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CLEVELAND ― Derrick Henry spent two seasons with Todd Monken in Baltimore. The Ravens running back knows the kind of coach the former Baltimore offensive coordinator and current Browns head coach is and, more important, how he carries his emotions on his sleeves.

So Henry isn't buying that Monken doesn't feel something extra about the Oct. 18 game between his former team, the Ravens, and his current one, the Browns, in Cleveland. Not in the least.

“He might not say it in the media, but to the team he definitely talks a lot of trash and lets them know he wants to beat us," Henry told Baltimore area reporters Oct. 15. "I mean, that’s just how it goes. It’s going to be, like I said, a four-quarter battle. He’s got them rolling over there, and we have got to finish off this week right to be prepared for them.”

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Henry's words didn't take long to reach his former offensive coordinator. And, in case Monken didn't get the initial notification about them, he had plenty more to make sure he was covered.

"Talking trash?" Monken said Oct. 16 "I mean, I saw that about 18 people sent me that. Like, I’m not even on social media and you guys send me this s---."

Monken, though, has at least been true to the very first part of his former running back's statement. Every time he's been asked about facing the team that employed him the last three seasons, he's been consistent in how he's talked about the situation.

Sure, it didn't necessarily end great in 2025, either for the Ravens as a team ― losing out on the AFC North title and a playoff berth on a missed last-second field goal in Pittsburgh ― or long-time head coach John Harbaugh, who was fired some 72 hours after that loss.

However, that one bad ending doesn't take away all of the good times Monken had in Baltimore coordinating one of the NFL's most dangerous offenses, at least in 2023-24.

"Like, it’s another game week," Monken said. "It’s a divisional game, and it’s not personal. It’s strictly business. I’ll do the whole 'Godfather' thing, and basically, it’s a divisional game against a really good team that I have a lot of respect for, and for those players. So, yeah, do I want to win? Not any different than any other week. And my message isn’t any different this week than it was the previous five weeks in terms of the things we have to do to be successful."

The three seasons Monken was Baltimore's offensive coordinator included a whole lot of success. The Ravens ranked first with 8,512 rushing yards — 166.9 per game — second in scrimmage yards with 19,860 and third in points per game with 27.9, while finishing third with 70 rushing touchdowns.

Quarterback Lamar Jackson won his second NFL Most Valuable Player award in Monken's first season there, and lost out on the award again in 2024 by a narrow margin to the Buffalo Bills' Josh Allen. Then Henry arrived in 2024 and ran for 3,516 yards and 32 touchdowns while averaging 5.6 yards in his two seasons combined with Monken.

“Oh, it was great, man," Henry said. "We had fun, had a lot of success. Obviously, last year didn’t go the way we wanted it to go, but he got a heck of an opportunity to be a head coach in the National Football League, which I know was one of his desires, and I’m just happy for him.” 

Monken's new team only has to worry about one of those two offensive stalwarts for the Ravens this time. Jackson will miss his second full game because of an ankle injury he suffered in Week 4, meaning Tyler Huntley will make the start again for Baltimore.

However, Henry's still churning along, rushing for 476 yards through five games, averaging 4.2 yards while scoring seven touchdowns. He'll be facing a Browns defense that has allowed the last four teams to each average at least 4.2 yards and all gain at least 92 rushing yards a game.

The New York Jets ran for 134 net yards, including 116 by running back Braelon Allen, in a Week 4 Browns loss. There's only one thing the Browns defense can do against Henry, who's run for 57.9 yards per game and 4.3 yards per attempt in nine career games against Cleveland.

"Really populate to the ball, first person taking their shot, getting him to stop his feet, and then everyone that's rallying to the ball," linebacker Quincy Williams said of slowing down Henry. "So that's kind of like what we harped on as far as this week. Had that problem during last week's game with stopping that run.

"So we know for a fact they're going to come in with the run. So during the week, just populate to the ball and actually that first person that's taking that hit to shoot your a shot."

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Chris Easterling can be reached at ceasterling@thebeaconjournal.com. Read more about the Browns at www.beaconjournal.com/sports/browns. Follow him on X at @ceasterlingABJ. Sign up for Browns Insider newsletter at https://profile.beaconjournal.com/newsletters/browns-insider/

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Browns vs. Ravens not 'personal,' but 'strictly business' for Todd Monken

Our editors independently choose our recommendations. Some content is produced with paid support from a third party, however our editorial decisions remain independent. If you buy through our links, the USA TODAY Network may earn a commission. Prices and availability may change.

Week 7 in the Atlantic Coast Conference produced fairly routine outcomes, even if the path to get there was a bit bumpy.

No where was that more evident than the Miami-Florida State game, in which Hurricanes quarterback Darian Mensah and No. 3 Miami continued their run through the ACC with a 43-35 double overtime over Florida State that featured two controversial calls to end the game.

REQUIRED READING: Why military day meant so much to Clemson OL who led Tigers down The Hill with American flag

Elsewhere, Bill Belichick and North Carolina saw their 17-point lead collapse against Manny Diaz and Duke before McGill broke off for a go-ahead 24-yard rushing touchdown with 1:53 left to give the Tar Heels the win.

Kevin Jennings threw for 246 yards and two touchdowns in SMU's 10-point win at home against Virginia, while Kendrick Raphael recorded his second 100-rushing-yard game of the season.

Elsewhere, Louisville beat Syracuse on the road 34-26, and Wake Forest picked up its sixth win of the season with a win at Cal. Clemson also handled business with a 37-0 win against Charleston Southern.

Here's a look at how those games were reflected in the Week 8 US LBM Coaches Poll and AP Top 25 rankings:

College football rankings after Week 7

First-place votes in parentheses.

US LBM Coaches Poll

This section will be updated once the US LBM Coaches Poll is released on Sunday

AP Top 25

This section will be updated once the AP Top 25 is released on Sunday

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: College football rankings after Week 7: Updated Coaches Poll, AP Top 25 for ACC

Southern Miss football had problems across the board in its 23-13 loss to Arkansas State, but the special teams’ comedy of errors was the most glaring.

Time and time again, the unit halted any momentum that the Golden Eagles (1-5, 0-2 Sun Belt Conference) built against the Red Wolves (3-4, 1-2) at Renasant Stadium on Oct. 17.

The issues started on the first drive of the game after Southern Miss' defense forced an Arkansas State three-and-out. Before the Red Wolves could punt the ball away, Golden Eagles linebacker Caleb Triplett jumped offsides, turning a fourth-and-4 into a first-and-10. The mistake allowed Arkansas State to kick a field goal and take an early 3-0 lead.

"One of the best things we've done is avoid penalties on special teams, and tonight we had some critical ones," Southern Miss coach Blake Anderson said. "I just think our immaturity pops out in really bad situations, and it did tonight."

Later in the first quarter, Southern Miss forced another punt on fourth-and-29, but a roughing the punter penalty allowed the Red Wolves to retain possession, leading to another field goal for a 6-0 lead.

The penalties by the punt team were extra deflating because they erased the efforts of a Southern Miss defense that played one of its best games of the season. It held Arkansas State to 304 total yards, a stark improvement from the 662 yards they allowed against Troy on Oct. 6.

"The first quarter with the jumping offsides and then running into the punter, I mean we did pretty much everything we could to try to give them a head start," Anderson said. "Our defense just battled, so I was really, really proud."

Special teams mistakes also cost Southern Miss six points of its own.

With three seconds left in the first half and the Golden Eagles trailing 16-7, they lined up for a 44-yard field goal attempt that would have made it a one-score game. Instead of three points, a bad snap resulted in a 14-yard loss.

"That should've been a turning point," Anderson said. "We should have kicked the field goal, gone (into halftime) with 10 points, come back, scored the first series and we're up 17-16 and everybody feels different. We just didn't execute any of that."

In the third quarter, still trailing 16-7, Southern Miss again had a chance to cut its deficit, but sophomore kicker Creighton Wilbanks missed on a 34-yard field goal attempt.

"I mean, it's college football," Anderson said. "We've got to be able to hit a 30-yard field goal."

It is not the first time Wilbanks and the field goal unit have struggled. Against Tulane on Sept. 29, he missed on a 44-yard attempt and had another blocked in the fourth quarter of the 24-21 loss.

Wilbanks has made just two of his six field goal attempts this season, but despite his struggles, Anderson believes he is the team's best option.

"We've got other issues on our field goal team and I think that plays into the mental space for a kicker," Anderson said. "He is by far the most consistent on a daily basis for us at that job, hands down, not even close. We've just got to be able to carry that over to the field, and he's not alone in that."

Davis Wilson covers Southern Miss athletics and Hattiesburg news for the Hattiesburg American. Email him at DWilson@hattiesb.gannett.com or find him on X at @Davis_Wilson.

This article originally appeared on Hattiesburg American: How special teams errors cost Southern Miss football vs Arkansas State

The MLS Supporters' Shield has been packed up ahead of a trip to Canada after Nashville SC failed to emerge with all three points facing the San Jose Earthquakes on Oct. 17.

First-place NSC tied the Earthquakes 1-1 at PayPal Park, extending its wait to be crowned the league's regular-season champion at least another week, when it faces CF Montréal in its next match on Oct. 24. Nashville SC has met San Jose (13-9-8, 48 points) five times dating to 2022, with each match ultimately finishing in a one-all draw.

"There's a level of disappointment that we didn't reach our objective, but I think San Jose was really good tonight and challenged us in a lot of different ways," coach B.J. Callaghan said. "We're going to learn and we'll get better. Get rested, recovered and look to turn it around next week."

Nashville (20-7-3, 67 points) did clinch first in the Eastern Conference for the first time in club history, sitting 12 points above second-place Inter Miami, which is tied on points in the Supporters' Shield standings with the Vancouver Whitecaps. NSC has also collected the most points through 30 games in MLS history.

More: How Nashville SC's Hany Mukhtar set the tone in win over Sporting KC

Captain Hany Mukhtar continued to put the heat on Miami's Lionel Messi in the race for MLS MVP, scoring for a fifth consecutive match to put Nashville SC ahead in the first half. Mukhtar has recorded 16 goals and eight assists for the league leaders in MLS play, with seven goal contributions throughout Nashville's now six-game winning streak.

"It's really good to play and to be around such talented players like Sam (Surridge) and like Hany," said NSC's Cristian Espinoza, who played for the Earthquakes from 2019 to 2025. "But I always say it's not just Sam and Hany, it's all the team . . . It's the whole team which is shining right now and that's why this team is really special. That's why we are in the position that we are right now."

After heading into halftime with the advantage, Nashville fielded waves of pressure from San Jose, which ultimately mounted to an equalizing goal from Preston Judd in the 70th minute. Nashville SC pushed for a late winner, but a promising trio of chances from substitute Elias Saad each failed to find the net.

"I thought you had to give a lot of credit to San Jose for coming out and putting more pressure on us," Callaghan said of the second half. "But I also thought there were some moments we exploited opportunities, so for us I think (it was) pretty balanced. We had a couple chances to score and it'll be a good opportunity to take a couple of days to look at it and improve it and get ready for Montréal."

After three games in an eight-day span, two of which came on the road, Nashville has a week-long break before traveling north to face Montréal (6-7-17, 25 points), which sits at the bottom of the Eastern Conference.

Harrison Campbell can be reached at hcampbell@usatodayco.com and follow him on X (formerly Twitter) @hccamp.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Nashville SC's wait for MLS Supporters' Shield extended with draw at San Jose

The Nashville Predators offer a "Big Juice" and a "Little Juice" on their menu.

Six-foot-4, 210-pound Justus Annunen is the "Big Juice," while 5-11, 180-pound Juuse Saros is "Little Juice."

What about a "Medium Juice," coach Andrew Brunette was asked after the latter stopped 24 of the 26 shots he faced during the 5-2 victory against the St. Louis Blues on Oct. 17, ending the Predators' losing streak at three games.

"We'll try to find one," Brunette said with a laugh.

It was Saros' seventh start in eight games this season.

Annunen, who was placed on injured reserve Oct. 6 with an undisclosed ailment but was activated Oct. 15, dressed against the Blues but was on the bench again. He has not played this season.

Matt Murray has started one game for the Predators (3-2-3, nine points), on Oct. 10 against the Ottawa Senators.

Why didn't Justus Annunen play against the Blues?

Brunette said he'd like Annunen to practice a few more times before returning to game action, as a precaution.

The Predators have four days between games after the victory against the Blues (3-4-1, seven points). So it made sense to Brunette to give him another game off.

HE WANTS MORE, MORE, MORE: Surprising shootout decision, Steven Stamkos' amazing goal our top Predators takeaways

"With 'Big Juice' being injured and just kind of getting back to backing up and not really having a practice with us, we just felt it was best for both guys getting 'Little Juice' back in a big game," Brunette said. "He played exceptionally well (Oct. 15), so we can stack on that effort.

"Putting 'Big Juice' in there didn't feel overly fair for him right now."

What does 'Little Juice' think about the big workload?

Saros, in his 12th season with the Predators, knows work and he knows he's going to play.

A lot.

Three times, he has led NHL goalies in games played and saves made. Twice, he has played more minutes than any goalie in the league. Twice, he has been an All-Star.

Never once has he complained about how much he plays.

"I enjoy it," he told The Tennessean. "Over the years I got used to playing a lot. I just try to make the most of it."

He's 2-2-2 this season with an .897 save percentage. A small sample size, to be fair.

"Obviously we want to play, but at the same time, obviously you can't play them all," he said.

Who do the Predators play next?

The Predators go on the road to face the Boston Bruins on Oct. 22, a rare four-day stretch without a game.

Paul Skrbina is a sports enterprise reporter covering the Predators, Titans, Nashville SC, local colleges and local sports for The Tennessean. Reach him at pskrbina@tennessean.com and on the X platform (formerly known as Twitter) @paulskrbina.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Predators goalie Juuse Saros is playing a lot. But is he playing too much?

The North Carolina Tar Heels men's basketball team plays the Indiana Hoosiers in a preseason exhibition game ahead of the 2026 college basketball season on Sunday, Oct. 18 (5 p.m. ET., Big Ten Plus), at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.

If you want to watch the Tar Heels and Hoosiers, you'll have to download Big Ten Plus. The game will not be on TV, which means it'll air exclusively on the Big Ten Network's subscription streaming service. The network has a one-time, pay-per-view option ($8.99) for UNC vs. Indiana. The offer is available via computer use/web only and can't be purchased via mobile devices.

Once the UNC-Indiana game is purchased, fans can watch the game on bigtenplus.com or on the B1G+ app via phones, tablets, gaming devices and smart TVs.

Link to subscribe/watch UNC-Indiana

The Tar Heels are in their first season under coach Michael Malone, who has a roster which includes 11 newcomers. Jarin Stevenson, Jaydon Young and Isaiah Denis are the scholarship returners for UNC, which added high-profile transfers in Utah's Terrence Brown, N.C. State's Matt Able and Virginia Tech's Neo Avdalas.

The Hoosiers are entering their second season under coach Darian DeVries, who has 12 newcomers on his roster. The Tar Heels will be familiar with some of the Indiana players, including Notre Dame transfer Markus Burton, Duke transfer Darren Harris, SMU transfer Samet Yigitoglu, Georgia Tech transfer Jaeden Mustaf and Alabama transfer Aiden Sherrell.

Here's how to watch the UNC vs. Indiana game today, including time, TV schedule and streaming information.

What channel is UNC vs Indiana on today?

TV Channel: Not available via TV

Livestream:Big Ten Plus/B1G+

UNC vs. Indiana in a preseason exhibition game for the 2026 college basketball season is only available via Big Ten Plus, which can be downloaded via app stores. The one-time-fee cost will be roughly $10 if you just want to watch the Tar Heels and Hoosiers. There's a special pay-per-view page for the UNC vs. Indiana game. For local radio in Chapel Hill, the game can be found on 97.9 FM. Fans can listen for free online through the 97.9 FM Chapelboro website.

UNC vs Indiana time today

Date: Sunday, Oct. 18

Start time: 5 p.m. ET

The UNC vs. Indiana game starts at 5 p.m. ET from Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.

UNC basketball schedule 2026-27

• Oct. 9 – Preseason exhibition vs. Southern Cal (W, 88-70)
• Oct. 18 – Preseason exhibition vs. Indiana (in Indianapolis), 5 p.m. (B1G+)
• Oct. 27 -- Preseason exhibition vs. Charlotte, 7:30 p.m. (ACC Network Extra)
• Nov. 2 – Western Carolina, 7 p.m. (ACC Network)
• Nov. 6 -- Wofford, 7 p.m. (ACC Network)
• Nov. 10 -- Wyoming, 7 p.m. (ACC Network)
• Nov. 13 – Georgia, 7 p.m. (ESPN2)
• Nov. 20 – Marshall, 9 p.m. (ACC Network)
• Nov. 23 — Monmouth, 8 p.m. (ACC Network)
• Nov. 27 – West Virginia (Dick Vitale Invitational in Charlotte), 7 p.m. (ESPN)
• Dec. 1 – Arkansas (ACC/SEC Challenge), 7:30 p.m. (ESPN)
• Dec. 6 – Butler, 3 p.m. (ESPN2)
• Dec. 12 – at Georgetown, Noon (Peacock)
• Dec. 15 — N.C. State (Tobacco Road Classic in Greensboro), 7 p.m. (ESPN2)
• Dec. 19 — Kentucky (CBS Sports Classic in New York), 2:30 p.m. (CBS)
• Dec. 21 — The Citadel, 8 p.m. (CW)
• Dec. 30 — Cal, 4 p.m. (ACC Network)
• Jan. 2 — at Boston College, 4 p.m. (ESPN or ESPN2)
• Jan. 5 — at Louisville, 9 p.m. (ESPN or ESPNU)
• Jan. 9 — N.C. State, Noon (ESPN2)
• Jan. 13 — at Florida State, 7 p.m. (ESPN2 or ESPNU)
• Jan. 16 — Stanford, 2:15 p.m. (CW)
• Jan. 19 — Virginia, 9 p.m. (ESPN)
• Jan. 23 — at Syracuse, Noon (ESPN, ESPN2 or ESPNU)
• Jan. 26 — SMU, 7 p.m. (ESPN or ESPN2)
• Jan. 30 — Illinois (Nashville Hoops Showdown in Tennessee), 6/6:30 p.m. (ESPN)
• Feb. 2 — at Notre Dame, 7 p.m. (ESPN or ESPN2)
• Feb.6 — Georgia Tech, 2:15 p.m. (CW)
• Feb. 8 — Louisville, 6 p.m. (ESPN)
• Feb. 13 — at Duke, 5:30 p.m. (ABC)
• Feb. 20 — at Wake Forest, 7 p.m. (ACC Network)
• Feb. 22 — Miami, 7 p.m. (ESPN)
• Feb. 27 — at Virginia Tech, 7 p.m. (ACC Network)
• March 2 — at Pitt, 9 p.m. (ESPN or ESPN2)
• March 6 — Duke, 6/6:30 p.m. (ESPN)
• March 9-13 — ACC Tournament in Greensboro
• March 18 — NCAA Tournament

Rodd Baxley covers North Carolina Tar Heels athletics for The Fayetteville Observer as part of the USA TODAY Network. Follow his ACC coverage on X/Twitter or Bluesky: @RoddBaxley. Got questions regarding UNC? Send them to rbaxley@usatodayco.com.

This article originally appeared on The Fayetteville Observer: What channel is UNC vs Indiana on today? Time, streaming info on Big Ten Plus

Our editors independently choose our recommendations. Some content is produced with paid support from a third party, however our editorial decisions remain independent. If you buy through our links, the USA TODAY Network may earn a commission. Prices and availability may change.

KNOXVILLE — It was as it has been before. “Dixieland Delight” on the speakers. Cigars on lips. Gleeful masses cascading like waterfalls from the seats. Cell phones in hands, everyone capturing their own little slice of collective Big Orange euphoria.

This is what it’s like — still — when Tennessee beats Alabama at Neyland Stadium.

“Now there's an expectation,” Vols coach Josh Heupel said after this 26-10 victory on Oct. 17. “That’s what you do when you're playing these guys.”

If 2022 was historic for the Vols and 2024 was validation, then 2026 was emphatic. This wasn't close. Tennessee pushed around an Alabama program that had spent years pushing around the rest of the SEC, most routinely the rival Vols.

My friend Wes Rucker would’ve loved to see it.

Wes, as many of you know, died suddenly and tragically in a Feb, 19 auto accident in Knoxville. He was 43. He left behind his lovely wife Lauren, his young son Hank, and a soon-to-be-born daughter, Rose, who has since arrived. I found out via a late-night phone call while I was overseas covering the Winter Olympics in Italy.

It was awful. It's still awful.

You likely heard about this and grieved, too, especially if you are a Vols fan. Wes had a huge following, and for many reasons. He was super talented. A heck of a writer and reporter. Gold on a microphone. Adept at social media. For years, he was beloved as a prominent voice on UT sports. He’ll be cherished and remembered forever by so many.

For me, though, a little different. I lost a very close friend of mine of more than 20 years.

Wes was that loyal, lasting friend you might not call or see regularly, but you knew that you always could. I keep thinking back on so many important moments in my life that included Wes. We took road trips for work. We took road trips as friends. We were at each other's weddings.

Wes had lines. Memorable ones. That was just his way. He’d lead you to places he knew you needed to go without carrying you or being critical. He was always on your side. He was supportive, and he said things in ways that'd stick while making you feel like a stronger person. I can't imagine anyone being a better friend.

Even in recent years, when we both had gotten busy being grown-ups with families, I’d get to press boxes at UT early and seek him out. We’d sit and chat until we had to stop because a game was starting. About pretty much anything, too, from sports to life to whatever else.

I don’t get to do that anymore when I travel to Knoxville for work, and that has been difficult. Life moves on. I can’t say that I have in this instance.

Which is probably why, suddenly, I felt so sad while standing on the field at Neyland Stadium, watching thousands celebrate in this biennial orange chaos. Grief can be sneaky like that. It’ll wait to grab you in moments you least anticipate, though I do anticipate when I'm here. Covering Tennessee games, in any sport, has been difficult this year. A lot of firsts. That first football game at Neyland Stadium after Wes’ death, for instance, wasn't easy for me.

There’s a nice memorial for Wes in the Neyland press box. UT permanently dedicated a seat to him. I’ve gained so much respect for Tennessee coaches, staff members and fans through this terrible experience. Vol Nation has been wonderful to Team Rucker in so many ways. I've appreciated that endlessly. But quietly.

Meanwhile, I hadn’t brought those emotions into this space. Soon after Wes’ accident, an editor asked if I wanted to write a column about him. I thought about it. I figured that I would eventually, but I wasn’t ready.

It wasn’t until I stood on that field, dang near tears, that it occurred to me it might be time.

So here I am, covering a massive Tennessee football win and barely writing a word about the game. If Wes were to read this, he’d probably tell me that I should’ve focused on Jim Knowles’ defense or DeSean Bishop and the run game or what it means, big-picture, for the programs.

This was, after all, my 16th Alabama-Tennessee game in person. You amass a total that high when you’re old and you’ve held multiple jobs covering each program. I’m thinking about No. 8.

In 2007, I was a first-year beat writer covering Alabama, after previously covering Tennessee for the Chattanooga Times Free Press. As that game ended with the Crimson Tide comfortably ahead, their fans’ “Rammer Jammer” chant echoed through Bryant-Denny Stadium.

Next to me on the sideline, Chattanooga’s new Vols beat writer who’d replaced me just before the season looked around: “I’d better get used to that.”

Wes was correct, of course.

With Nick Saban having just arrived in Tuscaloosa, it was easy to sense, even then, which way the winds were blowing for his Crimson Tide. But Wes was right about something else. He knew he wouldn’t be going anywhere. He was home. He was covering the Vols. He always would.

Though he’s not sitting here right now, I do see him, still typing away at some epic, lengthy take that’d mean he was the last reporter in the press box before leaving “General Neyland’s Big Ol’ Damn House of Football.” It has not and will never be the same without him.

While I pondered that in the press box, a UT staffer came over to me and said, "You know who would've enjoyed that one?"

I sure did.

Reach Tennessean sports columnist Gentry Estes at gestes@tennessean.com and hang out with him on Bluesky @gentryestes.bsky.social

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: For Vols, a game to cherish, and for me, a night to remember my close friend | Estes

Javier Tebas launches fresh attack on Real Madrid and questions Spanish sports chief over apology demand

Real Madrid and La Liga president Javier Tebas are embroiled in an ugly feud, with both sides exchanging sharp words in recent days.

The controversy surrounding Tebas has taken another turn, with the La Liga president refusing to apologise for his comparison of Real Madrid TV’s communication methods with Nazi-era propaganda techniques.

Tebas has publicly responded to Jose Manuel Rodriguez Uribes, president of the Higher Sports Council (CSD), after the latter described his remarks as unacceptable and called for an apology to Real Madrid.

Tebas refuses to back down

In a lengthy post on X, Tebas once again defended his comparison between Real Madrid TV’s communication methods and those associated with Joseph Goebbels, Nazi Germany’s propaganda minister.

He maintained that his criticism concerned propaganda techniques rather than Nazi ideology or Real Madrid supporters.

To support his argument, Tebas shared examples of journalists, editorial writers and politicians who had previously referenced Goebbels when discussing communication strategies.

However, the La Liga president also appeared to question Uribes’ independence after the sports official publicly called for an apology.

“What a coincidence that Mourinho and you bring up the apology, isn’t it? It must be ‘superior’ telepathy,” Tebas wrote.

The response comes amid Real Madrid’s continuing demand for Tebas’ resignation over his original remarks.

Tebas is making the situation worse

Tebas is well within his rights to criticise Real Madrid TV’s coverage of refereeing and Spanish football institutions.

However, his repeated attempts to justify such an inflammatory comparison are becoming increasingly difficult to defend.

Tebas is in an all-out war with Real Madrid. (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)

There is an obvious difference between examining historical propaganda techniques in an academic discussion and invoking Goebbels during a public confrontation with a football club.

Such remarks from the person responsible for overseeing Spanish league football demonstrate a profound lack of sensitivity.

Rather than acknowledging why his words caused offence, Tebas has now turned his attention to questioning the motives of an official who requested an apology.

This is the latest in a long list of issues Madrid have had with the La Liga president and the federation as a whole.

An apology from Tebas would be the least Madrid deserve, but they are also right to push for his resignation.

It remains to be seen how this saga develops in the coming days and how Los Blancos handle their ongoing confrontation with Javier Tebas.

There are 12 games on the NFL Week 6 schedule on Oct. 18, with many of them pivotal matchups.

The day begins with the Houston Texans vs Jacksonville Jaguars in London.

There are seven games in the early NFL game window, including the Chicago Bears at Atlanta Falcons and Carolina Panthers at Philadelphia Eagles.

There are four games in the late window, including the Arizona Cardinals at Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Chargers at Kansas City Chiefs.

The day concludes with the Dallas Cowboys at Green Bay Packers on Sunday Night Football.

Here's what you need to know about how to watch the NFL Week 6 games on Sunday, including times, TV channels and streaming information.

Watch Sunday's NFL games on FUBO (free trial)

NFL Week 6 schedule for Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026 (all times MST)

• Houston Texans vs Jacksonville Jaguars (London, England), 6:30 a.m., NFL Network (stream with FUBO)
• Chicago Bears at Atlanta Falcons, 10 a.m., FOX (stream with FUBO)
• Baltimore Ravens at Cleveland Browns, 10 a.m., FOX (stream with FUBO)
• Tennessee Titans at Indianapolis Colts, 10 a.m., FOX (stream with FUBO)
• New York Jets at New England Patriots, 10 a.m., CBS (stream with FUBO)
• New Orleans Saints at New York Giants, 10 a.m., FOX (stream with FUBO)
• Carolina Panthers at Philadelphia Eagles, 10 a.m., CBS (stream with FUBO)
• Pittsburgh Steelers at Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 10 a.m., CBS (stream with FUBO)
• Arizona Cardinals at Los Angeles Rams, 1:05 p.m., FOX (stream with FUBO)
• Los Angeles Chargers at Kansas City Chiefs, 1:25 p.m., CBS (stream with FUBO)
• Buffalo Bills at Las Vegas Raiders, 1:25 p.m., CBS (stream with FUBO)
• Dallas Cowboys at Green Bay Packers, 5:20 p.m., NBC (stream with Peacock)

NFL Week 6 predictions:Broncos vs Seahawks | Jaguars vs Texans | Falcons vs Bears | Browns vs Ravens | Colts vs Titans | Patriots vs Jets | Giants vs Saints | Eagles vs Panthers | Buccaneers vs Steelers | Rams vs Cardinals | Chiefs vs Chargers | Raiders vs Bills | Packers vs Cowboys | 49ers vs Commanders | Win probabilities | Score projections

NFL Week 6 picks:Seahawks vs Broncos | Texans vs Jaguars | Bears vs Falcons | Ravens vs Browns | Titans vs Colts | Jets vs Patriots | Saints vs Giants | Panthers vs Eagles | Steelers vs Buccaneers | Cardinals vs Rams | Chargers vs Chiefs | Bills vs Raiders | Cowboys vs Packers | Commanders vs 49ers | The Republic's predictions

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Reach Jeremy Cluff at jeremy.cluff@arizonarepublic.com. Follow him on X, formerly Twitter @Jeremy_Cluff.

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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: What channels are NFL games on Sunday? How to watch NFL Week 6 on TV

Our editors independently choose our recommendations. Some content is produced with paid support from a third party, however our editorial decisions remain independent. If you buy through our links, the USA TODAY Network may earn a commission. Prices and availability may change.

The Houston Texans and Jacksonville Jaguars play in an international game on the NFL Week 6 schedule today.

The game will be played at Wembley Stadium in London, England.

How can you watch the Texans vs Jaguars Week 6 NFL game on Oct. 18?

How can you stream the NFL Week 6 game Sunday?

Check out the time, TV channel, streaming information and NFL Week 6 announcers for the Jaguars vs Texans NFL Week 6 game.

Watch Texans vs Jaguars on FUBO (free trial)

What time is the Texans vs Jaguars game today?

The Jacksonville Jaguars vs Houston Texans Week 6 NFL game is scheduled for 6:30 a.m. MST (9:30 a.m. ET) on Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026.

NFL Week 6 schedule: TV channels, how to watch, how to stream games

What channel is the Jaguars vs Texans game on Sunday?

The Houston Texans vs Jacksonville Jaguars NFL Week 6 game game today can be seen on TV on NFL Network.

NFL Week 6 predictions:Broncos vs Seahawks | Jaguars vs Texans | Falcons vs Bears | Browns vs Ravens | Colts vs Titans | Patriots vs Jets | Giants vs Saints | Eagles vs Panthers | Buccaneers vs Steelers | Rams vs Cardinals | Chiefs vs Chargers | Raiders vs Bills | Packers vs Cowboys | 49ers vs Commanders | Win probabilities | Score projections

How can I stream the Texans vs Jaguars game on Oct. 18?

The Jacksonville vs Houston game in NFL Week 6 can be streamed on FUBO, which offers a free trial.

NFL Week 6 announcers: TV broadcasters, announcing crews this week

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Who is announcing the Jaguars vs Texans NFL Week 6 game?

Bob Wischusen will have the play-by-play call of the Week 6 NFL game between the Houston Texans and Jacksonville Jaguars today, with Louis Riddick as the analyst.

NFL Week 6 picks:Seahawks vs Broncos | Texans vs Jaguars | Bears vs Falcons | Ravens vs Browns | Titans vs Colts | Jets vs Patriots | Saints vs Giants | Panthers vs Eagles | Steelers vs Buccaneers | Cardinals vs Rams | Chargers vs Chiefs | Bills vs Raiders | Cowboys vs Packers | Commanders vs 49ers | The Republic's predictions

Reach Jeremy Cluff at jeremy.cluff@arizonarepublic.com. Follow him on X, formerly Twitter @Jeremy_Cluff.

Support local journalism: Subscribe to azcentral.com today. Sign up for azcentral Preps Now. And be sure to subscribe to our daily sports newsletters so you don't miss a thing.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: What channel is Texans vs Jaguars on? How to watch NFL Week 6 game

Our editors independently choose our recommendations. Some content is produced with paid support from a third party, however our editorial decisions remain independent. If you buy through our links, the USA TODAY Network may earn a commission. Prices and availability may change.

Vanderbilt baseball will host an exhibition game for the first time this fall at noon on Oct. 18, taking on Walters State at Hawkins Field.

The Commodores will have four fall exhibition games, with two of those at home.

Vanderbilt, which missed the NCAA tournament in 2026, brought in both a top-10 freshman and transfer class for the upcoming season. The freshman class was ranked No. 2 by Baseball America and includes top position players James Tronstein, Noah Wilson and Gunner Skelton, and pitchers Joseph Contreras, Bo Holloway and Eli Herst.

The transfer class, ranked No. 7 by Baseball America, consists of eight players, including infielder Blaize Ward, catcher Matt Conte, outfielder Bud Coombs and pitchers Shane Brinham and Gavin Lauridsen. Each of those five players came from another power-conference school, with three from the Big Ten, one from the ACC and one from the SEC.

The Commodores have also returned several key contributors, including Friday starter Connor Fennell and infielders Brodie Johnston, Ryker Waite and Tommy Goodin.

Walters State Community College is located in Morristown, Tennessee.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Vanderbilt baseball vs Walters State exhibition live updates

UNC basketball continues its 2026-27 preseason schedule with an exhibition game against Indiana Hoosiers on Sunday, Oct. 18 (5 p.m. ET., Big Ten Plus), at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.

If you want to watch the Tar Heels and Hoosiers, you'll have to download Big Ten Plus. The game will not be on TV, which means it'll air exclusively on the Big Ten Network's subscription streaming service. The network has a one-time, pay-per-view option ($8.99) for UNC vs. Indiana. The offer is available via computer use/web only and can't be purchased via mobile devices.

Once the UNC-Indiana game is purchased, fans can watch the game on bigtenplus.com or on the B1G+ app via phones, tablets, gaming devices and smart TVs.

The Tar Heels opened their first season under coach Michael Malone, who has a roster that includes 11 newcomers, with an 18-point exhibition win vs. USC. Jarin Stevenson was the star in a double-double performance.

The Hoosiers are entering their second season under coach Darian DeVries, who has 12 newcomers on his roster. The Tar Heels will be familiar with some of the Indiana players, including Notre Dame transfer Markus Burton, Duke transfer Darren Harris, SMU transfer Samet Yigitoglu, Georgia Tech transfer Jaeden Mustaf and Alabama transfer Aiden Sherrell.

Link to subscribe/watch UNC-Indiana

Get real-time updates, scoring plays, turning points and expert analysis throughout UNC's exhibition game against Indiana. Follow along for highlights, injury news, key plays and instant breakdown as the Tar Heels take on the Hoosiers in Indianapolis.

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Today in Boston Celtics history, in 1950, Hall of Fame Celtics coach and general manager Red Auerbach coached his inaugural game in that role with the storied franchise. He had recently joined the team following the resignation of the franchise's first coach, Alvin "Doggy" Julian. Prior to this role, Auerbach served as an assistant coach at Duke University and held the position of head coach for the Tri-Cities Blackhawks (now known as the Atlanta Hawks), before departing from that position due to a disagreement with the club's ownership.

Red had inherited a team with a 22-46 record and a desperate owner trying not to go belly-up who made an unusual decision towards that end that panned out in a big way. That owner, Walter Brown, actually asked a number of local sportswriters who he ought to hire as a coach for the team, and after being recommended Auerbach by the crowd, extended an offer. The future Celtics legend accepted and immediately got to work avoiding Bob Cousy in the draft (he would end up on the team later that fall after a dispersal draft sent him to Boston) while breaking the color barrier in professional basketball by drafting Chuck Cooper.

When October 18 rolled around, it was time for the very first test of the Auerbach-helmed Celtics, and Boston won the friendly preseason tilt against the Baltimore Bullets (now defunct, and not the team that became the Washington Wizards) 102-92. The rest, as they say, is history.

Historic milestones

It is also the date of a number of players making their NBA debuts with the Celtics, least of which includes former Boston big man Rich Johnson. An alum of Grambling State taken by the Celtics with the 46th pick (there were many more rounds to the draft in that era) of the 1968 NBA Draft, Johnson played his first minutes in the game in a 106-88 blowout of the Detroit Pistons. It was a modest debut that saw the Louisiana native score just 2 points.

It is also the date of Florida State alum Ben Clyde's debut with the Celtics in 1974, which saw the big man play his first game in a 126-119 loss to the Buffalo Braves (technically, the team that is now the Celtics now, though that is a long story). The Georgia native had a better debut, logging a 2-point, 1-rebound inaugural outing in 4 minutes of play.

It was also on this day in 2017 that both Daniel Theis and Abdel Nader made their debut for the team in a 108-100 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks. Theis had the better game of the two despite playing less than 5 minutes to Nader's 11 and a half, putting up 6 points and 2 boards in contrast to the Iowa State alum, who recorded 4 points and an assist.

In another of several debuts, it was also the day Joe Mazzulla spent his first game on Boston's sidelines as head coach, having been elevated to interim status after Ime Udoka was suspended for an improper workplace relationship in the summer 2022. The game was a 126-117 win over the Philadelphia 76ers that was special for other reasons after the Celtics paid homage to Bill Russell a few months after the Boston great had passed away. Special uniforms and patches, a global retirement of the No. 6 jersey, and a court with a large No. 6 on the lane to honor the civil rights icon and NBA superstar were but some of the honors for Russell.

This article originally appeared on Celtics Wire: Today in Boston Celtics history: Auerbach coaches 1st game; Theis, Nader, Mazzulla debut; Russell tribute

Los Angeles Clippers forward Baba Miller (18) go up for a lay up defended by Toronto Raptors forward Collin Murray-Boyles (30) in the first half at Rogers Arena. | Source: Lastwordonsports.com - Daniel Benjamin, Editor

With the 36th pick in the 2026 NBA draft, the Los Angeles Clippers select Baba Miller. Following his impressive showing in the Summer League and preseason, Miller is ready to capitalize at the NBA level. Get ready for a promising season from the rookie!

The Clippers Have a History of  Striking Gold With Second Rounders

The Clippers have struck gold in the second round in recent history. Last season, the team took Kobe Sanders with the 50th pick in the draft. Sanders joined a team with championship aspirations and made his way into the rotation only one month into his rookie season.

In the 2023 NBA draft, the Clippers selected Jordan Miller with the 48th pick. Miller was not expected to be in the rotation this past season either and ended up averaging double digits as a key rotational player.

In the 2022 NBA draft, the Clippers selected Moussa Diabate with the 43rd pick. Despite not thriving for the Clippers, Diabate is a great example of the Clippers’ ability to locate talent in the second round. Diabate produced a career season, averaging 7.9 points and 8.7 rebounds while playing elite defense for the Charlotte Hornets.

The list of second-round steals goes all the way back to Terance Mann from the 2019 NBA draft. Mann became a crucial part of the Clippers franchise, putting up 39 points to secure the win that led to the team’s first-ever appearance in the Western Conference Finals.

Baba Miller Will Be in the RotationLos Angeles Clippers forward Baba Miller (18) handles the ball against the Toronto Raptors in the second half at Rogers Arena. Photo Credit: Bob Frid. Imagn Images via Reuters Connect

Miller will be the Clippers’ secondary power forward and tertiary center in his rookie season. The Clippers have been hit with a series of injuries heading into the 2026-2027 NBA season. Brandon Ingram, Miller, Max Strus, Bradley Beal, and Yanic Konan-Niederhauser will all be unavailable to start the season. This opens up opportunities for the Clippers’ young core to impress their way into the rotation.

Despite all these injuries, Miller has a secure spot in the rotation. The Clippers’ backup power forward in recent years, Nicolas Batum, retired from basketball during the offseason. The Clippers were then left with a hole at the power forward position.

Konan-Niederhauser’s injury also created a hole in the Clippers’ rotation. The Clippers announced that Isaiah Jackson will start at center on opening night, with Brook Lopez as his primary backup. Miller will provide insurance behind those two and could see some run in Ty Lue’s preferred small-ball basketball.

The Last Word

Before his first Summer League game, the Clippers signed Miller to a 4-year, $9.61 million pact. Miller’s first two years are guaranteed. He will make $1.7 million this season.

The team’s financial commitment to Miller shows their belief in a player who has yet to play in the NBA. This is a testament to his skill set as a 7-foot forward who can shoot, pass, defend, and play both on and off the ball.

Miller is one of the Clippers’ three rookies who made their 18-man squad. 2026 No. 5 overall selection Keaton Wagler and Nick Martinelli are the others. Martinelli, the No. 55 pick in this past June’s draft,

Ultimately, Miller will have a spot in the rotation to make an impact on the immediate roster. Considering the Clippers have already committed long-term money to the rookie who fills a positional need, expect a promising rookie season from the 36th pick.

More NBA News

What Waiving Pat Connaughton Means for the Hornets

Finding The Solution To The Trail Blazers’ Forward Problem

Does Ben Simmons Starting Make the Kings Better

 Photo Credit: Bob Frid, Imagn Images via Reuters Connect

This week, Chiefs Wire's Ed Easton Jr. spoke with Super Bowl-winning coach and Tampa Bay Buccaneers Senior football consultant Bruce Arians.

In his interview with Easton Jr., Arians discussed his work with Novartis on its "Relax, it's a Blood Test" prostate cancer screening campaign. He discussed the importance of having veteran coaches on a team's staff and credited Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid.

"So you see your doctor, you risk it, so you get screened every year, and you know my levels had gone up," said Arians. "Didn't think it was much. Found out it was, and we had a great doctor. Everything was fantastic, and for me, it's very personal."

Arians has spent a lifetime coaching, from college to the NFL, and he shared his opinion on which staff in today's game he'd collaborate with if he were still active.

"Starting with Andy (Reid), for sure, but there are so many good young coaches right now. I'm a little concerned about the youth of some of these coaches because situational football is biting them in the butt right now; they haven't experienced enough of it and don't know how to find it," said Arians. "I think that I love that a couple of the young coaches hired veterans to help. I think Joe Brady's (Buffalo Bills) has a great staff of young and old, and I've always said: every young coach, get two old coaches, one on each side of the ball, that you can vent to, because you can't vent to a young coach. They go, "Hey," and go home and tell their wife. Then they tell everybody. But get two old guys you can lean on, because it's a hard job."

Find out if a PSA blood test is right for you at RelaxItsABloodTest.com, and follow along on social (@RelaxItsABloodTest). To learn more about Novartis, the NFL partnership, and community health impact, please visit:novartis.com/NFL.

This article originally appeared on Chiefs Wire: Bruce Arians shares the importance of needing a veteran coach on staff

Updated NCAA Top 25 polls after Georgia, Notre Dame, Indiana losses in Week 7 originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Week 7 of the college football season was historically chaotic, guaranteeing major changes in the upcoming polls.

Several top-10 teams lost on Saturday, showing the depth in some of the biggest conferences. Georgia, Indiana, Alabama, Texas and Notre Dame all fell in Saturday's action, making it five of the 10-best teams in the country adding to their loss column.

As a result, there doesn't appear to be any dominant teams in college football this season, which has also given more programs hope that they can pull off upsets. Auburn and Florida were both unranked teams who won on the road, while Tennessee took down the Crimson Tide despite starting a backup quarterback.

The biggest winners from the day are Miami, Ohio State and BYU, all of whom stand to gain the most from the teams around them losing. Here's a look at how the college football rankings shake out after Week 7's slate of upsets.

MORE: SEC 'Hangover Saturday' with Texas, Alabama and Georgia losses comes with no excuses

College football rankings for Week 7

This section will be updated when the polls are released.

AP PollRankTeamRecordPoints (No. 1 Votes)1.2.3.4.5.6.7.8.9.10.11.12.13.14.15.16.17.18.19.20.21.22.23.24.25.

Others receiving votes:

MORE: Where Texas stands after loss to Florida

Coaches PollRankTeamRecordPoints (No. 1 Votes)1.2.3.4.5.6.7.8.9.10.11.12.13.14.15.16.17.18.19.20.21.22.23.24.25.

Others receiving votes:

MORE:BYU upsets Notre Dame after questionable non-calls on final play

Where to watch Nottingham Forest vs. Arsenal live stream, TV channel, start time for Premier League match originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

A highly anticipated Premier League matchup will take place at the City Ground as Nottingham Forest hosts Arsenal on Sunday.

Nottingham is facing a bit of a rough patch, suffering back-to-back defeats against Crystal Palace and Coventry in recent outings. Forest is currently the second-worst attacking side, with just five goals under their belt to date. The Reds have a solid home record though, which could be a slight advantage entering gameweek seven. 

Arsenal's 2-1 win over Leeds last weekend briefly brought them to the top of the Premier League table, tied with Man City. The Gunners have won nine of their last 10 games across all competitions, and a recent 3-0 rout of Lille is keeping momentum high for the club.

Who will prevail at the City Ground?

The Sporting News looks at the key details ahead of this game, including how to watch the match, kickoff times and the weekly schedule.

Nottingham Forest vs. Arsenallive stream, TV channel

Here's how to watch this Premier League match in the U.S.:

• TV channel: NBCSN
• Live stream:Fubo, Peacock

This Premier League game is available for live TV broadcast on NBCSN, which can be found streaming on Fubo.

Fubo offers a free trial for new subscribers, so you can try the service before you buy. Stream ESPN, ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC and 100+ top channels of live TV and sports without cable. (Participating plans only. Taxes and fees may apply.)

Fans can also stream the match on Peacock.

Nottingham Forest vs. Arsenal start time

This Premier League clash takes place at City Ground in Nottinghamshire, England and kicks off on Sunday, October 18 at 4:30 p.m. local time.

Here's how that time translates across the U.S.:

DateKickoff timeEastern TimeSun, Oct. 1811:30 a.m.Central TimeSun, Oct. 1810:30 a.m.Mountain TimeSun, Oct. 189:30 a.m.Pacific TimeSun, Oct. 188:30 a.m.Nottingham Forest vs. Arsenal radio coverage

• Radio station:SiriusXM app, channel 188

Listen to live play-by-play coverage of Forest vs. Arsenal nationwide on the SiriusXM app, or in your vehicle on channel 188.

The SiriusXM Sports Pass allows fans to listen to live game broadcasts of the NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, college football and basketball, the PGA Tour, NASCAR and more. Get your first month of the SiriusXM Sports Pass for free, then pay just $5 a month or $49 for a year. 

Premier League schedule this week

All times below ET

Saturday, October 17

• Everton vs. Chelsea (7:30 a.m.)
• Fulham vs. Hull (10 a.m.)
• Man City vs. Ipswich Town (10 a.m.)
• Brentford vs. Liverpool (10 a.m.)
• Newcastle vs. Aston Villa (12:30 p.m.)

Sunday, October 18

• Brighton vs. Palace (9 a.m.)
• Bournemouth vs. Sunderland (9 a.m.)
• Leeds vs. Man United (9 a.m.)
• Nottingham Forest vs. Arsenal (11:30 a.m.)

Monday, October 19

• Tottenham Hotspur vs. Coventry (3 p.m.)

U21s Team News: Whites to face Crystal Palace

Scott Gardner has made three changes to the Leeds United Under-21s team ahead of today’s Premier League 2 meeting with Crystal Palace.

After the EFL Trophy tie at Oldham Athletic during the week, Robbie Cook returns to the starting XI in goal, behind a defence of Alfie Cresswell, Louis Enahoro-Marcus and Jayden Lienou.

On the flanks, Freddie Lane and Louie Philpott retain their places, next to a midfield duo of Rhys Chadwick and skipper Ollie Pickles. Leading the line is attacking trio Sam Alker, Callum Mills and Carrick Njinko.

On the bench, goalkeeper Darryl Ombang is joined by Roman Egan-Riley, Josh McDonald, Ditmir Hodja and Luke Matykiewicz.

Starting XI: Cook (GK), Cresswell, Enahoro-Marcus, Lienou, Lane, Chadwick, Pickles (C), Philpott, Alker, Mills, Njinko.

Subs: Ombang (GK), Egan-Riley, McDonald, Hodja, Matykiewicz.

Palace: Lee (GK), Kalembo, Somade, Okoli, King (C), Benamar, Danaher, Nascimento, Williams, Gibbard, Gozo.

Subs: Hill (GK), White, Martin, Adams-Collman, Kporha, Angibeaud, Fsida.

(Photo by Leonhard Simon/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Bayern Munich could be missing two of its most creative players for a massive Champions League showdown with Arsenal, leaving Vincent Kompany with an important decision to make. With Michael Olise and Jamal Musiala unavailable, who should take over the No. 10 role and help Bayern unlock one of Europe’s toughest defenses?

There are a few intriguing options on the table, and each brings something different to the position.

• Lennart Karl: The exciting young talent has already shown that he is not afraid of the big stage. Karl offers creativity, quick feet, and the ability to turn a defender with a moment of individual brilliance. Starting against Arsenal would be a significant test, but his unpredictability could make him a dangerous option between the lines. Is this the kind of opportunity Bayern should give him?
• Ismael Saibari: The former PSV Eindhoven attacking midfielder could offer a different profile if Bayern want a player capable of carrying the ball, driving forward, and contributing physically in tight spaces. His ability to operate centrally and link up with the forwards makes him an interesting alternative, although throwing him into such a high-stakes match would be a considerable gamble.
• Serge Gnabry: The experienced option might be the safest choice. Gnabry has the experience, movement, and attacking instincts to cause problems around the box. He can arrive in dangerous areas, combine with Harry Kane, and provide a goal threat of his own. He might not replicate Olise’s creativity or Musiala’s dribbling, but Kompany could value his familiarity with Bayern’s system and his experience in major European fixtures.
• Nathaniel Brown: The longshot of the group. Brown is not the natural choice for an attacking midfield role, but his versatility and ability to contribute going forward could make him an unconventional option if Kompany wants to experiment. It would certainly be a surprise selection against Arsenal, though it is difficult to see him beating the other candidates to the starting spot.

There is no straightforward replacement for the creativity Bayern would lose without Olise and Musiala. Kompany must decide whether to trust youth, take a chance on an alternative profile, or lean on experience.

Who would you start at attacking midfielder against Arsenal: Karl, Saibari, Gnabry, or the longshot Brown? Is there another solution Kompany should consider?

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This is our 29th season doing college football rankings, starting by crushing our first batch by declaring Tennessee the No. 1 team in the country in 1998. The Vols went on to win the national title.

There have been plenty of highs and more than our share of lows over the years, but we’ve seen it all and done even more. So when there’s a chaotic weekend like this, when Georgia, Notre Dame, Indiana, Alabama, and Texas are among the big names to go down, you need someone who won’t overreact to one game and can deliver a top 25 that settles everything down.

It’s going to be okay. Deep breath, here we go …

2026 College Football Rankings: The 25 Best Teams in Week 8Oct 17, 2026; Pasadena, California, USA; UCLA Bruins head coach Bob Chesney on the sidelines in the second half against the Wisconsin Badgers at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images25. Utah Utes

Record: (6-0) 
Last Week Rank: 13 
Week 7: Utah 27, Colorado 24 
Up Next: Houston
Not to overreact too hard, but the struggles against a bad Colorado team freaked us out. Yes, Utah has looked fantastic so far this season, but here’s the problem – it’s Week 8, and it has yet to beat anyone who’ll go to a bowl game without something crazy happening.

24. Arizona Wildcats

Record: (5-1) 
Last Week Rank: 26 
Week 7: OPEN DATE 
Up Next: Iowa State
It’s time to give Arizona more credit for a good Week 2 fight at BYU that was better than the 28-17 final score. Winning at West Virginia and trouncing Cincinnati helped, and now, after two weeks to rest, it has to roll past Iowa State, setting up a showdown at Texas Tech.

23. Wake Forest Demon Deacons

Record: (6-1)
Last Week Rank: 24 
Week 7: Wake Forest 41, Cal 7 
Up Next: OPEN DATE
A team from North Carolina going to Cal and winning in a late-night blowout isn’t easy. The Demon Deacons are ripping through teams now. They beat Purdue and Louisville, and the lone loss was by 13 to Miami.

22. Northwestern Wildcats

Record: (5-1) 
Last Week Rank: 16 
Week 7: Northwestern 24, Michigan State 21 
Up Next: Rutgers
Give credit for the 5-1 record, but beating Penn State isn’t a big deal now – everyone is doing it – and it took a blocked kick to get by Michigan State. (To be fair, the Wildcats went on a fantastic late drive for the game-winning field goal.) Basically, we need more now, and playing Rutgers won’t provide it.

21. Houston Cougars

Record: (6-1) 
Last Week Rank: 23 
Week 7: Houston 35, Oklahoma State 32 
Up Next: at Utah
All due credit given for getting by a hot Oklahoma State and beating Kansas State on the road. The Oregon State win continues to look better and better each week, and the only loss was at Texas Tech on a two-point conversion. That’s all great – now beat Utah this week.

20. Iowa Hawkeyes

Record: (5-1) 
Last Week Rank: 14 
Week 7: OPEN DATE 
Up Next: at Minnesota
The win at Washington two weeks ago will start to look stronger over the next several weeks, and losing to Ohio State is nothing to get upset over. But the Hawkeyes are about to be tested – at Minnesota, Wisconsin, at Northwestern – to start a super-favorable second-half slate.

19. Texas Longhorns

Record: (4-2) 
Last Week Rank: 7 
Week 7: Florida 27, Texas 24 
Up Next: Ole Miss
The world is dumping on Texas now. Steve Sarkisian should be fired, Arch can’t play and isn’t ready for the NFL, blah, blah, blah – it’s still the team that beat Ohio State. It lost to Oklahoma on a field goal in a wild rivalry game, and Florida stepped up in desperation mode this week. With that said … uh oh. There’s a whole lot of ugly coming up on the rest of the SEC schedule.

18. Auburn Tigers

Record: (4-2) 
Last Week Rank: 42 
Week 7: Auburn 27, Georgia 24 
Up Next: LSU
Yeah, if you beat the No. 1 team in the country in its park, you deserve a cookie. Auburn’s other loss was at Tennessee – all due respect there. The defense is playing great, and the high-voltage offense is playing smart. You’re here now, Auburn. Keep it going when Lane Kiffin’s bunch comes to town.

17. Florida Gators

Record: (5-2) 
Last Week Rank: 20 
Week 7: Florida 27, Texas 24 
Up Next: OPEN DATE
We’re giving Florida the love for beating Texas in Austin, and it was great in wins over Ole Miss and Auburn. But it’s going to be an up-and-down team the rest of the way, and we don’t forget the 21-point home loss to …

16. South Carolina Gamecocks

Record: (3-3) 
Last Week Rank: 19 
Week 7: OPEN DATE 
Up Next: Tennessee
At Alabama, Kentucky, and Mississippi State with a healthy Kamario Taylor. Those are the three losses, and that’s not bad. South Carolina is rested after the win over Florida. But that’s it for the resume so far. If this is for real, and this is a top 25 team, it beats Tennessee in Columbia this week.

15. Missouri Tigers

Record: (5-2) 
Last Week Rank: 9 
Week 7: Ole Miss 31, Missouri 3 
Up Next: OPEN DATE
Yeah, stuff got real with the trip to Oxford on Saturday. The Tigers earned this lofty spot because of the blowout wins over Florida and Texas A&M a few weeks ago, but a big-time team doesn’t lose 31-3 at Ole Miss. Not against theblah Rebel defense.

14. Mississippi State Bulldogs

Record: (4-2) 
Last Week Rank: 8 
Week 7: LSU 31, Mississippi State 0 
Up Next: Oklahoma
This is us acknowledging that quarterback Kamario Taylor is special, and it’s a different team with him. No, the Bulldogs wouldn’t have beaten LSU on Saturday with their injured star under center, but it wouldn’t have been 31-0. At Minnesota, at South Carolina, Missouri – those wins still matter.

13. Texas Tech Red Raiders

Record: (6-0) 
Last Week Rank: 17 
Week 7: Texas Tech 53, Arizona State 25 
Up Next: at Cincinnati
That’s what we were waiting for. You and a few good friends could hang big points on Arizona State right now, but after seemingly sleepwalking its way through a 5-0 start – even with a good win at Oregon State and a great one against Houston – the team wasn’t looking the part. It just did on Saturday.

12. LSU Tigers

Record: (5-2) 
Last Week Rank: 22 
Week 7: LSU 31, Mississippi State 0 
Up Next: at Auburn
Now we know how this all works with LSU. It’s 0-2 on the road against Ole Miss and Kentucky, but in Death Valley it’s a razor-sharp dominant force that plays at a whole other speed. Three of the last five games are on the road, though, going to Auburn next week.

11. Ole Miss Rebels

Record: (5-1) 
Last Week Rank: 21 
Week 7: Ole Miss 31, Missouri 3 
Up Next: at Texas
The Florida loss was a bad day that happened weeks ago. Ole Miss made up for it by ripping up Vanderbilt on the road and beating a strong Missouri team by 28. The Rebels still only have that one loss.

Oct 17, 2026; Oxford, Mississippi, USA; Mississippi Rebels running back Makhi Frazier (25) carries the ball during the second half against the Missouri Tigers at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images10. Kentucky Wildcats

Record: (6-1) 
Last Week Rank: 11 
Week 7: Kentucky 21, Oklahoma 13 
Up Next: Vanderbilt
The 45-17 loss at Alabama seems more and more like a bad day in Week 2 with a new head coach getting up to speed. Will Stein’s team was rock solid against an Oklahoma team coming off the high of the Texas win. Get used to the idea that Kentucky might be in the College Football Playoff.

9. Alabama Crimson Tide

Record: (5-2) 
Last Week Rank: 4 
Week 7: Tennessee 26, Alabama 10 
Up Next: Texas A&M
The Tide came within a few bad calls and worse weather of probably beating Georgia, and Tennessee’s great defensive front took its game up a few notches on Saturday. Bama gets one home game against a rested Texas A&M before going to LSU, and then it’s a crank-it-up-or-get-out-of-our-top-ten moment.

8. Tennessee Volunteers

Record: (6-1) 
Last Week Rank: 10 
Week 7: Tennessee 26, Alabama 10 
Up Next: at South Carolina
Tennessee is still just a final throw against Texas away from being unbeaten. Now the 24-14 win over Auburn is fabulous, and getting cigars after a 26-10 win over the Tide just took the expectations up several notches.

7. UCLA Bruins

Record: (6-0) 
Last Week Rank: 12 
Week 7: UCLA 17, Wisconsin 7 
Up Next: Michigan State
That’s a great, professional-looking Big Ten win UCLA just got over Wisconsin. It’s proving to be tough as nails in its 6-0 start, and looking ahead, going unbeaten in the regular season isn’t a crazy idea. This is a smart team that knows how to adapt on the fly.

6. Georgia Bulldogs

Record: (6-1) 
Last Week Rank: 1 
Week 7: Auburn 27, Georgia 24 
Up Next: OPEN DATE
Wow, did that Auburn loss look exactly like how Georgia might make another early exit from the College Football Playoff. It had several chances to pull that off, and couldn’t do it. Now it gets two weeks to rest up for Florida, and then a trip to Ole Miss.

5. Indiana Hoosiers

Record: (6-1) 
Last Week Rank: 6 
Week 7: Ohio State 19, Indiana 15 
Up Next: at Michigan
One foot down first. That’s all that came between Indiana and an all-time finish in a great game against Ohio State. There’s no punishing the Hoosiers for that, and if anything, it showed just how tough this team will be to get out of the tournament in a few months. (I’ve typed and texted this several times over the last 12 hours in a few different ways – it’s not like that was Rutgers on the other side of the ball.)

4. Miami Hurricanes

Record: (6-0) 
Last Week Rank: 5 
Week 7: Miami 43, Florida State 35 2OT 
Up Next: Pitt
Ehhhhhhhhhhhh, okay, fine, Florida State is always a dangerous rivalry game, and the Seminoles gave the Canes mega-problems last year, too. But we’re not going to just give away the No. 1 spot because Miami is still unbeaten and is the only team to beat Wake Forest. We still think these three teams are better, starting with …

3. Notre Dame Fighting Irish

Record: (5-1) 
Last Week Rank: 2 
Week 7: BYU 28, Notre Dame 24 
Up Next: OPEN DATE
It’s a bit too simplistic to say that Notre Dame was exposed or finally got caught playing someone great. If anything, that final drive showed a coolness to CJ Carr as he came achingly close to pulling that out of the fire. (BTW, 1) yes, there was still one second on the clock, and 2) we’re not getting into a twist over jockeying on that last pass play.)

2. BYU Cougars

Record: (6-0) 
Last Week Rank: 15 
Week 7: BYU 28, Notre Dame 24 
Up Next: at UCF
Notre Dame is just that good, and right now, it’s still the pick to at least play for the national title – and BYU is the team that took it down. Give the Cougars almost as much credit for being the one team able to get by Arizona so far.

1. Ohio State Buckeyes

Record: (6-1) 
Last Week Rank: 3 
Week 7: Ohio State 19, Indiana 15 
Up Next: OPEN DATE
It doesn’t seem like it, but no, Ohio State isn’t one of the top teams that lost on Saturday.

Our rankings aren’t predictive. We’re not going to preemptively punish Ohio State for Julian Sayin getting hurt. That’s bad, but almost as troubling is how the Buckeyes came brutally close to dropping yet another big game against a good team.

But they didn’t; they won, and they also handed Iowa its only loss, with credit given for the 31-14 win happening in Iowa City. Ohio State came within a missed field goal of beating a jacked Texas team in Austin, and it just went into Bloomington and left with a win.