupcich, OL Ben Brown, WR Kyle Dixon, DL Christian BarmoreInjured: OLB Dre’Mont JonesReturning: LS Julian Ashby, CB Charles Woods (red non-contact jersey)Limited: LB Christian EllissPUP/NFI: ED Harold Landry III, S Brenden SchoolerHead coach Mike Vrabel reiterated that Christian Gonzalez's absence is due to a slight injury he sustained rather than it being contract-related. As for Ben Brown and Andrew Rupcich, they were both missing after suffering injuries in Thursday's preseason game, with Brown expected to be sidelined for the remainder of the preseason. With that, the Patriots signed two new offensive linemen: Darrian Dalcourt (No. 61) and Joe Michalski (No. 60).7. Other notesMarcus Bryant, Mehki Butler, Jacob Rizy, James Hudson, and Caleb Lomu all repped in the second offensive line unit with Brown and Rupcich out. It was Rizy who took over at center. Patriots were down two of their top linebackers with Christian Ellisslimited and Chad Mumaout, so it was KJ Brittwho slotted in with the starters. Kindle Vildor and Karon Prunty both recorded pass breakups during the team periods. What's next?The Patriots will hold a closed walkthrough practice on Sunday, Aug. 16, with just the media in attendance. They will be back out on Monday and Tuesday to prepare for joint practices with the Eagles on Wednesday and Thursday. Follow Patriots Wire on Twitter and Facebook.This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: 7 takeaways from Day 15 of Patriots training camp

Arne Engels is the second high-profile departure from Celtic this summer following Daizen Maeda's move to promoted Ipswich [Getty Images]West Ham United have broken the EFL transfer record by paying a £22m fee to sign Arne Engels from Scottish champions Celtic.The 22-year-old Belgium international has signed a five-year contract after West Ham paid what they called a "record fee paid by an EFL Championship club".It tops the £17.5m paid by Ipswich Town a year ago to sign Norway forward Sindre Walle Egeli.Following relegation in May, West Ham start their first Championship season since 2012 with a trip to Burnley on Sunday.But Engels, who can play in midfield, right-back or right-wing, will not be available to make his debut until the home league derby against Charlton Athletic at the London Stadium on Saturday, 22 August.Relive the Championship action on a busy opening SaturdayEngels is West Ham's fourth summer signing after the recruitment of Venezuela midfielder Keiber Lamadrid, Dutch defender Joel Veltman and Israel winger Manor Solomon.West Ham director of player recruitment Nils Koppen told the club website: "Arne is a player we have been tracking for some time as a key target."For a player who is still very young with his best years in front of him, he has very good experience and has established himself at a big club, showing consistency and confidence."Arne has the right traits, both as a player and as a character, to fit into what we are trying to build moving forward. He is very motivated to be here for this challenge."Engels, who has made four appearances for Belgium, won back-to-back Scottish Premiership titles with Celtic after arriving from Augsburg in August 2024, having begun his career at Club Brugge."It's a really nice project to come into," he said. "To try to go back to the Premier League. That's the big goal. "It's just up to me to hopefully help the team with it and together with the supporters to get some wins. Hopefully it's going to be a good year."West Ham's boardroom battle on eve of Championship seasonWill West Ham bounce straight back up?Quiz: How much do you remember about West Ham's 2011-12 season?

Now that Deshaun Watson has played in an NFL football game for the first time in nearly two years, the Cleveland Browns shouldn’t need nearly as much time to shed clarity on their muddled (for now) quarterback situation.Watson – dogged by controversy, injuries and an albatross of a contract since the Browns’ disastrous trade for him four years ago – had a passable day at Chicago’s Soldier Field against the Bears on Saturday, Aug. 15 … if you’re judging by the box score (11 of his 15 throws completed for 126 yards). Tight end Harold Fannin Jr. didn’t help him, either, his third-down drop of a perfectly placed Watson throw forcing the Browns to settle for a field goal on their second drive of a game they'd eventually lose 34-10.But otherwise?Watson’s largely uninspiring performance could be sufficient on its own to confer the QB1 job to NFL sophomore Shedeur Sanders … and maybe it even serves as the one-way trip out of Cleveland many Browns fans would love for Watson to take. Starting the game with the support of several established first-stringers, Watson wound up overseeing six drives – which produced the aforementioned field goal, a touchdown run by rookie KC Concepcion, three punts and a turnover … by Watson.A Pro Bowler in three of his four seasons with the Houston Texans to start his career, Watson appeared as removed as ever from the player he once was. Failing to feel the pass rush, he suffered a strip sack in the second quarter. The mobility he used to feature to such great effect seemed diminished by the multiple Achilles surgeries he’s had since the tendon first ruptured to end his 2024 campaign. And though his passing stat line looked, well, passable, Watson didn’t push the ball downfield − none of his completions covering 10 air yards, receivers doing the bulk of the work with yards gained after the catch after gathering in his dump-offs.“It was the Deshaun Watson experience – we’ve seen some good, we’ve seen some bad. … (A)s the game went on, we started to see him get a little shaky in the pocket, got a little nervous in the pocket,” said NFL Network analyst and former All-Pro defensive lineman Gerald McCoy, who also suggested that Watson looked apprehensive physically.“I don’t know if it was what (Browns coach) Todd Monken was looking for.”NATE DAVIS: What are the Cleveland Browns doing? Seriously, we have no ideaShedeur Sanders preseason performanceSanders, while playing with backups in the second half, didn’t exactly distinguish himself, either. Still, Watson’s lackluster showing should give Sanders, who will start Cleveland’s next preseason game against the Buffalo Bills, all the leeway he needs to win the starting position for a young team clearly in the midst of a rebuild following the hiring of Monken and subsequent stunning trade of 2025 Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams two months ago.“Deshaun Watson – he’s had every opportunity to be the starter, the long-term solution. Shedeur Sanders, this is his second year,” McCoy said. “If you look at what they did, they gave up a generational talent in Myles Garrett because they want to go younger. Shedeur Sanders is young. (If Sanders play well), then this is who I believe they should go with, because Deshaun Watson has had ample opportunity. He can’t help that he’s been injured, but the Deshaun Watson that they expected to get – which is how he played in Houston – they have not (gotten) that.“If it’s close, if Shedeur Sanders is (close), I say you go with Shedeur.”I’d take it a step further and suggest it might be time to part ways with Watson. The battered soon-to-be 31-year-old is not going to get any more meaningful snaps this preseason, barring an injury to Sanders. He’s not going to be on this roster next year, even though Watson and Browns owner Jimmy Haslam briefly entertained the possibility earlier this summer that a guy who’s still radioactive to a significant degree following the accusations he faced from dozens of massage therapists might actually re-sign in 2027. (What else is either going to say to such inane questions?)The situation feels similar to the one faced by the post-Brady 2021 New England Patriots, who cut former league MVP Cam Newton prior to that season after rookie first-rounder Mac Jones was selected as the starter. The 2026 Browns aren’t going to win the Super Bowl, either, but it’s hard to fathom a reason they shouldn't take an extended look at Sanders – to determine whether he is the long-term answer in Cleveland or if a team armed with two first-round picks next year (thanks to the Garrett trade) needs to focus that draft capital on its latest attempt to obtain a franchise passer. Keeping Watson doesn’t further the cause from that perspective, and why even retain his services as a potential midseason alternative when second-year man Dillon Gabriel is also on the roster? The only reason – and probably the overriding one − to keep Watson around in 2026 is the accounting flexibility to write off the approximately $86 million in dead money the team will likely split between its 2027 and ’28 salary caps … likely the final insult to bear of the fully guaranteed, five-year, $230 million extension Haslam was crucified for giving Watson.“I just think as a front office, you have a responsibility to look toward the future – win now – but you also have to look toward the future,” NFL Network analyst and Super Bowl-winning fullback Michael Robinson said.“We haven’t seen that MVP mold from Deshaun Watson in, what, three or four years? So if they’re looking toward the future, I think Shedeur should get the roadway to get an opportunity to be the starting quarterback for the Cleveland Browns.”And given the way Watson drove in Chicago? All the more reason to give Sanders the wheel for good in 2026.All the NFL news on and off the field. Sign up for USA TODAY's 4th and Monday newsletter.This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Browns should just give Shedeur Sanders the QB1 job – now | Opinion

Vikings backup quarterback Carson Wentz played more than he had expected to play in Saturday's preseason opener. He played two series of the second half before turning over the reins to Max Brosmer.Brosmer, though, lasted only three plays late in the third quarter.The fourth-string quarterback went 1-for-2 for 6 yards before leaving with a right thumb injury.Wentz returned and played the fourth quarter in the Vikings' 13-10 win."We wanted to be smart with that [injury to Brosmer]," coach Kevin O'Connell said after the game, via video from the team. "We'll obviously image that. Don't have anything on that yet, but as much as he wanted to go back in the game, we just wanted to be sure that he didn't have anything in there, and Carson was able to come back in there."

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - JUNE 11: Indianapolis Colts edge Caden Curry (55) runs through a drill during the Indianapolis Colts Minicamp on June 11, 2026 at the Indiana Farm Bureau Football Center in Indianapolis, IN. (Photo by Zach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images Center Grove High School alum Caden Curry made an enormous impact in his first appearance donning his hometown Indianapolis Colts’ horseshoe on an NFL field last Thursday. Appearing in the 2nd half of the opening preseason game against the New England Patriots, perhaps it was a childhood hatred of the rival Patriots from the Tom Brady era that fueled his performance? Or could it be the pride in getting to suit up for his childhood team?Whether it was love or hate that provided the spark for his 6 Tackles (3 solo), 2 Tackles For Loss, 3 QB Hits, 1 Sack, 2 Pass Deflection night; Colts fans certainly can’t complain about his debut game.Colts EDGE Caden Curry in his Preseason Debut:🔵 1.0 Sacks🔵 4 QB Pressures🔵 92.1 Pass Rush Grade🔵 23.5% Win Rate@OhioStateFBpic.twitter.com/BmdqJBTWEB— PFF College (@PFF_College) August 14, 2026Caden was able to stuff his stat sheet like a famous Hoosier pork tenderloin sandwich, spread out wider than you’d expect. He played along the line, inside as a 3 Technique (think DeForest Buckner’s spot) and outside as a Defensive End. He won as a pass rusher consistently, he won as a run stopper, and he even helped out in coverage by swatting 2 throws at the line of scrimmage.About as strong of a first look as you can find for a player. It certainly left an impression on Colts fans and media..@Colts@CadenCurry14 who cares that he was the 214th pick out of @OhioStateFB … He showed up and showed out last night playing inside and outside. #BaldysBreakdownspic.twitter.com/Gv4saR7NCi— Brian Baldinger (@BaldyNFL) August 14, 2026This is extremely reactionary, but I’ve been thinking about it… Caden Curry is going to be a nightmare for opposing offenses.Ballard’s track record drafting edge rushers outside of Latu has been rough. He’s due to hit on an absolute stud. pic.twitter.com/g5klfu6wzK— SleeperColts (@SleeperColts) August 15, 2026Caden Curry. Ballplayer. pic.twitter.com/sMR3NpinfB— Nate Tice (@Nate_Tice) August 14, 2026I wasn't the biggest fan of Caden Curry as a true edge rusher prospect, but I was intrigued by some of his reps at 3-tech at Ohio State. Glad the Colts gave him some interior run on Thursday. 1 sack, 1 QB hit, and 2 PBU's rushing inside pic.twitter.com/TcHTFAaINn— Zach Hicks (@ZachHicks2) August 15, 2026As touted as his performance was, is the hype train worthy of getting on to at this point? Myself and many others want to believe Curry is legit and will be a strong producer for the Colts. But there are some factors to consider before fully buying in this soon.Strength of opposing assignmentsCurry was being blocked by an Offensive Line consisting of James Hudson III, Mekhi Butler, JonDarius Morgan, Jacob Rizy, Dametrious Crownover by the time he entered the game. It isn’t crazy to say Curry faced better Offensive Linemen on a fair amount of assignments in the BIG10, as none of those players on the Patriots line were able to secure solid draft investment and the BIG10 is filled with powerhouse Offensive Line schools that regularly produce early round talent. With the scarcity of quality linemen in the NFL, the talent tiers between the best and worst linemen (and other tiers in the middle) can be stark.This dominance parallels the rise of another 1st year Edge Rusher from Colts history who dominated the preseason: Caesar Rayford in 2013.Is Caden Curry legit? Or is he Caesar Rayford 2.0 destroying backup OL?In 2013 Rayford, a free agent Edge from Arena Football recorded in the preseason:– 5 Sacks– 2 Forced Fumbles– 11 Tackles (7 Solo)He was traded to DAL for a conditional pick & recorded minimal stats https://t.co/aOOT90spsxpic.twitter.com/WEBWadV4DM— Jay Robins (@TheJayRobins) August 14, 2026Rayford dominated the preseason, showcasing his 6’7 size and length along with nice burst to dominate the backup and practice squad offensive linemen of the NFL. The former Utah Blaze star for the Arena Football League generated a ton of hype from Colts media in this time. But then Colts General Manager Ryan Grigson traded him to the Cowboys around the time of roster cutdowns for a conditional pick. He racked up 5 tackles in 2013 but got injured and bounced around a few practice squads before leaving the NFL entirely in August 2015.On WTHR: Colts rookie Caesar Rayford ruling preseason http://t.co/fYjGW53pbZ— WTHR.com (@WTHRcom) August 20, 2013Rayford should serve as a cautionary tale for fans to get too many expectations of late game heroics in preseason games. We already know Caden Curry can dominate against Linemen of a similar (if not better) talent and skill level than the Patriots 3rd string front based on Curry’s 2025 tape, which made him the highest graded DE in the Big10 last year.What we still don’t know, is how Curry would do consistently against the starting caliber linemen he will be asked to face in the NFL on a regular basis if he moves up the depth chart. Hopefully getting to play earlier in preseason games going forward will help answer that question.Low on the Colts Depth ChartWith Caden Curry entering the game in the 2nd half and playing until the final snap of the game, it signaled that he still has a ways to go to rise up the Colts Defensive Line totem pole. Laiatu Latu, DeForest Buckner, and Grover Stewart are entrenched as 2026 starters. Arden Key, Jaylahn Tuimoloau, and Michael Clemons were in early on in the game, showing they will most likely make up the core group of Colts DE rotation at this point. Fellow rookie George Gumbs Jr also got snaps early on too, potentially indicating he could make the starting roster too.The #Colts have released their first depth chart of 2026.My thoughts on it:https://t.co/JLOmz9wpsS— Kevin Bowen (@KBowen1070) August 10, 2026Curry did rotate to play 13 snaps inside at Defensive Tackle against the Patriots, but the DT room looks even more deep and tougher competition than the Edge spot. Behind the pair of 30+ year old starters, Adetomiwa Adebawore has shown growth as a situational pass rusher and gap shooter to warrant a strong rotational role. Colby Wooden arriving via the Zaire Franklin trade from Green Bay was miscast as a block eating Nose Tackle but proved to be a strong run defender in his time with the Packers. He is set to have a good role as well. The Colts still have Tim Smith and added former 1st Round pick Jerry Tillery, and longtime Chiefs starting Nose Tackle Derrick Nnadi to the room.Again, playing earlier in a preseason game could show that Curry has the potential to crack a rotational role in 2026, but after a quiet camp it is clear he was entering the game behind quite a few linemen and stayed in to play alongside players typically that are at the end of the roster or enter the Practice Squads on teams.Proportional ProblemsCaden Curry is a historic outlier among Defensive Ends with his short arms being in the 0 percentile historically at the position in the NFL level. For context, one of the top DE prospects this past year: Reuben Bain Jr, fell down draft boards almost exclusively due to his 30.875” arms that are 1st percentile historically. Caden Curry’s arms measure at 30.125”.Colts Draft Arm Length Positional %ilezDE Caden Curry: 30.125” arms = 0 %ileLB Bryce Boettcher: 30.75” arms = 9th %ileS AJ Haulcy: 30.875” arms = 26th %ileLB CJ Allen: 31.5” arms = 27th %ileDE George Gumbs Jr: 33.625” arms = 56th %ileG Jalen Farmer: 34.25” arms = 86th %ile— Jay Robins (@TheJayRobins) April 25, 2026He’s been able to overcome this lack of length with strong effort, powerful hands, relentless pursuit, and polished technique in his collegiate career and this past Thursday. Some of his best plays were from attacking the interior of the Pats line.But are those other traits and skills able to continue to succeed against the longest, most polished, and most physically dominant linemen that populate the starting lines of the NFL?the hometown kid. 💥 pic.twitter.com/3v7RIhQiUG— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) August 14, 2026Some speculated before the draft that Curry’s best position could be inside as a Defensive Tackle in the NFL, where linemen tend to have shorter arms than their Tackle counterparts on the outside. But then another issue arises where Caden Curry’s proportions are a historic outlier: Curry’s weight. The lightest Defensive Tackle in the Mockdraftable.com database is Kerry Wynn, a 266 lbs. prospect from the 2014 draft weighing 266 lbs. Caden Curry’s weight is 257-260 lbs. But at least with this measurement Curry can change the number. One can’t stretch their arms longer like Mr. Fantastic, but Curry could put on weight if he desires to make a position switch. It would just need to be 20-25 lbs. to fit the typical minimum for an interior Defensive Line player in the current NFL.Why is Jay Robins being a wet blanket about Caden?Simple. It’s still too soon to make bold proclamations about any player who performs well in the preseason, especially late in games.Colts sixth-round pick Caden Curry, a local product out of Center Grove HS, wore his vintage Peyton Manning jersey during his interview with local media. Grew up a huge Colts fan and regularly attended games at Lucas Oil Stadium. pic.twitter.com/5bLoGB7laY— Stephen Holder (@HolderStephen) April 25, 2026I want Caden Curry to work out and become a staple of the Colts defensive front. For Colts fans, he is one of us, and is getting a shot to live the dream of every football fan from Indy to play for his favorite team. Who wouldn’t want to root for him?But until he begins to rise up the depth chart, beat legitimate starting level NFL linemen, and answer his questions of his physical proportions against said competition, some healthy skepticism is warranted. It’s just simply too early to hop on the train, but when it’s time to board I will sprint through the sliding doors before the conductor even gets a chance to announce “All Aboard!”.Good news is Curry did exactly what a Defensive Lineman who is worth a healthy amount of snaps in the NFL should do against poor competition, absolutely dominate. Test Number 1 is emphatically passed. I would hope the Colts coaching staff seeing how well Curry did will give him a better shot against better competition in the remaining 2 preseason games.If so, the next test begins.

Jared Larson NEWTON — The Big 12 wasn’t content with just raiding the Pac-12 in 2023. Now, they’re coming for the race tracks.On Aug. 9, while engines at the Iowa Speedway were screaming around the 7/8 mile oval, the Big 12 logo was screaming right back from the hood of Riley Herbst’s No. 35 Toyota Camry.Herbst navigated the field from 28th to a 21st-place finish.Big 12 Conference commissioner Brett Yormark emphasized that the collaboration with Monster Energy is designed to establish the conference’s presence in sports like NASCAR even before the college football season kicks off in September.“This is a partnership all about Monster taking the Big 12 to places we don’t exist,” Yormark said. “Even before the football season starts, we’re activating the Big 12 Conference and doing so here in a great sport, NASCAR.”Yormark, who served as NASCAR’s vice president of corporate marketing from 1998 to 2004, returned to the track for the first time in over two decades to oversee the activation. “It’s been 21 years since I’ve been at a NASCAR race,” Yormark said. “Being back here today on a personal level, but also to speak to the Monster partnership – which has ultimately brought us back here today – is a wonderful thing.”If you’re going to slap a conference logo on a car, you do it in Iowa State’s backyard. The track is about an hour from Ames, and Yormark noted that the fans definitely noticed the branding.“I’ve had a lot of the fans come up to me, say hello, excited to see the Big 12 here,” Yormark said. “A lot of Iowa State fans here today. It’s just reaffirming and reinforcing this is Big 12 country.”Driver Riley Herbst, who has been racing at this track since his national series debut in 2018, was happy to play host.“We’re in Big 12 country, Iowa State country,” Herbst said. “Happy to have them on the hood. Excited to meet [Yormark] and walk him around the race track.”Herbst even shared his secret to staying race-ready while representing the high-energy brand, jokingly noting his preference for Zero Sugar Monster to maintain his “summer body.”

Former Pakistan captain Azhar Ali has linked the country’s recent struggles in Test cricket to the decline of departmental cricket, which he believes played a major role in developing players.Azhar, who represented Pakistan in nine Tests and 31 ODIs, described departmental teams as a key “nursery” for the national side and warned that the system is once again being weakened.“Department cricket is a big need for Pakistan,” Azhar told Cricinfo.He said shutting down the system had hurt the development of Pakistani cricket and that its return has not been given enough importance.Azhar criticises constant changesThe Pakistan Cricket Board recently removed WAPDA and Sahir Associates from the 2026-27 domestic season after the teams did not meet new regulations. WAPDA had been one of Pakistan’s longest-running domestic teams.Azhar also criticised the PCB for frequently changing its domestic structure instead of allowing a system time to work.“The first thing I'd do is to give any system we implement a few years. If you change every year, then you were either wrong last year, or you're wrong now,” he said.Azhar himself developed through departmental cricket and believes it provided young players with something crucial: financial security.“I was moulded in department cricket, as so many others have been,” Azhar said.He explained that departmental teams offered salaries even when regional teams overlooked players, allowing cricketers to continue pursuing the sport.Financial security key for young playersAzhar said Pakistan has no shortage of youngsters who want to play cricket, but many families cannot afford to let them pursue it without financial support.“Desire to play is not a problem [in Pakistan],” he said.He added that cricket must be financially viable for young players, especially those who need to support their families.“It's easy to say, reduce the teams in domestic cricket. But if you're not getting financially rewarded for it, how many kids will be able to afford to take up cricket?” Azhar said.He warned that without such support, talented youngsters could abandon cricket or leave Pakistan in search of better opportunities.

A Florida newspaper last Wednesday criticized Gov. Ron DeSantis-appointed Attorney General James Uthmeier for telling the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops that their schools can’t receive taxpayer-funded vouchers if they require vaccinations. “Apparently, Uthmeier believes he understands Catholic values better than some priests, with Pope James saying he has concluded ‘there is no religious basis’ for church-run schools to enforce this commitment to public health. Even if it’s part of their mantra of protecting human life,” The Orlando Sentinel wrote in an editorial, sarcastically referring to Uthmeier as “Pope James.” Related A federal judge just slapped down Ron DeSantis’ anti-LGBTQ+ “Stop WOKE Act” The editorial sidesteps the bigger-picture issue of whether Florida taxpayers should fund religious schools in the first place, but points out “the blatant and ugly inconsistency” in Uthmeier’s reasoning: namely, he’s okay when some religious schools use their faith as a pretext to refuse admission to LGBTQ+ students and students with same-sex parents, but not to oppose Uthmeier’s anti-vaccine measures. “Florida’s current Republican leadership is fine with that discrimination,” the Sentinel’s editorial board wrote. “If parents encounter a school that refuses to serve gay students, their belief is: Tough luck. That’s school ‘choice’ for ya! If you don’t like a school’s admission policies, find another school. But that policy apparently doesn’t apply to vaccines. So schools are free to refuse gay students, but must accept all anti-vaxxers… even if it endangers other students.” Never Miss a Beat Subscribe to our newsletter to stay ahead of the latest LGBTQ+ political news and insights. Subscribe to our Newsletter today The editorial concludes that Uthmeier and other Republicans are only committed to respecting the school’s religious values when they mirror the politicians’ own ideology. Florida & Trump are trying to foment public distrust in vaccines DeSantis’ opposition to mandatory vaccinations developed during the COVID-19 pandemic: he first opposed “vaccine mandates,” then questioned vaccines’ safety and efficacy, and eventually opposed federal/state health guidelines. In 2022, DeSantis-appointed state Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo sowed public distrust in the monkeypox vaccine, stating that there is “little data” on it, which is misleading. But his position was hardly surprising considering that he spent years spreading COVID-19 disinformation and echoing DeSantis’ distrust in vaccines. In July 2020, near the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ladapo appeared in a 43-minute viral video as part of a group called America’s Frontline Doctors. The group, which had no epidemiologists or immunologists qualified to speak on infectious diseases, promoted the anti-malaria medication hydroxychloroquine as a “cure” for COVID-19, even though no studies substantiated that claim. The video also featured Dr. Stella Immanuel, who believes that demons insert sperm into sleeping individuals when they have sex in their dreams. The video received millions of views when President Donald Trump, his son Donald Trump Jr, and other right-wing media figures shared it on social media. Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter all removed the video for violating their policies on sharing COVID-19 misinformation. At the time, Florida ranked third among states with the highest numbers of COVID-19 infections and related deaths. DeSantis had previously signed orders expanding exemptions for people who don’t want to get vaccinated against COVID-19 and preventing schools and local governments from imposing face mask mandates in Florida. In September 2025, DeSantis announced an initiative alongside Ladapo to dismantle state vaccine requirements—including those for school enrollment (such as hepatitis B and chickenpox)—making Florida the first state to attempt a total rollback of school immunization mandates as part of DeSantis’ “medical freedom” agenda. Ladapo has called mandatory vaccines a form of bodily “slavery.” Despite the tough talk, Florida’s Republican-led legislature hasn’t passed any bills to end mandatory vaccination, and the state’s department of health hasn’t issued any paperwork to change statewide vaccination rules. As such, DeSantis is apparently using financial threats to pressure private schools to give in. It’s also worth noting that Trump just signed an executive order directing the government to research vaccine safety, and all states to provide religious and medical exemptions to vaccine requirements, WUSF reported. The order pushed an unproven claim, made repeatedly by U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, that vaccines cause autism. Dr. Rana Alissa, president of the state’s leading pediatric medical association, the Florida Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, blasted the order as “nonsense” and advised people against changing their vaccine schedules, saying, “We go by evidence-based science, we don’t go by politics and politicians.” Subscribe to the LGBTQ Nation newsletter and be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

St. Louis Cardinals' Joshua Baez (22) celebrates with teammates in the dugout after hitting a solo home run during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Chicago Cubs in Chicago, Saturday, Aug. 15, 2026. (AP Photo/Paul Beaty)2026-08-15T21:17:25Z CHICAGO (AP) — Joshua Báez became the first player to hit three home runs in his first three at-bats in the major leagues, leading the St. Louis Cardinals to an 8-4 victory over the Chicago Cubs on Saturday.The 23-year-old left fielder, called up from Triple-A Memphis earlier in the day, hit the first pitch he saw into the Wrigley Field bleachers, then homered in his next two at-bats. He also drove in five runs.Blaze Jordan and Alec Burleson added solo home runs to help the Cardinals win a day after dropping the opener of the three-game series.Báez is the first St. Louis player to homer in his first career plate appearance since Lane Thomas in June 2019.Michael Conforto hit a three-run homer for the Cubs, who had won nine of 11.Michael McGreevy (5-9) allowed three runs — all unearned — on five hits and two walks while striking out six in the first six innings to win for the first time since July 8. Báez tagged Matthew Boyd (8-2) for all three homers. He drove his first, a two-run shot, deep into the left-center field bleachers in the first inning.Conforto’s home run tied the game at 3-all in the second, but Báez led off the fourth and sent a full-count pitch down the left-field line, then went down the opposite side in the sixth for another two-run homer.Jordan’s home run was the end of day for Boyd, who allowed seven runs on five hits and three walks in 5 1/3 innings. He struck out two. Burleson homered off Colin Rea in the eighth. Up nextThe series ends Sunday afternoon when the Cardinals send Hunter Dobbins (2-3, 3.40 ERA) against fellow right-hander Edward Cabrera (5-4, 5.10). Cabrera (left hamstring strain) will be making his first start since June 23.___See AP’s full MLB coverage here

2026-08-15T21:31:24Z Berkshire Hathaway is increasing the size of its stake in Google’s parent company and beefing up its holdings in homebuilders, according to the conglomerate’s latest snapshot of its investment portfolio. The Omaha, Nebraska-based company also continued to pare its stake in financial companies and a number of other stocks in the April-June quarter, according to a regulatory filing filed late Friday.CEO Greg Abel, who took over from Warren Buffett at the start of the year, agreed in June to make a $10 billion stock investment in Alphabet, expanding on the stake that Berkshire started to build last fall. In the second quarter, Berkshire picked up roughly 48.1 million shares in Alphabet, bringing its total shares in the tech giant to roughly 106 million. That stake was valued at about $37.76 billion as of June 30, according to the filing. As recently as the end of December, Berkshire held only 17.8 million Alphabet shares worth $5.6 billion. Alphabet has said it plans to raise $80 billion to pay for the computing infrastructure needed to power its AI offerings.Beyond tech, Berkshire continued to boost its investments in the U.S. homebuilding sector. Its stake in homebuilder Lennar increased nearly 30% in the second quarter. Berkshire also established a small new stake in D.R. Horton that was worth $580,504 at the end of June.In July, Berkshire completed a $6.8 billion acquisition of homebuilder Taylor Morrison. Berkshire also sharply increased its shares in Delta Air Lines and Macy’s in the second quarter. The stakes were worth about $5.37 billion and $173 million, respectively, as of June 30. Read More Berkshire also pruned its investment portfolio in the second quarter, reducing its stake in several companies relative to where they stood in the first quarter, including supermarket operator Kroger, steel manufacturer Nucor and dialysis giant DaVita.The company also dumped all its holdings — 632,890 shares — in beverage company Constellation Brands. Berkshire also pared its shares in several financial companies. Its stakes in Bank of America and Ally Financial declined by around 6% and 6.9%, respectively, and it slashed its shares in Capital One Financial by 58%.Many investors have followed Berkshire’s portfolio closely over the years because they liked to copy Buffett’s moves. He remains the company’s chairman and largest shareholder. Sign up for Morning Wire: Our flagship newsletter breaks down the biggest headlines of the day. Email address Sign up By checking this box, you agree to AP's Terms of Use and acknowledge that AP may collect and use your data pursuant to our Privacy Policy. But Berkshire, which owns dozens of businesses including major insurers like Geico and BNSF railroad, never comments on the moves it makes to its stock portfolio from quarter to quarter because it doesn’t want to discuss what it is buying and selling.

The glowering Claressa Shields has been missing in action this week.Instead, as her next fight approached, she has beamed and preened.Shields (18-0) will have a chance to add to her vast collection of championship belts when she fights Kaye Scott (5-1-1) for the WBC and WBA middleweight titles. She’s clearly relished the physical transformation it has required.Not only has the glowering disappeared, but Shields has also lost about 15 pounds while dropping from the heavyweight ranks back down to the 160-pound middleweight division.“I know from my own experience, once you go up in weight, it's very difficult to come down,’’ said Dmitriy Salita, Shields’ promoter and a former pro boxer. “And she's half the woman that she used to be.“She’s fit. She looks great.’’The goal wasn’t just to wow ‘em at the weigh-in.This new phase is expected to include compelling bouts against Mikaela Mayer, Lauren Price and possibly Tamm Thibeault.“(Shields) really dares to be great and push the limit to what could be done to initiate some of those biggest fights,’’ Salita said. “The (slimmed down) look is a bonus.”How to watch Claressa Shields vs. Kaye ScottDate: Saturday, August 15Time: Main card: 8 p.m. ET; Main event to start approximately 11:26 p.m. ETWhere: State Farm Arena (Atlanta, Georgia)Stream: DAZNWatch Shields vs Scott with DAZNThis article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Claressa Shields vs Kaye Scott live updates: How to watch, fight time, price

SOUTH KINGSTOWN – Some practiced but still might not play. Others didn't suit up but could still find themselves on the field when the 2026 season kicks off for real. Saturday morning made for some contrasting scenes during the second University of Rhode Island football training camp scrimmage. Offense and defense butted heads as the Rams continued to work toward their Aug. 28 debut under the lights at Merrimack and the start of what they hope will be a third straight journey to the FCS playoffs. Tyler Budge and Alex McClelland took the bulk of the snaps under center in place of Devin Farrell (lower body), who is still recovering from offseason surgery. Marquis Buchanan (shoulder) was held out as a precaution after a crash landing during a live drill in Friday’s session. Defensive lineman Sahnai Swain-Price (ankle), running back Gabe Winowich (hamstring) and linebacker Toddrick Brewton were among those watching from the sideline. How many of those could be in uniform against the Warriors? URI – currently ranked No. 7 in the preseason national polls and the prohibitive favorite again in the Coastal Athletic Association – is balancing present and future while chasing more glory in December. “That was a lot of fun today,” defensive lineman Case Mankins said. “Going against each other every day in fall camp, it’s fun. But when it’s time to really hit, you let loose.” Farrell was named the preseason Offensive Player of the Year in the conference after a strong performance in 2025. He did some light throwing before the real action started on the grass fields just across the driveway from the Ryan Center but didn’t take part in any live drills. Budge and McClelland – with the Georgia Southern transfer appearing to lead the former Barrington standout in the race for the backup job – both found some success and a few struggles. “It would be a photo finish for [Farrell] to be ready for the first game,” head coach Jim Fleming said. “We’re prepared to go either way.” Former backup Conner Kenyon transferred to Central Connecticut State in the offseason with the expectation of starting for the Blue Devils. He was unlikely to displace Farrell here and would have been pressed into extended time only in case of a major injury. Budge’s rolling completion to Aboraa Kwarteng along the right sideline and touchdown pass to Will Dixon came before a pair of interceptions, including one to Jermel Bynum on a pass toward the right flat. “We’ve been able to develop those two quarterbacks,” Fleming said. “That’s going to be a critical piece for us. We’re not sure how it’s going to go in the early part of the season.” Terrence Campbell broke a long touchdown run on the opening series, a highlight for the former All-State selection from La Salle. He’s competing on a backfield depth chart that includes Winowich, veteran speedster BJ Barrow and a pair of notable incoming freshmen in former Classical star Jordan Duke and New York native Brayden Richardson. Kwarteng is among a host of perimeter targets alongside Buchanan, the two-time All-American who graduated ahead of Duke with the Purple. “Now it really becomes a little bit of a shift,” Fleming said. “We know what we can do. Put our people in position to get ready to go play a game.” The defense found its footing under the bright sunshine after a rocky start, harassing McClelland on the third series through a sack off the edge by Elijah Rich and a pressure up the middle from Dartmouth transfer Tyson Grimm. A later series saw a near interception by returning linebacker Rohan Davy and two passes batted down by Moses Meus and Yale transfer Dylan Yang. The Rams should be disruptive in their front seven on that side of the ball, with Yang and Central Michigan transfer Oumar Conde adding some needed depth alongside Mankins up front. “When you’re a younger guy everything is so fast,” Mankins said. “As an older guy I’m able to take a step back now and see everything bigger picture. We’ve got guys who are freshmen and other guys who’ve got to figure it out.” AJ Peña and Justin Carcel are both practicing with the team and would be impact additions if they’re allowed on the field for a fifth year. Peña graduated in the spring as the program’s all-time leader in sacks and tackles for loss, while Carcel offers depth and ability in the secondary. Both could be eligible via the court system if Class of 2022 athletes are grandfathered into the new NCAA system that would grant enrolling high school and prep players a five-year, age-based window to complete their respective college careers. “As much as I can follow the legalese, I think the NCAA is still trying to get it overturned,” Fleming said. “We’re also watching other states make state decisions to allow kids to play. I’d like to see if we can get some support from the State House to be able to do the same thing. “We certainly think they deserve to play and take advantage of that.” bkoch@providencejournal.com On X: @BillKoch25 This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: URI football navigates injuries, eligibility questions as season nears

New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart made it clear he has little interest in revisiting a familiar topic.After leaving the Giants' preseason opener against the Minnesota Vikings, the second-year quarterback hinted to NBC's Bruce Beck that his latest trip to the blue medical tent was unnecessary.I think Jaxson Dart is tired of talking about the blue tent pic.twitter.com/mlsnU2Yt2a— Talkin’ Giants (@TalkinGiants) August 15, 2026“I'm not going to talk too much about the tent," he said.The comment came after Dart was sent to the blue medical tent late in the first quarter. On second-and-10, Vikings safety Jay Ward blitzed untouched when running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. missed his assignment. Ward delivered a crushing hit that flattened Dart, primarily to the torso. Dart got up slowly and was immediately evaluated.He missed only a couple of snaps before returning. On his first play back, Dart scrambled left and found rookie wide receiver Malachi Fields for a 15-yard touchdown that gave the Giants a 7-3 lead. Dart finished 3-of-4 for 26 yards in limited action.After the game, Dart was even more direct about his frustration."I’m still puzzled by (how) it feels like every time I get hit, I find my way in there," he told reporters, adding that he "respects" the NFL's effort to protect players.Head coach John Harbaugh said he was somewhat surprised by the tent evaluation.“Their job is to err on the side of player safety, so I can’t argue with that, either,” Harbaugh noted.Asked about his reaction to the hit itself, he kept the focus simple.“My feelings in that moment was, we need to block better," he said.The episode quickly revived discussion of Dart’s frequent tent visits. Including preseason, he has gone to the medical tent in 43 percent of his career starts, with five trips across a 10-game span last season.Observers noted the latest hit did not appear to involve his head, yet the existing narrative around his physical style continues to trigger heightened scrutiny. Dart, cleared quickly, simply preferred not to discuss it.This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: New York Giants QB Jaxson Dart miffed over latest blue tent trip

HSV in advanced talks to sign Leeds defenderA move back to Germany looks to be on the cards for former VfL Wolfsburg and 1. FC Köln centre-back Sebastiaan Bornauw.According to Sky Germany, Hamburger SV are in advanced talks with Leeds United over a deal to sign the 27-year-old defender.The Bundesliga outfit are hoping to bring Bornauw in on loan with an option to buy.With Leeds having agreed a deal to sign another centre-back in Nico Elvedi from Borussia Mönchengladbach, the path is now clear for Bornauw to make the switch to HSV.Leeds reportedly paid €6 million to sign Bornauw from VfL Wolfsburg in the summer of 2025. The Belgian defender made 17 appearances in his first season with the English club.

PAYSON - The Arizona State athletic department plans to monetize its brand, but is taking its time in doing so, according to athletic director Graham Rossini.Rossini spoke to the media as the Sun Devils warmed up for their annual scrimmage at Camp Tontozona on Aug. 15. Among the topics was the chance to put advertising on the school's jerseys for multiple sports. The subject has been a hot topic since the Big 12 announced Monster Energy as a conference sponsor for football along with men's and women's basketball. That sponsorship will not interfere with schools drawing their own sponsors.Notre Dame reached a multiyear deal with SoFi Technologies that will place the financial services company's brand on the school's jerseys in every sport, while Ohio State reached a deal with JPMorgan Chase. The institution will reportedly pay Ohio State $17 million a year in exchange for having its logo on jerseys for the university's 36 sports teams.Rossini said ASU is in the information-gathering stage, trying to determine which advertising partner works best."We're excited about the Big 12 sponsorship. That's separate from the jersey patch," he said. "We're still marketing and promoting the opportunity for a jersey patch. We're not going to do it just to do it. We've talked to partners where there is great alignment with the university, not just the jersey patch. "There are some incredible opportunities within football and at Desert Financial Arena. We don't need to do it. It's about maximizing the opportunity. We're hard at work. When we find the right opportunity, we'll be ready to move on that."Among other topics, Rossini addressed facility issues. The football team spent four days in Arizona's high country at Camp Tontozona, located about 20 miles northeast of Payson. The camp's accommodations have been an ongoing issue. The artificial turf field, which was installed in 2019, has taken a beating. Coach Kenny Dillingham changed up the team's schedule so it would not have back-to-back physically tough days on the surface.Rossini said since the team uses it just a few days of the year, it isn't a priority. "It serves its purpose. The outdoor, uncomfortable dynamic is part of the goal. It's about guys getting out of their comfort zone. It's not as much about the bells and whistles of the facility. So we haven't spent a lot of time on that," he said. Major renovations are continuing at Desert Financial Arena, and the construction of a new indoor football facility is front and center."We're on track for a fall groundbreaking (for football)," he said. "There's a lot of collaboration going on throughout the university on the football-volleyball practice facility. Still fine-tuning some fundraisers, some details, but the plan is to break ground this fall. At some point, we'll have renderings we plan to show."We'll probably have Desert Financial Arena and those plans to show first. The football-volleyball facility would follow shortly after that. But hard at work. Really good collaboration, incredible design coming together."As far as other facilities, Rossini said conversations are still ongoing about relocating the track and tennis facilities. He added there is potential financial benefit for ASU athletics with the development of the Novus Innovation Corridor at the main Tempe campus.Rossini added the buildup to football season has been heightened by the Sun Devils playing in the Union Jack Classic against Kansas in London's Wembley Stadium on Sept. 19. He said the school is up to about 9,000 tickets sold for that game, after selling out its initial allotment of 6,000.It will be the first college football game played in London."We can't wait to get to London," he said. "Incredible opportunity. The closer it gets, the more we recognize the significance of the game there. We get to set the stage for college football and what it will look like there. Everywhere you go, there are fans talking about their trips and what they're doing before London, going to Ireland or Scotland to golf, going on Mediterranean river cruises. In true Sun Devil fashion, people are taking advantage of the opportunity."This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona State AD still eyes sponsor, 'can't wait' for London game

Phoenix Mercury coach Nate Tibbetts may not understand exactly what the Indiana Fever's Stephanie White has dealt with the past week or so, but he can empathize. \n In a recent pregame interview, Tibbetts lamented the WNBA's frequent brushes with controversy, so many of them involving the Fever.\n White has been criticized by the state's lieutenant governor after a postgame comment regarding the Chicago Sky's DiJonai Carrington. White gave an impassioned defense of her players before she was booed while being introduced the next game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Fever players also defended White, who received an ovation before Friday night's game against the New York Liberty.\n "There are some things that our coaches have to deal with on a night-to-night level, and I feel sorry for those coaches," Tibbetts said Saturday. \n "Some of things that Steph goes through, that is wrong. There is no other coach in professional sports that ... it's not fair. She was hired as a coach, and they've got a great team and they are dealing with stuff that doesn't really matter. That still pisses me off."\n Buy 2026 Indiana Fever tickets!\n The Fever have had a lot of potential distractions this season, yet they have won three straight games and are fourth in the standings of the 15-team league. \n Indiana has had issues with the Mercury this season. Sophie Cunningham got into a pointing match with former Fever player DeWanna Bonner, and Alyssa Thomas was suspended after putting a fist to Caitlin Clark's throat during a scramble for the ball. (No foul was called on the play.)\n Cunningham's comments on transgender women playing sports prompted a national firestorm.\n Doyel: Tuesday was a breaking point for Stephanie White and, perhaps, turning point for WNBA\n Tibbetts said the league is getting too much unwanted attention.\n "I don't know why that happens in our league. I don't know who can help change this," he said. "Is it the coaches, or the players? Is it the media?\n "There are outside sources trying to create division. And, at times, (it's) not a lot of fun for our players."\n Nate Tibbetts on Stephanie White, via @HaydenCilley:"Some of the things that Steph has to go through... There's no other coach in any professional sport that has to go through the stuff that she does... It's not fair. She's hired to coach basketball."pic.twitter.com/ezbu41irEU— Underdog WNBA (@UnderdogWNBA) August 15, 2026\n Get IndyStar's Indiana Fever and Caitlin Clark coverage sent directly to your inbox with our Caitlin Clark Fever newsletter. Subscribe to IndyStar TV: Fever for in-depth analysis, behind-the-scenes coverage and more. \n This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: WNBA coach defends Indiana Fever's Stephanie White amid league discourse: 'That is wrong'

A football is pictured at Skyridge High School in Lehi on Friday, Nov. 3, 2023. | Kristin Murphy, Deseret News The opening Friday night of the high school football season is in the books, and there was no shortage of outstanding games around the state.Here’s a few notes and highlights from some of those games.Instant classicSnow Canyon’s 64-62 triple-overtime win over Spanish Fork on Friday night was an absolute barn burner — the definition of an instant classic.“It felt a lot more like a basketball game than a football game, that’s for sure,” said first-year Snow Canyon coach Zach Tauteoli. “They would take a punch, we’d feel that punch and then kind of punch back, and then we just ended up on our end kind of a little more resilient.”The teams combined for 1,014 yards, most of those through the air — 784.Individually, there were some elite performances. Spanish Fork quarterback Hawkin Rasmussen tossed six touchdowns in his debut, including five to Nixon Warren, who finished with 268 yards.After the game, Tauteoli said when his players kept raving about Warren having a full-ride scholarship to BYU, he replied, “Well, that makes sense. And then they told me it was for baseball, and I’m like, ‘wow, alright.’”Snow Canyon quarterback Parker Olson threw five touchdowns to three different receivers while also rushing for two TDs.Snow Canyon seemed in control up 27-7 late in the second quarter, and then up 42-35 with under a minute remaining, but Spanish Fork never relented, rallying to force overtime.Both teams have new head coaches this season. That unfamiliarity played a factor.“Felt like the game where you think you have something figured out, and then they come back with something that you haven’t seen yet,” said Tauteoli. “But it’s a huge credit to our kids to be able to kind of take something and then fight back.”Tied 42-42 after regulation, Snow Canyon and Spanish Fork both scored touchdowns on their two possessions, with Olson tossing a pair of TDs and Rasmussen converting one rushing and one passing TD.Tied 56-56 heading into the third OT, the new UHSAA overtime rules that were introduced a few years ago should’ve been used but weren’t — a mistake confirmed by the UHSAA.Beginning in the third overtime, all possessions are supposed to be two-point tries only. Instead, both teams received a normal possession starting at the 25-yard line.Spanish Fork went first and scored on a Kohen Frost six-yard TD reception, but the Dons missed the extra point and led 62-56. Brody Lounsbury made a big defensive stop at the goal line on the two-point attempt.Snow Canyon tied the game on its possession on a 12-yard TD run from Lounsbury, with Lounsbury converting the two-point conversion for the 64-62 win.Stellar opener for DeltaA year ago, Delta dropped its season opener in humbling fashion to Juab, 40-0 en route to a disappointing 2-8 campaign.What a difference a year makes.The Rabbits opened the season with a dramatic 29-26 win over Juab, one of the biggest eye-opening performances of Friday night’s season openers.“Last night was a great team win. It’s always nice to start your season off with a win and some momentum,” said Delta coach Denton Peterson. “None of us were happy with the results of last season. That’s not our standard. That’s not Delta football. The team has worked hard in the offseason and Juab is always a tough test to gauge where we are at beginning each season. We have a long way to go to get to where we want to be, but the effort is there, the buy in is there.”Delta jumped out fast, building a 14-0 lead late in the first quarter. Juab responded with strong second and third quarters to take a 26-21 lead into the fourth quarter.Delta ultimately pulled out the win on a Bodey Shurtz one-yard TD run with 4:54 remaining for its first win over Juab since 2017.That was also the last season Delta enjoyed a winning record, as it finished 8-3 in 2017.Tooele wins it in final secondsTooele’s offense stalled throughout much of Friday night’s opener, with just one touchdown on the board heading into the final minute.When the offense needed it most, though, it finally put together a drive.After Union’s Bryson Winterton booted a 27-yard field goal with 2:33 remaining in the game to give the Cougars a 10-7 lead, Tooele drove the length of the field and scored the game-winning TD with just four seconds remaining.Kami Vaenuku punched it in with four seconds remaining as the Buffaloes rallied for the 14-10 victory.“Proud of our boys and their belief in each other. The defense came through big at the end, holding Union to a field goal in the low red zone. Our offense never flinched, executing on a late two-minute drive to put us in a position to win that game,” said Tooele coach Tuli Wily-Matagi. “The big boys did an amazing job, most of them playing in the trenches on both sides the entire night. I couldn’t be more proud of the way our team stayed in the fight and trusted one another.”Tooele finished the game with 195 rushing yards, led by Gus Pater’s 82 yards.Clutch defensive standsAt Woods Cross and North Summit on Friday, defenses flexed their muscles when it mattered most.In the final two minutes of both games, the defenses stuffed a two-point conversion attempt that ultimately preserved exciting one-point, season-opening wins.Woods Cross denied Syracuse’s two-point conversion attempt with 1:54 remaining as it held on for the narrow 27-26 win, while North Summit denied Enterprise’s two-point conversion attempt with 1:27 remaining to secure the 14-13 win.“It was a great team win last night. I am proud of the way we played physical all night long. Our young men handled adversity and continued to fight,” said Woods Cross coach Brody Benson.“Proud of our defense to pull up their boot straps in that situation. Giving up a touchdown, allowing them to get into that position where they could go ahead with a two-point, I thought our guys did a great job of recognizing the trick play and continuing to fight to keep them out of the end zone. Very proud of our guys.”Offensive, Tage Ita rushed for a pair of scores for Woods Cross.North Summit took the 14-7 lead early in the fourth quarter on a Knox Woolstenhulme one-yard score, but Enterprise battled back, scoring a touchdown by Jake Christensen late. It opted to go for the win instead of the tie.“Our kids showed incredible resilience and battled through adversity most of the night. Our defense kept us in the game and sealed it for us at the end. Enterprise is not an easy place to win. So we are grateful we snuck it out. Couldn’t be more proud of our kids for their efforts,” said North Summit coach Dalton Ross.Impressive debutsOf the 29 first-year head coaches in Utah this year, 27 debuted on Friday night.Thirteen of those coaches won their openers, including a big win for new Corner Canyon coach Casey Sutera over Davis.Two of the most impressive wins came in debut performances from Region 6 coaches.New Brighton coach Josh Montzingo’s team blitzed West Field for a 34-0 road victory.Olympus new head coach Casey Evans led his team to a 49-14 win at Cedar Valley as the Titans coasted after building a 49-0 halftime lead.“We had a fast start to the game and we never slowed down. The defense played physical, fast and smart. The pick six to start the game was ideal. The offense was very effective on first down and we were extremely balanced rushing and passing the football,” said Evans.Other first-year coaches who prevailed on Friday night were Orem’s Andy Stokes, Payson’s Mike Cole, Timpanogos’ Nolan Nielsen, Desert Hills’ Tanner Balderree, Pine View’s Ray Hosner, Snow Canyon’s Zach Tauteoli, Bear River’s Craig Anhder, Logan’s Justin Hugie, ALA’s Joe DuPaix and North Summit’s Dalton Ross.

All summer, national soccer teams played on a grass field within MetLife Stadium during the World Cup. In the second NFL game back on the field's usual artificial turf surface, a player suffered a non-contact injury.Minnesota Vikings linebacker Jamal Adams suffered a knee injury during his team's preseason opener against the New York Giants, Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell said after the game. O'Connell said the injury was "not good" and did not provide additional details.Adams was tracking Giants receiver Calvin Austin while playing in coverage on a second-and-12 play when the injury happened. While following Austin's sprint across the width of the field, Adams stumbled and fell forward. After hitting the ground, he immediately rolled over onto his backside and grabbed his knee.Non-contact injury for Jamal Adams (32) on NYG’s cement turf. Brutal. He was going to contribute heavily to this defense. pic.twitter.com/fE0fcxSJF1— Thor Nystrom (@thorku) August 15, 2026GIANTS-VIKINGS: Jaxson Dart gets another concussion check in preseason openerAdams went to the blue medical tent on the Vikings' sideline after the play. After an initial evaluation in the tent, Minnesota's medical staff carted him back to the locker room.Adams, who began his career as a safety for the New York Jets, converted to linebacker last year with the Las Vegas Raiders. He played in all 17 games for Las Vegas last year – his first time playing every game in a season since 2018 – and recorded 45 tackles, five tackles for a loss, a forced fumble and a sack.The nine-year NFL veteran signed with the Vikings on July 28. Minnesota also lists Adams' position as linebacker on its official roster.Jamal Adams injury updateThe Vikings have not provided any official update on Adams' status since the end of the game.O'Connell told reporters that initial examination on the linebacker's right knee injury "does not look good." Adams will get an MRI to determine the extent of his injury."We are going to wrap our arms around him top to bottom in our organization, and we're going to support him," O'Connell said, "because he’s earned a lot of people’s respect in a very short amount of time. That's what he deserves, and I know that's how our coaches and players feel."VIKINGS QB BATTLE: Kyler Murray named Vikings starting QB. What does that mean for JJ McCarthy?MetLife Stadium turf injuriesAdams is the latest victim of a non-contact injury suffered from the turf at the home of the Giants and Jets. Here's a list of some of the other players who sustained their own injuries at MetLife in recent years:New York Giants WR Malik Nabers: Torn ACL, 2025Miami Dolphins edge rusher Jaelan Phillips: Torn Achilles, 2023New York Jets QB Aaron Rodgers: Torn Achilles, 2023Baltimore Ravens CB Kyle Fuller: Torn ACL, 2022Giants WR Sterling Shepard: Torn ACL, 2022Giants WR Wan'Dale Robinson: Torn ACL, 2022San Francisco 49ers DE Nick Bosa: Torn ACL, 202049ers DL Solomon Thomas: Torn ACL, 2020Contributing: Michael Middlehurst-SchwartzThis article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Vikings' Jamal Adams becomes latest victim of MetLife Stadium turf

LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Milwaukee Brewers acquired Jonathan Ornelas from the Athletics on Saturday in an effort to help their struggling infield.Ornelas, 26, was in the lineup for the Brewers' game against the Los Angeles Dodgers on Saturday night, starting at second base and hitting ninth after Milwaukee acquired him for cash considerations.Ornelas has played 38 career games for the Texas Rangers, Atlanta Braves and Athletics, hitting .200 with two doubles and three RBIs. He made six appearances for the Athletics this season, posting a .167 average in 13 plate appearances. Brewers infielder Brice Turang is dealing with a left knee injury, but manager Pat Murphy does not believe it will require a stint on the injured list. Milwaukee has lost four of five on a Southern California road trip.Infielder Jihwan Bae was designated for assignment in a corresponding move.___See AP’s full MLB coverage here

Malachi Fields celebrates a touchdown catch on Saturday. | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — Let’s review the New York Giants’ preseason-opening 13-10 loss to the Minnesota Vikings as only we can, with our unique ‘Kudos & Wet Willies’ review of who played well and who did not.Kudos to …Malachi Fields — The rookie wide receiver had a 15-yard touchdown catch from a scrambling Jaxson Dart that perfectly illustrated the kind of weapon he can be. He worked for the quarterback and used his size, athleticism, and strong hands to haul in the touchdown pass. Fields finished with three catches for 34 yards.– Gets Sacked– Taken out of game for concussion protocol – Comes right back and throws a dime to Malachi Fields for the TD The Jaxson Dart experience (via @NFL)pic.twitter.com/QT7Q0Fpwhy— B/R Gridiron (@brgridiron) August 15, 2026Braxton Berrios — I will just come out and say it. If Berrios gets through the preseason healthy, he is making the roster. Berrios was the first punt returner and was on the first kickoff return group with Deonte Banks. He had two 15-yard punt returns and caught a pass for 9 yards.Darius Alexander — The second-year player was a better pass rusher than run defender as a rookie. Saturday, things looked the same. Alexander had a sack, a tackle for loss, and a quarterback hit.Chauncey Golston — The versatile backup edge defender/defensive end had a tackle for loss and two quarterback hits in limited action.Odell Beckham Jr. — Beckham had just two catches for 6 yards, but I am including him simply because seeing him playing in a Giants uniform in MetLife Stadium at this point was ool.Odell Beckham Jr. CATCH pic.twitter.com/1YJ9uc6ONc— Giants Nation Show (@GiantsNationPod) August 15, 2026Isaiah Likely — The Giants’ new tight end has been forming a good relationship with Dart during training camp, and it showed up on Saturday. Likely had just two catches for 11 yards in brief action, but both were third-down grabs that created first downs.Jack Kelly — The sixth-round pick was impressive. As he has been all summer. Kelly had a team-high five tackles. He was a big part of the reason Darius Alexander was able to get his sack.Exceptional blitz design by Dennard Wilson for the #GiantsDarius Alexander commits and then drops to spy, which isolated LB Jack Kelly against the RB, and Kelly WALKS the RB into McCarthy.CB blitz w/ Golston dropping into coverage. JJ steps up into a waiting Alexander, sack pic.twitter.com/Jo92hQOwMD— Nick Falato (@nickfalato) August 15, 2026Wet Willies to …First-half run defense — The Giants’ run defense has been an issue for years. Harbaugh has made fixing it a MAJOR emphasis. The Giants were playing on Saturday without front seven starters D.J. Reader, Shelby Harris, Brian Burns, and Tremaine Edmunds.With that in mind, it might be tempting to shrug off the fact that the Giants gave up 5.2 yards per carry in the first half (62 yards on 12 rushes), but we should not. There were 17- and 15-yard runs on Minnesota’s first offensive series.All of that indicates that the defensive line depth is not good enough. GM Joe Schoen needs to be looking for upgrades, especially at the backup nose tackle spot, when teams trim their rosters from 90 to 53 players.Brandon Allen — The third-string quarterback entered the game midway through the third quarter. He threw his first pass directly to Minnesota linebacker Jacob Roberts, giving Minnesota the ball at New York’s 27-yard line. The Vikings capitalized with a 1-yard touchdown pass from Carson Wentz to Myles Price.Allen threw a second interception later, trying to fit a deep throw down the sideline to wide receiver Ryan Miller. The ball was intercepted by safety Jacob Thomas, a result you could see coming from the press box as soon as Allen let the ball go.Allen might be a great guy. We know he is a favorite of Giants’ quarterbacks coach Brian Callahan. There has to e a better option out there somewhere for the Giants as their third quarterback.Deonte Banks — With Paulson Adebo and Greg Newsome not playing, the 2023 first-round pick played the entire first half. Unfortunately, Banks did not carry the momentum of a good training camp into the game. He committed back-to-back penalties on second-quarter passes by J.J. McCarthy, a defensive holding and an illegal contact.Other cornerback notes: Art Green had a pass interference penalty on third-and-goal from the 1-yard line. Korie Black had a pass interference penalty. Rookie Colton Hood had an illegal contact penalty and gave up a 42-yard completion from J.J. McCarthy to Myles Price.Kwillies to …Jaxson Dart — The second-year quarterback did some good things, some bad things, and had an unfortunate, unwanted visit to the medical tent for a concussion check.Dart threw a beautiful 15-yard touchdown pass to Fields. That was an improvised scramble play with Dart moving to his left, the kind of unscripted play on which Dart excels.Dart found his new favorite target, Isaiah Likely, for two first downs.On the negative side, Dart took two sacks. The first one bothered me more than the big hit he took on the second one because it appeared to be his fault. He had an opportunity to throw the ball, chose not to, and ended up holding the ball and running himself into a sack. Dart led the league in sacks with the quarterback being at least partially responsible last season, and he needs to get better about not causing negative plays.

This week’s deal for the Los Angeles Lakers, which valued the team at a record $12.5 billion, was the latest in a pattern of skyrocketing prices.

CHICAGO (AP) — Joshua Báez smashed the first pitch he saw in the majors about 450 feet, then flashed a grin to the St. Louis dugout as he began his home run trot.“There was a calmness and a smile, like, ‘I’m here,’” Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol said. “It’s rare for me to pick my head up to enjoy parts of it. He didn’t exactly give us an option but to actually take a step back and enjoy the heck out of what was going on there.”There has never been a show quite like it.Báez became the first player to hit a home run in each of his first three at-bats in the majors, leading the Cardinals to an 8-4 victory over the Chicago Cubs on Saturday. Called up from Triple-A Memphis before the game, Báez had 30 members of his family in attendance at Wrigley Field. The traveling party, which included his mother, Yris, gathered on the field for photos afterward in spite of rain.“It’s just unreal,” the 23-year-old Báez said. “To not only get a hit, but three home runs? It’s crazy.”He did it with flair, too. The first came on the first pitch he saw from Matthew Boyd and landed an estimated 449 feet away in the bleachers in left-center. The left fielder's next at-bat ended with a solo shot down the left-field line and the third, on his ensuing at-bat, went the opposite way, giving him five RBIs.Major League Baseball said Báez was the first player in modern baseball history to hit three home runs in his debut. The league cannot say with certainty whether the feat happened before 1901 due to a lack of game logs.“He hit three different pitches for home runs. He had a great game. He beat us for sure,” Cubs manager Craig Counsell said.Báez showed plenty of power in the minors this season. When he was called up, he was leading all Triple-A hitters with 34 home runs, including four multihomer games.He’s the ninth player to make his major league debut for the Cardinals this season.Báez also is the 11th St. Louis player to homer in his first career at-bat (the last was Lane Thomas in 2019) and sixth in club history to homer on the first pitch. Former pitcher Adam Wainwright last did it in 2006.___See AP’s full MLB coverage here

PHILADELPHIA – Neil Magny keeps climbing in the UFC record books. At UFC 330, Magny (32-14 MMA, 25-13 UFC) once again defied the odds as he finished Ramiz Brahimaj (13-7 MMA, 5-5 UFC) with punches at 3:20 of Round 2. The welterweight prelim took place Saturday at Xfinity Mobile Arena.It wasn't easy, but Magny persevered as he is known to do. The finishing sequence came against the fence. As Magny leaned on Brahimaj, he landed a punch that dropped Brahimaj to his knees. Brahimaj was visibly stunned, and Magny capitalized. He hit Brahimaj over and over again until the referee intervened.NEIL MAGNY STOPS BRAHIMAJ IN RD 2!📺 #UFC330 on @paramountpluspic.twitter.com/yazktGTnUH— UFC on Paramount+ (@UFConParamount) August 15, 2026With the victory, Magny ties Charles Oliveira for the second-most wins in UFC history at 25. The only fighter with more wins is Jim Miller, who is still active, in first place with 28 promotional victories.In defeat, Brahimaj has lost back-to-back fights. The skid comes after three consecutive wins.Up-to-the-minute UFC 330 results include:Neil Magny def. Ramiz Brahimaj via TKO (punches) – Round 2, 3:20Jeremiah Wells def. Myktybek Orolbai via submission (guillotine choke) - Round 3, 1:24This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: UFC 330 video: Neil Magny upsets Ramiz Brahimaj with TKO barrage

Amy Hunt won her third gold medal of a potential historic quadruple and Dina Asher-Smith earned a spot in the record books as Great Britain's 4x100m relay stars put on a show at the European Championships.Britain's new sprint sensation Hunt celebrated her third title in six days, following triumphs in the 100m and 200m, as the GB women's quartet claimed the hosts' second gold medal in a spectacular ending to Saturday's action in Birmingham.The 24-year-old will now attempt to become the first athlete to win four gold medals at a single edition in the event's 92-year history when the mixed 4x100m relay takes place on Sunday.Team-mate Asher-Smith, meanwhile, achieved her seventh gold at the championships - 10 years after capturing her first.With that, the 30-year-old matched the record tally also held by Norway’s Jakob Ingebrigtsen and Croatian discus thrower Sandra Elkasevic.Following her 200m bronze on Thursday, Asher-Smith also equalled Polish sprinter Irena Szewinska's overall record tally of 10 medals at the championships.In an utterly dominant performance, Imani-Lara Lansiquot completed the job for a GB team which also featured 21-year-old student midwife Success Eduan, crossing the line in 42.05 seconds - more than a second clear of fellow medallists Switzerland (43.12) and Poland (43.15).Hunt told BBC Sport: "I am stood next to the real life GOAT [greatest of all time]. She [Asher-Smith] is the most decorated European athlete in history."I am stood next to some amazing women. This girl [Eduan] is a midwife, she brings babies into the world. This girl [Lansiquot] wrote a play. We're all amazing. "That was stunning to come together. I had the time of my life."Johnson-Thompson vows she still has hunger to competeFresh rivals & forced to settle for silver - but Hodgkinson up for fightEuropean Championships medal table & GB medallistsJust 15 minutes earlier, 100m gold medallist Romell Glave stormed down the home straight to bring the men's quartet home for gold in 38.45 seconds, ahead of Germany (38.64) and Belgium (38.70).The men's team also led for most of the final, with Jeremiah Azu, Louie Hinchliffe and then 200m silver medallist Zharnel Hughes safely guiding the baton around to huge cheers inside Alexander Stadium.That was Hughes' fifth European gold, taking the former world 100m medallist level with Matthew Hudson-Smith, Mo Farah and Roger Black as the most successful British man at the championships.The two relay successes took Britain's medal tally to 12 - including six golds - as the hosts remained in hot pursuit of table-topping Italy heading into the final day of competition.There was a sense that Asher-Smith's seamless baton changeover to Hunt was a symbolic moment, in its wider context.As one British sprint star achieved a piece of history a decade in the making, the other continued to demonstrate that she is only just getting started.Asher-Smith, a world champion over 200m and British record holder over both sprint distances, has amassed 22 senior international medals since making her debut in the women's 4x100m squad at the 2013 World Championships.She was the last athlete to achieve a sprint treble at the European Championships in 2018, 12 months before completing her rise to the top of an individual global podium.Until now.Hunt, undeniably the star of these championships as she seeks to capture an "iconic" four golds, will ultimately hope to emulate Asher-Smith and translate continental dominance to global success in the coming years.Continuing to progress rapidly following an injury-disrupted start to her senior career, the Cambridge University graduate claimed a breakthrough first individual global medal with world silver in Tokyo last year.Back on home soil, Hunt made no secret that she intends to take it all this week.So far, none have been able to stop her. But her work in Birmingham is not yet complete.Monday's 100m gold represented her first senior international title. Then she held off Asher-Smith in the 200m. Now, joining forces with her British team-mates to retain their relay title, the treble is hers.The mixed 4x100m is a new addition to these championships, and not a gold previously available to Asher-Smith as she built her record collection of honours.It remains to be seen whether Asher-Smith will choose to join Hunt in that event, which would give her the chance to assert herself as the outright most successful athlete in championship history.GB trio narrowly miss out on 1500m medalsGreat Britain's 40-year wait to win the men's 1500m title continued despite Jake Wightman and Jake Heyward leading on the final bend.Wightman, who completed his return to the world podium last September following injury setbacks, faded to sixth (3:37.18) behind team-mates Heyward (3:36.40) and Arlo Ludewick (3:36.65), who narrowly missed out on the medals in fourth and fifth respectively.Gold was won by fast-finishing Dutchman Stefan Nillessen in three minutes 35.70 seconds, ahead of Sweden's Samuel Pihlstrom and Ireland's Andrew Coscoran.Katarina Johnson-Thompson finished 21st overall in the heptathlon, with British team-mate Jade O'Dowda 13th, as Ireland's Kate O'Connor backed up her Commonwealth title with European gold.There was disappointment for 2025 world indoor champion Amber Anning, who was forced to pull out of the women's 400m final after suffering an injury during her warm-up.Yemi Mary John placed fifth in 51.12 seconds, ahead of Anning's late replacement Charlotte Henrich (51.29), as Norway's Henriette Jaeger took a dominant victory in 49.04 seconds.Morgan Lake cleared 1.88 metres for eighth in the women's high jump final, won by Yaroslava Mahuchikh after Ukraine's Olympic champion produced a first-time clearance over 1.97m.O'Connor secures European gold in heptathlon'Glam helps mentality' says sprinter Amy Hunt, but can it give you that winning edge?European Championships: Day seven schedule & BBC coverage

As the 2026 NFL regular season approaches, the Lions could potentially face a familiar face this year as former running back Jermar Jefferson agreed to a contract with the Minnesota Vikings.The Vikings signed Jefferson after waiving Jordan Mims with an injury designation. Jefferson had three carries for no gain in the Vikings' preseason opener against the New York Giants on Saturday.Jefferson was a seventh-round pick out of Oregon State in 2021 and was with the Lions until Detroit released him in 2024. After leaving Detroit, he had stops with the Tennessee Titans, San Francisco 49ers, and Arizona Cardinals.The #Vikings have signed RB Jermar Jefferson (@Munchie1_) and waived RB Jordan Mims. pic.twitter.com/Y5GeBLE6Uq— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) August 12, 2026In Jefferson's nine games played with Detroit, he rushed for 96 yards on 21 carries with two touchdowns, to go along with 33 receiving yards on five catches.If Jefferson finds himself on the Vikings' 53-man roster, he will face the Lions twice this season. The first matchup is on Sunday, Nov. 1 at Ford Field in Detroit.For more Lions coverage, follow us on X, @TheLionsWire, and give our Facebook page a like. Follow Scout on X: @SpringgateNewsThis article originally appeared on Lions Wire: Former Detroit Lions RB inks deal with Minnesota Vikings

Here are some observations from Day 12 of Lions training camp in Allen Park on Saturday.▶ The Lions held a glorified walk-through at Saturday's practice. Today's observations will be heavily slanted toward a newsy press conference from Lions coach Dan Campbell and the deployment of several players who returned from injury.▶ Interior offensive lineman Juice Scruggs returned to the practice field on Saturday. The team did very few 11-on-11 reps, but when they did, Scruggs manned the first-team reps. Lions coach Dan Campbell said that Scruggs is still very much a candidate to win the starting center job in Cade Mays' absence. Former undrafted free agent Seth McLaughlin manned all the first-team reps last week, with Mays and Scruggs not practicing, and more than held his own in Detroit's preseason opener against the Cincinnati Bengals. While we haven't seen it yet, Campbell also said he expects right guard Tate Ratledge to begin working at center, just in case they need him to play the position in a pinch. Ratledge began working at center for the first three days of last year's camp before moving to right guard; we haven't seen him take a snap at center since."We're going to work him a little bit," Campbell said. "I don't know how much we'll do in team (drills), but certainly we're going to be snapping him some pre-practice. And then he's been going through some of the calls, things like that. So, we're just prepared. We have to be willing to go wherever we can go with this."▶ With Scruggs and offensive guard Ben Bartch missing time early in camp, left guard Christian Mahogany has yet to have a true challenger for his job at left guard. Still, Campbell said his job is far from safe. "This is still an ongoing battle," Campbell said. "I think we'll get Juice back today ... and Bartch is back. He'll be getting more and more reps. So, let Mahogany and Bartch go at it over there at the left guard, and then obviously, we're evaluating Juice, too, at center with Seth — or is it Ratledge? We have got to find the five best. And so, this is an ongoing battle."Mahogany had a good showing when playing the first half of Thursday's game against Cincinnati. "Mahogany, I thought he was a physical force," Campbell said. "And when he does it right, it's pretty and powerful. It's explosive. And in the pass game he's got an anchor. And then sometimes it just gets a little out of sorts. So, it's just the consistency of it."▶ Rookie cornerback Keith Abney took some first-team reps late in practice after having what Campbell called a "good game" against Cincinnati. Abney had a fumble recovery and tied for a team-high five tackles."He feels like a football player. He's felt that way out there, and I thought that showed up the other night. He's got a knack, he's pretty instinctive, plays aggressive, not too big for him," Campbell said. "I thought he did some things certainly on defense, but special teams, too."In Saturday's practice, Abney had a nice showing during one-on-one reps. He gave up a catch to wide receiver Tom Kennedy on his first rep but rebounded to break up a throw to wide receiver Malik Cunningham, in which he played through the ball, and later added a pass breakup against Kennedy to close the drill.▶ Not long after Campbell heaped praise on wide receiver Tarik Black, the lone Lions touchdown scorer on Saturday, Black got put into a box by Khalil Dorsey in one-on-one drills. Dorsey broke up the pass on all three reps against Black and added a win against wide receiver Malik Cunningham when the throw missed the intended target.▶ While we often try to avoid taking raw statistics during a training camp practice, it feels worth noting that of the 12 passes that were thrown during 7-on-7 drills, only one of them hit the turf — the last one, a throw from quarterback Josh Dobbs to Cunningham that was defended by cornerback Roger McCreary. The best catch was a one-hander from wide receiver Dominic Lovett.▶ Campbell was highly complimentary of the receivers last week, saying it's the best receiver room he's had in Detroit, and reiterated that sentiment on Saturday when discussing the performances from Thursday's game.Black, Kennedy, Tay Martin, and Cedrick Wilson Jr. all received shoutouts when asked whether anyone from the group distinguished themselves."That room right now is interesting. Tay Martin showed up again, blocking, made a one-on-one catch, separated, special teams. He forced a penalty, and that was just one play on special teams. He made more than that," Campbell said."In the return units and the kickoff units, I thought Black showed up, made some plays. He's intriguing. We got Cedrick back. ... He's a crafty, savvy veteran. Just knows how to play, man. He gets it. Smart dude, can play all the positions, goes up there and makes plays for us, and he'll mix it up and block, and he's played (special) teams before. We know Tom Kennedy, reliable, steady. So, I mean, those guys, that room right now, it's an all-out (battle) right now."▶ Defensive lineman Ben Stille had a fantastic day in linemen one-on-ones. He had an easy win over Michael Niese and manhandled McLaughlin. Edge defender Aidan Hutchinson and rookie tackle Blake Miller matched up twice; the first was somewhat of a toss-up, but the second was an emphatic win for Hutchinson. Offensive guard Tate Ratledge went two-for-two against Levi Onwuzurike and Alim McNeill, stalling both of them to get the win.nbianchi@detroitnews.com@nolanbianchiThis article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Lions training camp observations: Left guard job an 'ongoing battle'

St. Louis Cardinals' Joshua Baez, right, celebrates with his mother Yris Carmen Baez, left, after defeating the Chicago Cubs in a baseball game in Chicago, Saturday, Aug. 15, 2026. (AP Photo/Paul Beaty)2026-08-15T22:49:18Z CHICAGO (AP) — Joshua Báez smashed the first pitch he saw in the majors about 450 feet, then flashed a grin to the St. Louis dugout as he began his home run trot.“There was a calmness and a smile, like, ‘I’m here,’” Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol said. “It’s rare for me to pick my head up to enjoy parts of it. He didn’t exactly give us an option but to actually take a step back and enjoy the heck out of what was going on there.”There has never been a show quite like it.Báez became the first player to hit a home run in each of his first three at-bats in the majors, leading the Cardinals to an 8-4 victory over the Chicago Cubs on Saturday. Called up from Triple-A Memphis before the game, Báez had 30 members of his family in attendance at Wrigley Field. The traveling party, which included his mother, Yris, gathered on the field for photos afterward in spite of rain. “It’s just unreal,” the 23-year-old Báez said. “To not only get a hit, but three home runs? It’s crazy.”He did it with flair, too. The first came on the first pitch he saw from Matthew Boyd and landed an estimated 449 feet away in the bleachers in left-center. The left fielder’s next at-bat ended with a solo shot down the left-field line and the third, on his ensuing at-bat, went the opposite way, giving him five RBIs.Major League Baseball said Báez was the first player in modern baseball history to hit three home runs in his debut. The league cannot say with certainty whether the feat happened before 1901 due to a lack of game logs. “He hit three different pitches for home runs. He had a great game. He beat us for sure,” Cubs manager Craig Counsell said. Read More Báez showed plenty of power in the minors this season. When he was called up, he was leading all Triple-A hitters with 34 home runs, including four multihomer games.He’s the ninth player to make his major league debut for the Cardinals this season.Báez also is the 11th St. Louis player to homer in his first career at-bat (the last was Lane Thomas in 2019) and sixth in club history to homer on the first pitch. Former pitcher Adam Wainwright last did it in 2006.___See AP’s full MLB coverage here

The Jacksonville Jaguars recorded their first win of the preseason against the New Orleans Saints, securing a 24-20 victory on the road.After a 43-yard reception from Trevor Pena, rookie undrafted running back J'Mari Taylor scored a two-yard go-ahead touchdown with 4:55 remaining to put the Jaguars ahead in the game. It came after the team found itself in a 14-point hole going into halftime as the offense was stagnant and the defense gave up several explosive plays. But the Jaguars responded out of the half with backup quarterback Carter Bradley leading a 10 play, 79-yard scoring drive to make it a one-score contest.Game recap: Jaguars vs Saints updates from NFL preseason in New OrleansThe game still came down to the final moments as the Saints marched down the field and had a final play attempt from the 2-yard line. However, second-year defensive back Jabbar Muhammad logged a pass break up and the Jaguars start the preseason off in the win column.J’Mari Taylor gets majority of carries as Jaguars get their running game goingWith running backs Bhayshul Tuten, Chris Rodriguez and LeQuint Allen resting for the game, rookie running back J’Mari Taylor ended up being the workhorse for Jacksonville’s offense.The first-year back rushed for 78 yards on 22 carries, making the most of his game reps to put good plays on film. He led all ball carriers for the game in attempts and yardage as the Jaguars fed him a large workload in the preseason opener.Veteran back DeeJay Dallas added 26 yards, but Saturday was the Taylor show. Taylor put together several good runs in practice with Jacksonville’s reserves last week during training camp and clearly took that momentum into the game.He has set himself up well with a foundation to build on for the remainder of training camp. With two more games remaining in the preseason, there’s still a path for Taylor to make the roster ahead of the veteran running backs that are ahead of him currently.He’ll be a player to watch as the team tries to trim their roster down to 53 ahead of the cutdown deadline.Quarterbacks struggled as Jaguars' offense was stagnant to startThe Jaguars got a look at life without Trevor Lawrence during the preseason game. It was bleak.Nick Mullens started the game and did not look good in limited reps, throwing an interception in the red zone and only completing 3-of-7 passes for 33 yards. Carter Bradley didn’t fare much better in the first half, completing 3-of-8 passes for 36 yards with an interception in the first half.Bradley and Mullens forced passes after eyeing down wide receivers, which led to turnovers. They also showed an inability to extend plays as the pocket collapsed around them.Things were better in the second half as Bradley was able to put together a scoring drive to open the third quarter. Aguilar's deep shot set up the go-ahead touchdown. Still, it was a concerning sight as the team continues to work through training camp and establish solid play behind Lawrence.Several defensive players make impact plays in preseason contestThe Jaguars had a splash play late in the first quarter when Yasir Abdullah and rookie Wesley Williams forced a fumble on backup quarterback Spencer Rattler. Second-year defensive end BJ Green hustled to recover the ball to give the Jaguars good field position.It’s a continuation of a standout training camp for Green, who has flown around the practice fields of the Miller Electric Center since late July.Rookie Jalen Huskey flashed several times throughout the contest, recording a touchdown-saving tackle on the opening kickoff and a pass breakup during the contest. The safety found himself around the ball often in his reps and finished with four tackles.Ruke Orhorhoro teamed up with Danny Striggow to log a sack against the Saints. A good sign for the defensive lineman as he enters his first season with the Jaguars.Rookie Albert Regis logged a deep sack in the second half, bursting through the offensive line and dragging down the quarterback. Jabbar Muhammad struggled in coverage throughout the game, but he had the game-sealing pass break up on the final play of regulation. This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Jaguars vs. Saints takeaways: Rookie RB, defense make big plays in win

All eyes were on Ty Simpson for his NFL debut on Saturday afternoon at Arrowhead Stadium. It was the first preseason action for the Los Angeles Rams' top pick in the 2026 draft, giving fans a glimpse at what the future could hold once Matthew Stafford retires.Simpson entered the game against the Chiefs at the end of the first quarter after Stetson Bennett played two possessions, much to the excitement of the Rams' faithful around the country. Though there were probably some pre-game jitters for the rookie quarterback, the moment certainly didn't look too big for him.His first completion was a 7-yard dump-off to Max Klare on a roll-out to his right, getting the ball into the hands of a fellow rookie. It wasn't a highlight-reel play, but he took what the defense gave him, and that was an easy completion.NFL preseason debut for @ty_simpson06 🤩📺 @CBSLosAngeles | 📲 https://t.co/R5m5kJYp8Kpic.twitter.com/puMXF3H2mB— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) August 15, 2026Simpson was just 1-for-2 on his first drive, which was a brief one that ended in a punt, but he found a rhythm on the second drive. He went 4-for-4 for 41 yards during drive No. 2, capping it off with a Harrison Mevis field goal from 40 yards to put the Rams up, 6-3.His best throw on the drive was a 23-yarder to Mark Redman, once again on a boot out to his right. He layered the ball nicely to the tight end for a big gain.Ty Simpson completes the pass for 23 yards on his first snap of the Preseason.LARvsKC on @NFLnetworkStream on @NFLPluspic.twitter.com/8dfxofswGF— NFL (@NFL) August 15, 2026This throw on the run to Tyler Scott was also put in the right spot away from trouble. And as good as the throw was, it was an even better catch by the young receiver.Still thinking 'bout this @ty_simpson06 strike to @TheTylerScott 🎯📺 @CBSLosAngeles | 📲 https://t.co/R5m5kJYp8Kpic.twitter.com/LuNyxTNp1x— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) August 15, 2026Simpson continued to look comfortable on his third drive, once again targeting Klare often. It was a two-minute drill after the Rams got the ball back with just over 30 seconds left in the half, but he orchestrated the offense well in that situation. He completed a nice throw to Klare on the right side for 11 yards, followed by a quick completion to Xavier Smith that allowed him to get out of bounds and stop the clock. With 1 second left, the Rams tried a Hail Mary but Simpson was hit before he could give it a real chance down the field.That final pass of the first half snapped a streak of eight straight completions.In the second half, Simpson kept taking what the defense gave him, throwing easy out routes and checkdowns to keep the ball moving in the right direction. He was forced to scramble at the end of the third quarter after a defender dove at his feet, doing a nice job of avoiding the rush and finding Dean Connors on the run for 5 yards on third-and-long.Made something out of nothing… pic.twitter.com/7JEoAoCLKZ— Allen Sales (@AllenSales) August 15, 2026In the fourth quarter, Simpson threw his first (unofficial) touchdown pass in the NFL, a 9-yard screen to Dean Connors, who eluded a couple of defenders on his way to the end zone.Simpson didn't have to do much on the play, but he did a nice job moving the defense to the left before coming back to Connors in the flat..@RamsNFL rookie RB Dean Connors sheds tackles to get six.LARvsKC on @NFLnetworkStream on @NFLPluspic.twitter.com/9ComLfN8D2— NFL (@NFL) August 15, 2026On the next drive, Simpson looked better than he had all game – and he was playing well before then, too. He threw a strike to Brennan Presley over the middle after a play-action fake, picking up 23 yards on the completion. The ball was a little bit low, but Presley brought it in with a nice catch while going to the ground.Simpson looked comfortable faking the handoff, quickly getting his eyes back downfield to the receivers.Ty Simpson zips it to Brennan Presley for a 23-yard pick up.LARvsKC on @NFLnetworkStream on @NFLPluspic.twitter.com/NomnCI9rqT— NFL (@NFL) August 15, 2026A few plays later, operating out of the gun, Simpson had plenty of time in the pocket thanks to good blocking up front, and he took advantage. He zipped a bullet to CJ Daniels on a crosser, putting the ball in a spot where only his receiver could make a play. Daniels had been pretty quiet up to that point, but it was a strong catch by the rookie with a defender in his pocket.Ty zips one to CJ!📺 @CBSLosAngeles | 📲 https://t.co/R5m5kJYWYipic.twitter.com/H9uY1ITr2I— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) August 15, 2026To cap off the drive, Simpson hit Connors once again for a touchdown, this time on an angle route by the running back out of the backfield. Simpson put it right on the running back as he was coming out of his break, and though it was bobbled initially, Connors held on for six.Ty Simpson throws a dart to Dean Connors for the touchdown.LARvsKC on @NFLnetworkStream on @NFLPluspic.twitter.com/8hOWM5GIRT— NFL (@NFL) August 15, 2026After running out the clock on the Rams' final possession, Simpson ended the afternoon with a near-perfect stat line: 21-for-25, 190 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions. He didn't come close to turning the ball over, only throwing four incompletions on the day.It went about as well as it possibly could have, and though both the Rams offense and Chiefs defense were basic and vanilla, it's hard not to be encouraged by what we saw from the rookie. After taking short, quick throws initially, he began to go through his progressions and push the ball down the field more as the game went on.At the very least, he temporarily silenced the doubters who thought he was a reach at No. 13 overall.This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: How did Rams rookie Ty Simpson play in his debut vs. Chiefs?

This evening, pound-for-pound No 1 Islam Makhachev defends his welterweight title against Ian Machado Garry in the main event of UFC 330.The bout marks Makhachev’s first defence of the belt, which he won by dominating and outpointing Jack Della Maddalena in November, after giving up the lightweight belt following a record-breaking four successful defences.• FOLLOW LIVE: Garry challenges Makhachev in intriguing UFC 330 main eventAnd the Russian, 34, faces an intriguing test against the divisive Machado Garry, 28, who enters the fight with just one professional loss to his name. UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev (Getty)The Irishman bounced back from that narrow points defeat by Shavkat Rakhmonov with wins over ex-champ Belal Muhammad and Carlos Prates, and he enters UFC 330 full of confidence.The co-main event pits women’s strawweight champion Mackenzie Dern against Gillian Robertson, as Dern defends the belt for the first time, having been upgraded from interim-title holder. In October, during Zhilei Zhang’s reign atop the division, Dern outpointed Virna Jandiroba to win the interim strap, before Zhang moved up in weight and gave up her title. Here’s all you need to know:When is UFC 330?UFC 330 will take place on Saturday 15 August at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The early prelims will begin at 10pm BST (2pm PT / 4pm CT / 5pm ET), followed by the regular prelims at 12am BST on Sunday (4pm PT / 6pm CT / 7pm ET on Saturday); the main card will start at 2am BST on Sunday (6pm PT / 8pm CT / 9pm ET on Saturday). How can I watch it?In the UK, the card will air live on TNT Sports and is also accessible via HBO Max, EE TV, Virgin Media, Amazon Prime Video, and Sky Sports. In the US, Paramount+ will stream the action, with CBS showing a segment of the card.OddsMakhachev – 3/10Machado Garry – 5/2Via Betway. Get all the latest UFC betting sites’ offers. The Independent vets betting sites for usability, security and responsible gambling tools. You can claim free bets here to use across a range of sports. Please read the terms.Fight card in fullSubject to change; ‘C’ denotes champion:UFC women’s strawweight champion Mackenzie Dern (Getty)Main cardIslam Makhachev (C) vs Ian Machado Garry (welterweight title)Mackenzie Dern (C) vs Gillian Robertson (women’s strawweight title)Jalin Turner vs Kaue Fernandes (lightweight) Mansur Abdul-Malik vs Dustin Stoltzfus (middleweight)Edson Barboza vs Esteban Ribovics (lightweight)PrelimsChidi Njokuani vs Joel Alvarez (welterweight)Charles Johnson vs Eduardo Chapolin (130lb catchweight)Donte Johnson vs Eric McConico (middleweight)Vicente Luque vs Tresean Gore (middleweight)Early prelimsRafael Tobias vs Lucas Fernando (light-heavyweight)Neil Magny vs Ramiz Brahimaj (welterweight)Jeremiah Wells vs Myktybek Orolbai (welterweight)

The Jacksonville Jaguars have wrapped up their first preseason game of 2026, defeating the New Orleans Saints on the road by a score of 24 to 20. With the dust now having settled, let's take stock of where this team stands, with a look at those who are on the rise and those who dropped.Stock up: RB J'Mari TaylorThe yards often didn't come easy, but Taylor found ways to steadily churn out positive gains. He played key roles in the Jaguars moving the ball down the field during their two second-half scoring drives. He finished the game with 78 yards on 22 carries with a touchdown.Stock down: Injuries to the offensive lineThis is a position group already dealing with numerous injuries, and then Chuma Edoga exited the game on the first play. Also sidelined coming into this game were Walker Little and Patrick Mekari. Cole Van Lanen remains on the PUP list. Down Edoga and with the backups in, the offensive line unit took its lumps in this game.Stock up: Jaguars' defensive end rotationComing into the training camp, the depth behind Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker was a big question mark, but the rotational members of this unit have performed well this summer, and that continued in Saturday's game. Danny Striggow had three tackles, half a sack, and a quarterback hit. BJ Green had a fumble recovery, with help from Wesley Williams on that play. Williams also showcased that well-rounded skill set that the coaches have talked about.Stock down: CB Corey BallentineSaints' quarterback Zach Wilson averaged 9.1 yards per attempt on 16 passes, generating several explosive plays through the air, at least two of which had Ballentine as the nearest defender. Stock up: LB Yasir AbdullahWhen in the game, Abdullah seemed to be all over the field. He finished with two tackles, including one for a loss, a sack, and a quarterback hit. He also helped create the disruption that led to the fumble by Spencer Rattler.Stock up: The fight in Liam Coen's teamIt's the preseason -- wins and losses don't matter. Also, the starters did not play in this contest either. That said, Coen wants to build a resilient team that fights to the end, and this Jaguars' roster did that, scoring 18 straight points in the second half to win the game.This article originally appeared on Jaguars Wire: Jaguars training camp stock report after first preseason game v. Saints

The Seattle Seahawks are set to kick off their preseason opener at 5 p.m. PST against the Dallas Cowboys at Lumen Field. Here are four bold predictions surrounding main narratives in this game, which will give us the first taste of game action as defending champions.First, I believe six to seven healthy running backs- George Holani, Jadarian Price, Emanuel Wilson, Velus Jones Jr., Jacardia Wright, TJ Harden, and Justin Jones- to get carries. We’ll see them all side-by-side and make a fair evaluation on the eye test, then discuss after the game in takeaways and Studs & Duds. Maybe we’ll even get a feel for the baseline RB pecking order at the current moment.Second, don’t sleep on Dallas’ depth along both the offensive and defensive line. They’ve bolstered their formidable new interior duo of Kenny Clark and Quinnen Williams with a plethora of edge pieces, from Otito Ogbonnia and Rashan Gary to Donovan Ezeraiku and Dee Winters, plus backups like Jaishawn Barham and rookie LT Overton out of Alabama that should play a lot tonight. This will be a much better measuring stick for the Seahawks’ developmental pieces than the Raiders were last year. That could mean Mason Richman, Bryce Cabeldue and the rest of the backup offensive line need to step up and prove their level in the second half.Ironically, Brian Schottenheimer returns to Seattle with low stakes, but his offense still struggles to move the chains more than it should. Expect him to try to go deep and to the boundary and get his young skill players involved, but with the Seahawks positively violent mentality which was featured on the most recent Hard Knocks, screens and out routes will be no match- regardless of the level of depth the game calls for.Finally, Brian Fleury’s offense will reveal its foundation to the world, or at least, whoever’s watching this game. I don’t know how much influence he’ll bring from Kyle Shanahan or the San Francisco 49ers offense, or if it’ll be productive. A first-time offensive play caller is as good an opportunity for surprise as any, so I expect this to be the talking point of the night when all is said and done. Follow us here during the game for breakdowns of exactly what Fleury and Mike Macdonald are cooking up, and check back postgame for takeaways, Studs & Duds, and all your other Seahawks needs!This article originally appeared on Seahawks Wire: Four Bold Predictions For Seahawks’ Preseason Opener vs. Cowboys

Scottie Scheffler chips onto the second green during the third round of the St. Jude Championship golf tournament Saturday, Aug. 15, 2026, in Memphis, Tenn. (AP Photo/George Walker IV)2026-08-15T23:19:22Z MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — Scottie Scheffler settled in after a rough start Saturday for a 2-under 68, giving him a two-shot lead over Sam Burns and Sungjae Im in the FedEx St. Jude Championship going into a final round where so much is at stake from the top to the bottom of the leaderboard.Scheffler is trying to break a streak of five runner-up finishes and five other top 4s since his lone victory this year in his first tournament of 2026. He was at 13-under 197 and will be in the final group with Burns, his closest friend in golf, who got back into the mix with a 62. His year has been marked by close calls in the U.S. Open and British Open, but Burns has no victories to show for it. This will be the first time they are paired together in the final group.“It’s always a little weird just because I want him to have success so much and I think he wants the same for me,” Scheffler said. “Tomorrow we’ll go out there and play our game and see where things finish up at the end of the day. It will be competition like normal. “It will be fun being out there with your friend but it’s also a bit weird at the same time.”And it’s not just the two of them. Im shot 67 and was tied with Burns at 11-under 199. The next closest to Scheffler was FedEx Cup champion Tommy Fleetwood (68) and Jake Knapp (67), both five shots behind. Jordan Spieth took another step back and gave himself another Sunday at the TPC Southwind filled with high stress. Spieth is at No. 54 in the FedEx Cup, and only the top 50 advance to the BMW Championship next week in the FedEx Cup playoffs.The top 50 is the magic number this week because those players are assured to getting into all the $20 million signature events next year. Spieth, who opened with a 65, didn’t make a birdie until the 11th hole in his round of 72 that dropped him from a tie for fifth to a tie for 19th, which is projected to leave him out of the top 50. Read More He’s not alone. Brian Harman came in at No. 65 and shot 69. He was in a tie for sixth, needing to move up a few spots to advance. “That signature series, it’s where you want to be,” Harman said. “It’s where the best golf is played. I’d love to have a chance.”He at least is in all the majors next year from his 2023 British Open victory at Hoylake.Going into the final day, Im is the only player projected to move into the top 50 — he started at No. 53 and held his own in the final group Saturday with Scheffler.“I just want to focus on each shot,” Im said. “Every shot matters.” Scheffler only hit one green in regulation through the opening five holes. He was in the right rough on the par-5 third and had a clean enough lie to try to reach the green or at least advance it close. But it hit a tree right above him and dropped straight down. He pulled his short iron out of mangled rough to the side of a bunker and still had 111 yards. He hit that to 12 feet and made the par putt.He bogeyed the next from behind the green, didn’t get a birdie until the par-3 eighth and then ran off consecutive birdies early on the back nine that restored his lead. He also made a 12-foot par save on the 15th hole.“Any time you’re holing those 10- to 15-footers, it’s really nice to keep the round going,” Scheffler said. “I holed a few of those today. It was definitely important to keep the momentum in the round.” The heat index topped 100 degrees, and towels soaked in ice water were available on every tee. Keith Mitchell looked utterly exhausted walking out of scoring, from the heat and from the stress of projections that keep him right at No. 49 with one round remaining.He was tied for 22nd, along with Maverick McNealy, who was projected at No. 50. Burns is thinking only about winning, and that starts with making up a two-shot deficit on the No. 1 player in the world. The only other time they’ve played together on a Sunday was the 2021 Tour Championship — both out of contention — though Burns did beat Scheffler with a long birdie putt in a playoff at Colonial in 2022.“Scottie is obviously playing great, as he always does. He’s not going to lay down,” Burns said. “He’s going to play great tomorrow. So you’re going to have to go out there and put a really good round together and see if you can catch him.”___See AP’s full golf coverage here DOUG FERGUSON Ferguson has been The AP’s golf writer since 1998. He is a recipient of the PGA Lifetime Achievement in Journalism award. twitter mailto

Islam Makhachev (170) vs. Ian Garry (170)Mackenzie Dern (115) vs. Gillian Robertson (115)Kaue Fernandes (156) vs. Jalin Turner (156)Mansur Abdul-Malik (186) vs. Dustin Stoltzfus (185)Edson Barboza (156) vs. Esteban Ribovics (156)Joel Alvarez (171) vs. Chidi Njokuani (171)Charles Johnson (129.5) vs. Eduardo Henrique (129.5)Donte Johnson (184.5) vs. Eric McConico (186)Tresean Gore (186) vs. Vicente Luque (186)Lucas Fernando (205) vs. Rafael Tobias (204)Ramiz Brahimaj (170) vs. Neil Magny (171)Myktybek Orolbai (170.5) vs. Jeremiah Wells (171) Sherdog's live UFC 330 “Makhachev vs. Garry” coverage will begin Saturday at 5:30 p.m. ET.Myktybek Orolbai (170.5) vs. Jeremiah Wells (171)Round 1 Welterweights light the fuse for UFC 330 at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia, where Orolbai (16-2-1, 5-1 UFC) squares off with Wells (13-4-1, 5-2 UFC) at 170 pounds. Blake Grice adjudicates matters. No glove touch in the opener. Wells whiffs on an overhand right. The heavily favored Orolbai stalks from the center and counters an attempted high kick with a left hook. Wells unloads with a multi-punch volley, catches Orolbai off-guard and presses him into the fence. They separate. Lots of feints from Orolbai. Body kick from Wells. Orolbai catches it and procures a takedown, setting up in half guard. He works from top position, though Wells refuses to cooperate. Orolbai stands, maneuvers behind the American and briefly climbs to full mount. Wells escapes and clings to a single-leg. Orolbai floats back to half guard, then sneaks behind his opponent again. Wells somersaults but cannot break free and eats a series of left hands to the side of the head. Ninety seconds to go in the round. More ground-and-pound from Orolbai, who has seized control after a shaky start. He frees his left hand and plasters Wells with another burst of left hands. Orolbai maintains control and continues to build his lead, landing knees to the buttocks. He lands another sweeping left as the round concludes. Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Orolbai Tudor Leonte scores the round: 10-9 Orolbai Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 OrolbaiRound 2 Back at it for the middle stanza. Slow start through 30 seconds. Orolbai throws a crescent kick, then resets. He steps into an overhand right, backs off under return fire and throws another overhand. Orolbai ducks in on a single-leg and secures a takedown. Wells gets to his feet but pays the price, eating several punches. Another takedown for Orolbai, who lands in half guard and frames a kimura. He moves to side control, still clinging to the shoulder lock. Wells stays safe initially and forces his opponent to bail on the submission. Orolbai lands knees to the body. Wells scrambles to his feet and braces himself against the fence. Orolbai forces him to take a knee at the base of the cage and scores with knees to the backside. Wells stands again. Orolbai sneaks behind him with one hook laced and drags the American to the mat. He sets his second hook. Wells reverses into top position. Orolbai immediately gets to his feet. They return to the center of the cage with 20 seconds on the clock. Wells visibly fatigued as the round ends. Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Orolbai Tudor Leonte scores the round: 10-9 Orolbai Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 OrolbaiRound 3 Wells needs a finish. Orolbai operates from the center of the cage and connects with a front kick to the body. Wells coming up short on his punches. He stings Orolbai with a right hook, catches him ducking on a takedown and threatens with a ninja choke. Wells drags him to the mat, and Orolbai goes limp. Unbelievable.The Official Result Jeremiah Wells def. Myktybek Orolbai—Technical Submission (Ninja Choke) 1:24 R3Ramiz Brahimaj (170) vs. Neil Magny (171)Round 1 Attention at UFC 330 stays on the welterweight division, as Brahimaj (13-6, 5-4 UFC) toes the line against Magny (31-14, 24-13 UFC) at 170 pounds. Jason Herzog serves as the third man in the cage. No glove touch. Brahimaj opens with a low leg kick. Magny answers with one of his own. Brahimaj follows two stiff jabs with an overhand right and a leg kick. He controls the majority of the round in the clinch and through securing a takedown. Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Brahimaj Tudor Leonte scores the round: 10-9 Brahimaj Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 BrahimajRound 2 Brahimaj fights through fatigue and secures a takedown inside the first 90 seconds, then goes to work in full guard. He passes to half guard but fails to capitalize. Brahimaj postures and punches. Magny flirts with a foot lock, then sweeps from the bottom. He sets up in half guard and lets the punches go. Brahimaj fading a bit here. He stands. Magny maneuvers behind him and cracks him with a right hand. Brahimaj takes a knee, shells up and eats a volley of left hands. Herzog warns him to defends himself, then elects to intervene. Another stirring comeback from the ageless Magny.The Official Result Neil Magny def. Ramiz Brahimaj—TKO (Punches) 3:20 R2Lucas Fernando (205) vs. Rafael Tobias (204)Round 1 Light heavyweights are next to the UFC 330 stage, as Fernando (13-3, 0-0 UFC) sets his sights on Tobias (14-2, 0-1 UFC) at 205 pounds. Keith Peterson administers the law and order. They greet each other with a glove touch. Tobias fires an overhand right. Fernando answers with a body kick, resets and connects with a sharp one-two. Front kick to the body from Fernando followed by another one-two. The former two-division LFA champion whiffs on a wheel kick, then flurries along the fence. Tobias not throwing much. Hard leg kick from Fernando. He sneaks in a short left hook, then turns to his jab. Two minutes down. Fernando lands hooks from both hands and follows them with a jab. One-two from Fernando. Tobias answers with a jab, then clinches. He lands knees to the inner thigh. Fernando turns him into the fence and fires a knee and a left hook to the body. He barely misses on a question mark kick. Crushing body kick from Fernando. He backs it up with a leg kick. Tobias catches a front kick and trips his Brazilian compatriot to the floor. Fernando minimizes damages and pushes his opponent way in the waning seconds. Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Fernando Tudor Leonte scores the round: 10-9 Fernando Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 FernandoRound 2 Tobias has some work to do, as the second round gets underway. Fernando pokes with his jab and lands to vicious low kicks, perhaps paying homage to his mentor Pedro Rizzo. He sits down Tobias with a penetrating jab and allows him to stand. Fernando backs him to the fence and cuts loose with punches. Tobias clinches. Fernando lands a leg kick, follows it with a front kick to the body and unloads with a one-two. More jabs from Fernando and another low kick. Action slows. Fernando goes back to his jab and uncorks a one-two. Tobias answers with a jab to the body. Fernando lands a glancing head kick. An inch lower, and this one would have been over. Another leg kick from Fernando. Tobias becoming more and more stationary. Fernando pairs a knee to the body with an overhand right. One minute to go. Fernando connects with hooks from both hands before the round concludes. Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Fernando Tudor Leonte scores the round: 10-9 Fernando Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 FernandoRound 3 Looks somewhat hopeless for Tobias here. Peterson beckons them forward. Leg kick from Fernando followed by a sweeping left hook and a one-two. More jabs from Fernando, who has looked razor sharp. Fernando lands a violent stepping knee to the body. After a delayed reaction Tobias doubles over, retreats to the canvas and eats a few fight-ending elbows.The Official Result Lucas Fernando def. Rafael Tobias—TKO (Knee to the Body and Elbows) 1:10 R3Tresean Gore (186) vs. Vicente Luque (186)Round 1 Middleweights now step into the UFC 330 spotlight, as Gore (6-4, 3-4 UFC) confronts Luque (24-12-1, 17-8 UFC) at 185 pounds. Herb Dean draws the officiating assignment. Away they go. Gore probes with his jab, as his opponent circles on the outside. Luque lands a heavy leg kick. Gore answers with two of his own. They exchange jabs. Luque connects with a low kick, then doubles up on left hands upstairs. More jabs from the Brazilian. Gore scores with a leg kick. Luque continues to target the lower extremities with kicks. Gore answers. Luque blocks a high kick from the American. Gore sneaks in a right hand and follows it with a jab. Halfway home in the first round. Gore scores with a right hand over the top. Luque shoots a pair of hooks to the body. They clinch in the center. Gore hammers away with punches. Another right hand over the top from Gore. He lands another again and wobbles Luque. Gore swarms with punches. Luque lands a close-range elbow. They trade jabs. Leg kick from Luque, who seems to have steadied himself with 30 seconds to go. Luque steps into a left hook but eats a jab on the return. He lands a right over the top before Luque bashes him with a flying knee to the face to close the round. Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Gore Tudor Leonte scores the round: 10-9 Gore Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 GoreRound 2 They meet in the middle to start the second round. Gore sticks him with an overhand right. Luque answers with a low kick. Luque backs up the American with two left hooks and swarms. Gore dives on an ill-advised takedown. Luque bites down on the neck and locks in a brabo choke. Gore survives the initial squeeze. Luque bails. Gore stands and takes down the Brazilian, then pummels him with punches. He flirts with a rear-naked choke and powers until full mount. Midway through the round. Gore pauses to rest in top position. He drops a few elbows and a hammerfist. More punches for Gore, who mounts a second time before settling back into half guard. Gore cuts loose with elbows and short punches. Luque trying to hang on with a minute to go. Gore moves to mount again and frames an arm-triangle. Luque escapes. Gore gets back to his ground-and-pound and passes to side control as the round ends. Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Gore Tudor Leonte scores the round: 10-9 Gore Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 GoreRound 3 Luque might be in a two-round hole as they head into the final five minutes. Gore greets him with a left hook. Luque paws with his jab. Gore fires of a head kick. Luque blocks it. One-two from the Brazilian. Gore scores with a low kick, misses on a left hook and connects with a right hand over the top. Luque not doing much to shift momentum. Pace favors Gore, who fakes a level change and plants two jabs into his opponent’s face. Luque sneaks in a left hook to the head and another to the body. Midway through the round. Gore lands an overhand right but fails to back it up with anything meaningful. Neither man moving to well in the latter stages of the match. Luque flurries along the fence. Ninety seconds on the clock. Gore unleashes his jab, the whiffs on an overhand right. Low kick from Gore. Luque lands a left hook to the body. Gore shoots and presses the Brazilian into the fence, then connects with a close-range knee strike. He lands an elbow on the break. They circle in open space, and Gore scores with another overhand right. Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Luque (29-28 Gore) Tudor Leonte scores the round: 10-9 Gore (30-27 Gore) Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 Gore (30-27 Gore)The Official Result Tresean Gore def. Vicente Luque—Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)Donte Johnson (184.5) vs. Eric McConico (186)Round 1 Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: Tudor Leonte scores the round: Scottie Smith scores the round:Round 2 Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: Tudor Leonte scores the round: Scottie Smith scores the round:Round 3 Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: Tudor Leonte scores the round: Scottie Smith scores the round:The Official ResultCharles Johnson (129.5) vs. Eduardo Henrique (129.5)Round 1 Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: Tudor Leonte scores the round: Scottie Smith scores the round:Round 2 Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: Tudor Leonte scores the round: Scottie Smith scores the round:Round 3 Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: Tudor Leonte scores the round: Scottie Smith scores the round:The Official ResultJoel Alvarez (171) vs. Chidi Njokuani (171)Round 1 Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: Tudor Leonte scores the round: Scottie Smith scores the round:Round 2 Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: Tudor Leonte scores the round: Scottie Smith scores the round:Round 3 Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: Tudor Leonte scores the round: Scottie Smith scores the round:The Official ResultEdson Barboza (156) vs. Esteban Ribovics (156)Round 1 Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: Tudor Leonte scores the round: Scottie Smith scores the round:Round 2 Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: Tudor Leonte scores the round: Scottie Smith scores the round:Round 3 Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: Tudor Leonte scores the round: Scottie Smith scores the round:The Official ResultMansur Abdul-Malik (186) vs. Dustin Stoltzfus (185)Round 1 Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: Tudor Leonte scores the round: Scottie Smith scores the round:Round 2 Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: Tudor Leonte scores the round: Scottie Smith scores the round:Round 3 Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: Tudor Leonte scores the round: Scottie Smith scores the round:The Official ResultKaue Fernandes (156) vs. Jalin Turner (156)Round 1 Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: Tudor Leonte scores the round: Scottie Smith scores the round:Round 2 Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: Tudor Leonte scores the round: Scottie Smith scores the round:Round 3 Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: Tudor Leonte scores the round: Scottie Smith scores the round:The Official ResultUFC Women’s Strawweight Title Fight:Mackenzie Dern (115) vs. Gillian Robertson (115)Round 1 Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: Tudor Leonte scores the round: Scottie Smith scores the round:Round 2 Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: Tudor Leonte scores the round: Scottie Smith scores the round:Round 3 Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: Tudor Leonte scores the round: Scottie Smith scores the round:Round 4 Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: Tudor Leonte scores the round: Scottie Smith scores the round:Round 5 Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: Tudor Leonte scores the round: Scottie Smith scores the round:The Official ResultUFC Welterweight Title Fight:Islam Makhachev (170) vs. Ian Garry (170)Round 1 Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: Tudor Leonte scores the round: Scottie Smith scores the round:Round 2 Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: Tudor Leonte scores the round: Scottie Smith scores the round:Round 3 Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: Tudor Leonte scores the round: Scottie Smith scores the round:Round 4 Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: Tudor Leonte scores the round: Scottie Smith scores the round:Round 5 Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: Tudor Leonte scores the round: Scottie Smith scores the round:The Official Result

New Orleans Saints fans were treated to a surprisingly dramatic preseason game, but we'll take it. Seeing guys playing with passion and energy at a time when the final score only matters for bragging rights is always entertaining. It wasn't enough to win the day -- the visiting Jacksonville Jaguars won in the final second, 24-20 -- but we learned a lot about where the Saints might have some talent, plus where they might need some help. Let's dig in by asking and answering four key questions:What went right?What went wrong?And what's the bottom line?So what comes next?What went right?Some individuals deserve a lot of credit, especially on defense. Veteran cornerback Martin Emerson Jr. broke up three of Jacksonville's first 11 passes and looked like an outstanding fit in the coverage scheme New Orleans wants to run. Linebacker Jaylan Ford played with his hair on fire, notching eight tackles, a quarterback hit, and an interception just in one half of football. And rookie free agent defensive end Michael Heldman made a good case for more snaps at practice after being stuck on the third team for two weeks; he racked up six tackles in total, including two sacks, three tackles for loss, and three quarterback hits. Slot cornerback Jayden Price popped off with a pass breakup and an interception, too.Offensively, Audric Estime started strong with a 9-yard touchdown run and a very respectable 5.6 yards per carry. Take out that scoring run and he still had 4.8 yards per carry. You just have to hope he's healthy after taking a big shot to his lower leg on an ill-advised Spencer Rattler checkdown. Wide receivers who were starting to be overlooked like Bub Means (four catches for 77 yards) and Jalen Moreno-Cropper (three for 49) stepped up. Rookie sixth-round pick Barion Brown caught each of his four targets for 53 yards.What went wrong?Rattler looked overwhelmed. Sure, he was running the second-team offense, but he's been working with these guys every day at training camp. He was struggling with pressure early and often as backup center Torricelli Simpkins III was beaten by the Jags' defensive interior. But he had a hard time getting the offense going downfield, too, averaging just 3.8 yards per attempt. He's regressed after showing some encouraging development at practice.Defensively, sure, it's the preseason. Most of the players on the field in the second half aren't going to make the cut for the 53-man roster. But giving up 18 points in two quarters to another team's reserves, who are in the same situation, is far from ideal. At the same time you want to see your offense put some points on the board and hold onto their 14-point lead.But you can't talk about what went wrong without highlighting the special teams. The Saints had too many mistakes in this phase. Not just penalties, but bad decisions in situations like when Dalys Beanum cost the team time and field position by picking up a rolling punt before it reached deeper into Jaguars territory. Four of the team's eight accepted penalties and 37 of their 66 penalty yards came on special teams. Veteran punter Ryan Wright rebounded from it but he can't be shanking 15-yard punts in the first place.And what's the bottom line?For the most part, the players who are safe bets to make the 53-man roster later this month did well: defenders like Ford and Emerson. Players on the bubble helped themselves like Price, Heldman, and if he's not too badly injured, Estime. But there are probably a dozen roster spots still up for grabs and it's uncertain if the Saints have the right guys on the team right now to fill them. Don't be shocked if we see some more late-summer trades like we did last year, when the Saints dealt for backup center Luke Fortner and underused wide receiver Devaughn Vele.So what comes next?The Saints are set for a weeklong trip to California, where they'll scrimmage with both the Los Angeles Rams (privately, in Carson) and Dallas Cowboys (in Oxnard, open to the public) before a preseason game with the Rams at SoFi Stadium. These will be great opportunities to evaluate their talent against some of the deepest rosters in the NFC. We're waiting to see which players nicked up with injuries are making the flight out west and who may need more time to heal up before they can get back on the field.This article originally appeared on Saints Wire: Instant analysis from Saints' preseason loss vs. Jaguars

Katarina Johnson-Thompson says she still has the hunger to compete for major honours after she managed to complete the heptathlon at the European Athletics Championships following a difficult season.The two-time world champion wore a broad smile on her face as she crossed the finish line of the concluding 800m event to warm cheers from her home support in Birmingham.Johnson-Thompson said at the end of the first day of competition on Friday that she was "just happy to be here" following an injury-hit year during which she has barely competed.The 33-year-old Olympic silver medallist placed 21st out of the 21 athletes to complete the seven events on Saturday, as British team-mate Jade O'Dowda finished 13th and Ireland's Kate O'Connor claimed gold."I am thinking of the future. I have always said I want to be competitive. If I'm not competitive, I will start asking questions," Johnson-Thompson told BBC Sport."I've still got sand behind my nails, my body is still warm. I cannot think about the future too much. I want to be in the moment. "Of course, I don't want to be here just to be a participant. The hunger is still there, and I love this event so much."Hunt wins third gold as Asher-Smith makes historyFresh rivals & forced to settle for silver - but Hodgkinson up for fightEuropean Championships medal table & GB medallistsJohnson-Thompson achieved her sixth global podium with bronze at last year's World Championships - and her third in as many years as she returned to the pinnacle of the sport following a career-threatening Achilles rupture.But, prior to these championships, she had competed just once since - in the shot put at an event in Loughborough in May - and withdrew from last month's Commonwealth Games to ensure she could compete here.Having competed at Alexander Stadium as a junior, Johnson-Thompson was determined to make the start line and soak in the adoration of the home crowd.While she has never won a European title, there are further opportunities for global honours on the horizon, with a World Championships and Olympic Games in the next two years."It is obviously far from my best. Not the competition I would have wanted, but in a way it is," Johnson-Thompson said."It was important to me that I finished. I wanted to do it for [my team] as we worked so hard to be here."After the initial shock of the hurdles and the 200m, I definitely came back with a different mindset today to soak it all in. "I have done so many championships now. Since 2012 I have only ever missed one. "It is important to me, I enjoy the experience now more than ever."

When the Tennessee Titans took the practice field on Aug. 15 just a shade before 2:30 p.m., the AccuWeather "RealFeel" was 110 degrees and the heat index was a much-milder 104 in Nashville. So let's start off Titans observations by highlighting the real heroes of the day: the hydration squad.By The Tennessean's count, the Titans had at least a dozen water runners on the field at all times. After practice, one of the staffers estimated for The Tennessean that they went through the equivalent of 20-30 bags of ice to make everything work. This is part of an assembly-line process wherein the water runners bring caddies of four-to-six squeeze-top water bottles over to a golf cart with three multi-gallon coolers filled with ice water and a big green ladle. Some of the squeeze bottles are marked off with tape or elastic wristbands to signify they're the ones to be spiked with electrolyte powders and packets from companies like LMNT (specifically the raspberry flavor) and DripDrop. The cart is also stocked with dozens of fresh towels and mini bottles of Gatorade on ice to be used as needed.During the 10 minutes of the opening team period alone, staffers refilled 29 water bottles.The all-hands-on-deck mentality was evident. One staffer joking asked media in the middle of practice to hop over the ropes and help "water the players." The Titans even took a 10-minute halftime in practice so players could go into the cold room and cool off."You acclimate yourself to this weather," coach Robert Saleh said. "The first couple of weeks of September you don't know what the heck you're going to get. It could be 93 degrees with 90% humidity or it could be a cool fall day in the upper Midwest. You just don't know."Tennessee Titans practice observations: What did Cam Ward accomplish coming off preseason struggles?Throughout the week in Santa Clara, California, quarterback Cam Ward and the Titans' first-team offense built a trend out of thriving on timing-based rhythm plays but struggling when trying to push the ball downfield in a joint practice and preseason opener against the San Francisco 49ers. Ward busted that trend early on Aug. 15.The Titans lined up for a four-minute drill, needing to go roughly 70 yards for the offense to win the session. Ward found 20 yards or so on the first play of the series, connecting with receiver Elic Ayomanor on a play-action rollout. On the next play, Ayomanor streaked down the sideline past the cover, getting behind cornerback Alontae Taylor, and Ward found him on a slightly-underthrown heave for the 50-yard score. On the first play of Ward's next series, he went deep again and found receiver Carnell Tate, then punctuated the series with a dart lasered into receiver Wan'Dale Robinson's chest in the corner of the end zone for a score.Ward was hardly perfect, but this felt like his most prolific day of training camp throwing downfield. It should be noted that the Titans weren't in full pads for this practice, so physicality might've been down a notch. But coming off a 5-for-12 showing in the preseason opener where Ward struggled to create for himself, finding a way to bridge the gap between thriving on timing passes and forging connections deep downfield was a welcome sign.More Titans observationsDefensive linemen John Franklin-Myers and Jackie Marshall were both in uniform after missing last week but didn't participate in team periods. Running back Tony Pollard took a rest day about which Saleh didn't seem concerned.Saleh admitted that rookie guard Fernando Carmona Jr. has seized the "inside track" in the competition for the starting role at right guard, the most decisive he's been about any position competition all summer.Ward's success meant more showcase struggles for the Titans' defensive backs, who caught flak for difficult moments in San Francisco. Speaking to reporters after practice, safety Kevin Winston Jr., explained that one emphasis the Titans have been keen on fixing is point-of-attack coverage, the process of trying to break up passes as the ball is arriving to a receiver. Though these situations can be simulated in individual drills, the only real way to instill these traits comes through scrimmage and game reps, per Winston.The Titans return to practice on Aug. 17. The Seattle Seahawks come to Nashville for a joint practice on Aug. 21.Nick Suss is the Titans beat writer for The Tennessean. Contact Nick at nsuss@gannett.com. Follow Nick on X @nicksuss. Subscribe to the Talkin’ Titans newsletter for updates sent directly to your inbox.This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Nashville felt like 110 degrees. Here's how Titans hydration staff pulled off practice

When the Tennessee Titans took the practice field on Aug. 15 just a shade before 2:30 p.m., the AccuWeather "RealFeel" was 110 degrees and the heat index was a much-milder 104 in Nashville. So let's start off Titans observations by highlighting the real heroes of the day: the hydration squad.By The Tennessean's count, the Titans had at least a dozen water runners on the field at all times. After practice, one of the staffers estimated for The Tennessean that they went through the equivalent of 20-30 bags of ice to make everything work. This is part of an assembly-line process wherein the water runners bring caddies of four-to-six squeeze-top water bottles over to a golf cart with three multi-gallon coolers filled with ice water and a big green ladle. Some of the squeeze bottles are marked off with tape or elastic wristbands to signify they're the ones to be spiked with electrolyte powders and packets from companies like LMNT (specifically the raspberry flavor) and DripDrop. The cart is also stocked with dozens of fresh towels and mini bottles of Gatorade on ice to be used as needed.During the 10 minutes of the opening team period alone, staffers refilled 29 water bottles.The all-hands-on-deck mentality was evident. One staffer joking asked media in the middle of practice to hop over the ropes and help "water the players." The Titans even took a 10-minute halftime in practice so players could go into the cold room and cool off."You acclimate yourself to this weather," coach Robert Saleh said. "The first couple of weeks of September you don't know what the heck you're going to get. It could be 93 degrees with 90% humidity or it could be a cool fall day in the upper Midwest. You just don't know."Tennessee Titans practice observations: What did Cam Ward accomplish coming off preseason struggles?Throughout the week in Santa Clara, California, quarterback Cam Ward and the Titans' first-team offense built a trend out of thriving on timing-based rhythm plays but struggling when trying to push the ball downfield in a joint practice and preseason opener against the San Francisco 49ers. Ward busted that trend early on Aug. 15.The Titans lined up for a four-minute drill, needing to go roughly 70 yards for the offense to win the session. Ward found 20 yards or so on the first play of the series, connecting with receiver Elic Ayomanor on a play-action rollout. On the next play, Ayomanor streaked down the sideline past the cover, getting behind cornerback Alontae Taylor, and Ward found him on a slightly-underthrown heave for the 50-yard score. On the first play of Ward's next series, he went deep again and found receiver Carnell Tate, then punctuated the series with a dart lasered into receiver Wan'Dale Robinson's chest in the corner of the end zone for a score.Ward was hardly perfect, but this felt like his most prolific day of training camp throwing downfield. It should be noted that the Titans weren't in full pads for this practice, so physicality might've been down a notch. But coming off a 5-for-12 showing in the preseason opener where Ward struggled to create for himself, finding a way to bridge the gap between thriving on timing passes and forging connections deep downfield was a welcome sign.More Titans observationsDefensive linemen John Franklin-Myers and Jackie Marshall were both in uniform after missing last week but didn't participate in team periods. Running back Tony Pollard took a rest day about which Saleh didn't seem concerned.Saleh admitted that rookie guard Fernando Carmona Jr. has seized the "inside track" in the competition for the starting role at right guard, the most decisive he's been about any position competition all summer.Ward's success meant more showcase struggles for the Titans' defensive backs, who caught flak for difficult moments in San Francisco. Speaking to reporters after practice, safety Kevin Winston Jr., explained that one emphasis the Titans have been keen on fixing is point-of-attack coverage, the process of trying to break up passes as the ball is arriving to a receiver. Though these situations can be simulated in individual drills, the only real way to instill these traits comes through scrimmage and game reps, per Winston.The Titans return to practice on Aug. 17. The Seattle Seahawks come to Nashville for a joint practice on Aug. 21.Nick Suss is the Titans beat writer for The Tennessean. Contact Nick at nsuss@gannett.com. Follow Nick on X @nicksuss. Subscribe to the Talkin’ Titans newsletter for updates sent directly to your inbox.This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Nashville felt like 110 degrees. Here's how Titans hydration staff pulled off practice

Deshaun Watson saw his first on-field NFL action since Oct. 20, 2024, when the Cleveland Browns traveled to Soldier Field to face the Chicago Bears in Week 1 of the 2026 NFL preseason.Browns coach Todd Monken came away from his team's 34-10 loss impressed by what he had seen from the 30-year-old quarterback."It was awesome," Monken said when asked about Watson's performance during his postgame news conference. "It was so cool to watch him play. I mean, I get all of the frustration by fans, himself but for him to come back and work like he did is an unbelievable credit to him.""He was having fun today, and that is so cool," Monken added. "And I thought he functioned at a high level. Certainly, we don't wanna be taking timeouts. We sure as heck can't take delay of games, but it was fun watching him play and watching us put the next step forward and see where we're at."NATE DAVIS: Browns should just give Shedeur Sanders the QB1 job – now | OpinionMonken further outlined that his goal with Watson was to "get his feet wet a little bit" and see whether the quarterback could quickly regain his confidence and enjoyment of the game in his return to the field."What I wanted to see was how comfortable he was leading up to the game, how comfortable he was in the huddle," Monken said."Monken felt Watson accomplished that goal as the veteran quarterback completed 11 of 15 passes for 126 yards while playing the entire first half.Though Monken was pleased with Watson's performance, the first-year coach made it clear he will not be altering his plans for Cleveland's quarterback competition. "I'm not ready to say it yet," Monken said when asked about the quarterback competition. "The plan was always to get through the Bills game, switch up who is gonna start, who is gonna play in the second half and then we'll go from there."As such, Shedeur Sanders will be afford an opportunity to start that preseason Week 2 game against the Buffalo Bills. He and Watson will split the first-team reps at joint practices ahead of that contest, with Monken noting that will also be an important part of Cleveland's quarterback competition.While Monken noted his disdain for the turnovers his quarterbacks committed, he ultimately came away from the first preseason contest encouraged by what he had seen."I was really pleased with our quarterback play. It's not gonna feel like that. Turn it over three times, that's never gonna be ideal. But, to me, it felt to me like we are gonna be able to throw the football [and] be effective in that."This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Todd Monken praises 'awesome' Deshaun Watson, gives update on Browns QB battle

WESTFIELD – The Colts held a five-player tryout on Saturday, taking a look at an undrafted free agent rookie quarterback, three veteran wide receivers and an undrafted free agent cornerback.The quarterback in question, Iowa grad Mark Gronowski, played a single season of Power Five football at Iowa in 2025 after winning a pair of FCS Division I national championships in 2022 and 2023 with South Dakota State. Gronowski spent four seasons with the Jackrabbits (including one red shirt campaign) and finished with a 49-6 record – tying the all-time FCS mark for wins by a quarterback. After his 9-4 campaign in Iowa City in 2025, Gronowski’s 58 all-time victories make him the winningest quarterback in NCAA history at any level.The dual-threat quarterback logged 12,049 passing yards and 103 scores through the air to go with 2,312 rushing yards on 515 carries and 53 more touchdowns. In his lone season with the Hawkeyes, Gronowski finished 166-for-262 (63.4%) with 10 passing touchdowns and seven interceptions. He also rushed for 545 yards on 130 attempts and logged 16 more scores.The Miami Dolphins signed Gronowski soon after the end of the NFL Draft in April, but he was cut just over a week ago from Dolphins training camp. The Colts already have four quarterbacks in training camp – having most recently signed veteran Easton Stick for the No. 4 slot during OTAs as Anthony Richardson Sr. and Riley Leonard compete for the backup job behind starter Daniel Jones.The Colts also took a look at three journeyman receivers, the most veteran among them Josh Reynolds, who the Rams selected in the fourth round in 2017. In nine NFL seasons, Reynolds has played for six different teams – most recently the Jets, where he appeared in five games (with three starts) last fall, grabbing 11 catches for 101 yards before he was placed on injured reserve for the rest of the season with a hip injury. He appeared in nine games with the Broncos and Jaguars in 2024, finishing with 13 catches for 194 yards and a score. Reynolds started all 17 games in 2023 with the Lions, where he recorded 40 catches for 608 yards and five touchdowns.The other two receivers who landed tryouts Saturday – Tre’Quan Smith and Equanimeous St. Brown – did not play in the NFL in 2025. St. Brown, the brother of star Lions receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, has spent five seasons in the league as a former sixth-round pick – most recently a two-game stint in 2024 with the Saints, where he didn’t catch a pass or see a target. St. Brown played in seven games and caught five passes in 2023 for the Bears and appeared in 16 games the previous season in Chicago, making 31 catches for 323 yards and a touchdown. He was a former Notre Dame standout who caught nine touchdowns as a sophomore in 2016.Smith has played six years in the NFL – most recently in 2023, where he saw just one game and didn’t catch a pass while with the Broncos. The former third-round pick spent his first five seasons in the NFL with the Saints, where he caught 131 total passes for 1,764 yards and 18 touchdowns – including five each in his first two seasons.The fifth player to take part in Saturday’s tryout was undrafted free agent cornerback Jaylon Guilbeau, a two-year starter and four-year contributor at Texas who finished his college career with 124 tackles – including eight for a loss – one sack, one interception and 10 passes defended.Joel A. Erickson and Nathan Brown cover the Colts all season. Get more coverage on IndyStarTV and with the Colts Insider newsletter.This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Colts hold tryout for record-setting college quarterback, three receivers

WESTFIELD – The Colts held a five-player tryout on Saturday, taking a look at an undrafted free agent rookie quarterback, three veteran wide receivers and an undrafted free agent cornerback.The quarterback in question, Iowa grad Mark Gronowski, played a single season of Power Five football at Iowa in 2025 after winning a pair of FCS Division I national championships in 2022 and 2023 with South Dakota State. Gronowski spent four seasons with the Jackrabbits (including one red shirt campaign) and finished with a 49-6 record – tying the all-time FCS mark for wins by a quarterback. After his 9-4 campaign in Iowa City in 2025, Gronowski’s 58 all-time victories make him the winningest quarterback in NCAA history at any level.The dual-threat quarterback logged 12,049 passing yards and 103 scores through the air to go with 2,312 rushing yards on 515 carries and 53 more touchdowns. In his lone season with the Hawkeyes, Gronowski finished 166-for-262 (63.4%) with 10 passing touchdowns and seven interceptions. He also rushed for 545 yards on 130 attempts and logged 16 more scores.The Miami Dolphins signed Gronowski soon after the end of the NFL Draft in April, but he was cut just over a week ago from Dolphins training camp. The Colts already have four quarterbacks in training camp – having most recently signed veteran Easton Stick for the No. 4 slot during OTAs as Anthony Richardson Sr. and Riley Leonard compete for the backup job behind starter Daniel Jones.The Colts also took a look at three journeyman receivers, the most veteran among them Josh Reynolds, who the Rams selected in the fourth round in 2017. In nine NFL seasons, Reynolds has played for six different teams – most recently the Jets, where he appeared in five games (with three starts) last fall, grabbing 11 catches for 101 yards before he was placed on injured reserve for the rest of the season with a hip injury. He appeared in nine games with the Broncos and Jaguars in 2024, finishing with 13 catches for 194 yards and a score. Reynolds started all 17 games in 2023 with the Lions, where he recorded 40 catches for 608 yards and five touchdowns.The other two receivers who landed tryouts Saturday – Tre’Quan Smith and Equanimeous St. Brown – did not play in the NFL in 2025. St. Brown, the brother of star Lions receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, has spent five seasons in the league as a former sixth-round pick – most recently a two-game stint in 2024 with the Saints, where he didn’t catch a pass or see a target. St. Brown played in seven games and caught five passes in 2023 for the Bears and appeared in 16 games the previous season in Chicago, making 31 catches for 323 yards and a touchdown. He was a former Notre Dame standout who caught nine touchdowns as a sophomore in 2016.Smith has played six years in the NFL – most recently in 2023, where he saw just one game and didn’t catch a pass while with the Broncos. The former third-round pick spent his first five seasons in the NFL with the Saints, where he caught 131 total passes for 1,764 yards and 18 touchdowns – including five each in his first two seasons.The fifth player to take part in Saturday’s tryout was undrafted free agent cornerback Jaylon Guilbeau, a two-year starter and four-year contributor at Texas who finished his college career with 124 tackles – including eight for a loss – one sack, one interception and 10 passes defended.Joel A. Erickson and Nathan Brown cover the Colts all season. Get more coverage on IndyStarTV and with the Colts Insider newsletter.This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Colts hold tryout for record-setting college quarterback, three receivers