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Ron Duguay, a fan favorite as a player with the New York Rangers in the 1970s and 1980s, and later an analyst on their MSG Network telecasts, died of colon cancer at age 69. A Rangers spokesperson said Thursday that Duguay’s family informed the team of his death.

On the ice, Duguay was a fast, skilled and offensivee-minded forward whose long, flowing hair made him easily identifiable. Away from the rink, he was famous for his paparazzi-and-celebrity-filled time with the Rangers. He was as tied to Studio 54 as he was Madison Square Garden during his Rangers heyday.

In 2024, Duguay was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer that he told the New York Post originated in the colon, adding that he battled the disease for more than a year, ultimately losing his appendix and gall bladder.

The New York Rangers organization mourns the loss of Ron Duguay, one of the most popular players in franchise history. Ron's signature skating style – with his hair flowing as he moved down the ice – captivated The Garden Faithful, and his skill, tenacity, and charisma earned him… pic.twitter.com/q1FzskSdN5

— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) October 22, 2026

Duguay, taken by the Rangers in the first round (No. 13 overall) of the 1977 NHL Draft, spent eight of his 13 NHL seasons with the Blueshirts. His speed and long, flowing hair (in the pre-mandatory helmet days) made him a big hit with fans at MSG — especially female Rangers rooters.

Duguay was part of team president Sonny Werblin’s efforts to make the Rangers more visible in disco-era New York of the late 1970s and early 1980s. That included joining teammates Phil Esposito, Pat Hickey, Dave Maloney and John Davidson singing “Hockey Sock Rock,” a song written by Alan Thicke that was released as a single by Platinum Records in 1979 and sold more than 100,000 copies.

He was also part of a popular commercial for Sasson Jeans.

Duguay reached the 20-goal mark in each of his first three seasons, dropped to 17 goals in an injury-shortened 1980-81 season, then had a career year in 1981-82. He scored 40 goals, finished with 76 points in 72 games, and was selected to play in the NHL All-Star Game. Also, he’s still tied for the franchise record for the fastest goal scored from the start of the game; he put the Rangers ahead 1-0 just nine seconds into their game against the Philadelphia Flyers on April, 6, 1980.

But he dropped off to 19 goals and 44 points the following season, and Rangers coach Herb Brooks butted heads with Duguay over his play and popularity in New York’s night life. In 2020, Duguay told The Athletic that he remembered Brooks pulling him aside and saying, “Hey, ‘Dugs,’ I need you more on the sports page than the gossip page.”

On June 13, 1983, the Rangers traded him to the Detroit Red Wings with forward Eddie Johnstone and goaltender Eddie Mio for defenseman Willie Huber and forwards Mike Blaisdell and Mark Osborne.

“He got his way,” Duguay told the New York Times then, referring to Brooks. “I wasn’t shocked, because there’s been so much talk about it, but I was very disappointed. … I love New York and I hate to leave there.”

Rangers fan favorite Ron Duguay dies of colon cancer at age 69

Duguay scored 33 goals and had 80 points for the Red Wings in 1983-84, then had 38 goals and a career-high 89 points in ’84-85. But Detroit traded him to the Pittsburgh Penguins on March 11, 1986. The Penguins sent him back to the Rangers on Jan. 21, 1987.

However, Duguay’s second stint with the Rangers didn’t go as well; he had 13 goals and 29 points in 82 games before the Blueshirts dealt him to the Los Angeles Kings for defenseman Mark Hardy on Feb. 23, 1988. His NHL career ended after he had seven goals and 24 points for the Kings in 1988-89.

He finished with 274 goals and 620 points in 864 regular-season NHL games, as well as 31 goals and 53 points in 89 Stanley Cup Playoff games. He helped the Rangers reach the Stanley Cup Final in 1979, when they lost to the Montreal Canadiens in five games.

But Duguay wasn’t ready to hang up his skates. He played one season in Germany’s DEL, pieces of five seasons with San Diego in the International Hockey League and West Coast Hockey League, and one game as a 41-year-old for the Jacksonville Lizard Kings of the ECHL in 1998-99. He was a player and coach for three seasons with the Jacksonville Barracudas, first in the Atlantic Coast Hockey League and then in the Southern Hockey League until resigning in 2006.

One year later, he joined MSG Network as an analyst on Rangers telecasts, a role Duguay held until he was let go in 2018. He also skated for the Rangers in the Alumni Game at the 2012 NHL Winter Classic. On Dec. 13, he took part in a Centennial Night celebration at Madison Square Garden, part of the Rangers’ 100th anniversary season.

Wonderful evening last night being will fellow being honored @NYRangers@NYR_PRpic.twitter.com/FT5hh68bu2

— Ron Duguay (@RonDuguay10) December 14, 2025

Duguay’s family announced two years ago that he was diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer. His daughters created a GoFundMe page to help cover expenses for his “medical, holistic, and travel costs required for his cancer care.”

In February, Duguay told the New York Post, after being contacted by Page Six, that “I find it extremely hard asking for funds for all these costs I’m going through. Normally I’m helping others.”

Duguay is survived by his two daughters Shay Thomas and Amber Stavros, and his son, Noah Duguay, as well as his five grandchildren Aiden, Jayden, Cole, Nora and Ranger.

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Read more at Forever Blueshirts

CF Montréal interim coach Philippe Eullaffroy insisted his relationship with Alexis Sánchez isn't broken after the forward angrily confronted the team's coaching staff during a Canadian Championship final loss to Forge FC on Wednesday, Oct. 21.

Sánchez was visibly upset with the coaching staff after warming up for more than an hour, only to not enter the match as a substitute.

The match ended 1-1 after 120 minutes, with Forge FC winning 4-2 on penalty kicks to secure the Canadian title in a major upset at Stade Saputo in Montréal. Forge became the first Canadian Premier League team to win the tournament.

Montréal went down to 10 men in the 54th minute when Brayan Vera was shown a second yellow card for simulation. Eullaffroy said after the game that playing with a man disadvantage made it a "challenge" to put Sánchez in the game.

Eullaffroy brought on two attacking players in the 81st minute, and made another sub in the 111th minute. But the Chilean Designated Player was still on the bench at the final whistle.

The Montréal coach said he tried to get Sánchez on before the end of extra time but didn't get the chance.

"We took the time to discuss with everyone involved, to figure out how we could bring [Sánchez] on in the best possible conditions," Eullaffroy said. "There were absolutely no stoppages in play during the second period of extra time."

Footage shows Sanchez angrily confronting Montréal's coaching staff after warming up. Eullaffroy was asked after the match if his relationship with the 37-year-old is broken.

“It isn't broken. Well, I don't think so. Not on my side, at least," Eullaffroy said.

Sánchez signed a two-year contract with Montréal in August, joining as a Designated Player. He has made 13 total appearances for the club and has yet to score or assist.

The Chile international made his name during a decorated career in Europe, which included stops at Barcelona, Arsenal, Manchester United, Inter and Marseille. 

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Alexis Sánchez clashes with CF Montréal coaches after snub

You don't need a telescope to spot the biggest NFL betting trends storyline of the 2026 season. Just ask an underdog bettor how things are going, and their ear-to-ear grin will say it all.

Put aside a trio of point-spread pushes, and underdogs are cashing at a 56.7% rate (51-39-3 ATS) for the season, including 62% since Week 3 (36-22-3 ATS). In Week 6 alone, underdogs went 9-5 ATS with six outright victories.

And the bigger the 'dogs, the louder the bark. Teams catching six points or more are just 9-21 between the lines but 19-8-3 on the betting scoreboard (70.4%). 

Then there are the prime-time NFL betting trends that defy logic: Under the lights, underdogs are 12-7 SU and 15-4 ATS overall, including 10-2 SU and 11-1 ATS since Week 3.

Given these numbers, it's not surprising that there are strong "buy" signs on every underdog in my NFL betting trends breakdown of four marquee matchups for Week 7. Not the least of which is an underdog that is unbeaten on the season, nearly unbeatable when catching points and playing in prime time.

Bengals at Ravens (-2.5, 50.5)

Moneyline: Bengals +125/Ravens -150

• Cincinnati entered its Week 6 bye off a 31-24 victory at Miami, pushing as a seven-point road favorite.

The Bengals had previously suffered consecutive upset losses to the Steelers on the road (30-27) and Jaguars at home (22-17). They haven't covered the spread since routing the Texans 20-6 as a 3-point underdog in Week 2.

With that win in Houston, Cincinnati improved to 4-1 ATS in its last five when catching points.

• With starting quarterback Lamar Jackson sidelined for a second straight game, the Ravens went to Cleveland last week as a three-point road favorite and blew a 10-0 second-half lead, losing 13-10 on a final-play field goal.

Since pummeling the Colts 41-23 as a three-point road favorite in Week 1, Baltimore is 1-4 ATS (0-4 ATS as a favorite).

In fact, the Ravens come into this contest looking to reverse this negative NFL betting trend: Since Week 11 of 2025, they're 2-9 ATS as a favorite with five outright losses.

Baltimore has won five of six meetings against the Bengals since the start of the 2023 season (4-2 ATS).

Also, in games when Jackson and Joe Burrow both start, the Ravens are 7-2 SU and 5-4 ATS overall. However, Jackson is just 4-2 SU and 2-4 ATS versus Burrow in Baltimore (all as a favorite).

• Both of last year's Bengals-Ravens meetings fell short of the total. Prior to that, though, the over had cashed in seven of eight clashes, with six games topping 50 combined points.

The last time the under hit in three straight games in this rivalry? You have to go back to late 2016/early 2017, a stretch of 17 consecutive meetings.

Rams (-4.5, 48.5) at Raiders

Moneyline: Rams -210/Raiders +175

• Los Angeles followed a 37-34 overtime home loss to Buffalo in the Week 5 Monday Night Football game with a stunning 18-16 loss to the Cardinals as a 12.5-point home favorite. It was the biggest upset of the NFL season.

The Rams (2-4 SU and ATS) haven't endured a three-game losing skid since Weeks 7-9 of 2023. 

L.A.'s last 0-3 ATS slide was from Weeks 4-7 of 2024 (including a Week 6 bye). The final non-cover of that stretch was a 20-15 home win over the Raiders as a seven-point favorite.

• Since a surprising 4-0 start, Las Vegas has now dropped three in a row, the latest a 33-30 Week 6 home loss to Buffalo.

However, the Raiders scored a late touchdown to cover the 5.5-point spread and are now an NFL-best 5-1 ATS. Going back to last season, Las Vegas sports these positive NFL betting trends: 8-3 ATS overall, 5-1 ATS at home and 7-3 ATS as an underdog.

• The Rams came into this season having won and covered seven straight games against AFC opponents. However, they've come up empty against the AFC this year, having preceded the overtime loss to Buffalo with a 30-26 setback at Denver.

Meanwhile, Las Vegas went 0-5 SU/ATS against the NFC in 2025. That slide ended in Week 3 with a 35-27 upset win at New Orleans as a four-point underdog.

• Prior to covering the spread in their 2024 loss at Los Angeles, the Raiders had been 0-6 ATS against the Rams this century.

On the bright side for Las Vegas, underdogs of four-plus points this season are 25-14-3 ATS.

• Nine of the Rams' 10 true road games since the start of last year have cleared the closing total, including the last seven in a row. Eight of those contests eclipsed 50 points.

Also, the Raiders and their opponents have hurdled 50 combined points in four straight overall, and the over is on a 6-3 roll at Allegiant Stadium.

Packers at Lions (-3, 53.5)

Moneyline: Packers +145/Lions -175

• The Packers won and covered their third consecutive game in Week 6, pounding the Cowboys 23-13 as a 1.5-point home underdog on Sunday Night Football.

Green Bay has surrendered a total of 34 points during its winning streak — one fewer than it allowed in a 35-14 home loss to Atlanta in Week 3.

Prior to their current heater, the Packers had been mired in slumps of 1-6 on the field and 3-13-2 ATS. They have gone 25 consecutive games since their last 3-0 ATS win streak.

• Detroit cruised into its Week 6 bye with a 45-21 beatdown of the Cardinals as a five-point road favorite. It was the team's first spread cover of 2026 after an 0-4-1 ATS start.

The Lions, who have alternated wins and losses this season, haven't won back-to-back games since they followed a 27-13 at Green Bay in last year's opener with a four-game winning streak.

• Despite its blowout of Arizona, Detroit remains mired in point-spread slumps of 4-11-1 overall, 1-5-1 at home, 3-7-1 as a favorite and 1-3 versus the NFC North.

Also, the Lions were swept by Green Bay last season and have failed to cover in three straight meetings and four of the last five.

Another NFL betting trend working against Detroit in this rivalry: The underdog is on a 10-5 ATS run, including six outright victories.

• The over has hit in all five Lions games this season. Combined points in those contests: 61, 72, 55, 58 and 66.

Furthermore, the over is 24-11-1 in Detroit's last 35 overall, including 14-4 at Ford Field (one playoff game included). 

During this span, the Lions and their opponents have combined for more than 53 points a whopping 22 times overall and 11 times at home.

Chiefs at Seahawks (-2.5, 42.5)

Moneyline: Chiefs +120/Seahawks -145

• Kansas City is off to a 5-0 start for the second time in the last three seasons, but just the third time in the Patrick Mahomes era (since 2018).

Last week, the Chiefs emerged from their bye and smothered the winless Chargers 22-6, easily cashing as a 7.5-point home favorite. Despite its unblemished record on the field, K.C. has alternated ATS wins and losses this season.

• Since beginning the season with consecutive wins over the Patriots at home and Cardinals on the road, Seattle has dropped three of four by a total of eight points.

Fresh off a 32-29 home loss to San Francisco, the Seahawks traveled to Denver in Week 6 and fell 17-14 in overtime on Thursday Night Football.

The defending Super Bowl champs are looking to avoid their first three-game SU skid since Weeks 4-6 of 2024 (a span of 34 contests). Seattle hasn't had an 0-4 ATS drought since failing to cover in its final four games in 2024.

• With the Chiefs catching points for the first time in 2026, this NFL betting trend is in play: With Mahomes under center, the Chiefs are 12-4 SU and 12-3-1 ATS as an underdog (including four postseason games).

Also, since the 2024 season kicked off, Mahomes and the Chiefs have only lost twice in 10 games against the NFC — both were to the Eagles (Week 2 of 2025 and in Super Bowl 59 the previous year).

• As with the point spread, the total has alternated in each of Kansas City's first five games, but the under has hit in nine of the Chiefs' last 12 true road outings. Eight of the nine that stayed low featured fewer than 42 points.

Conversely, including two playoff contests, the over is 9-3 in Seattle's last dozen home games. All nine topped 45 total points.

Former Wisconsin Badger JJ Watt is the new lead analyst for the NFL ON CBS, the network announced on Thursday morning.

“I’ve had a front-row seat to JJ’s growth as a top-tier broadcaster, watching him tackle this role just like he did his hall-of-fame playing career,” said David Berson, Chairman of Global Sports Group, Skydance. “He’s insightful, entertaining, passionate, meticulous in his preparation, and the ultimate teammate. He has a unique ability to see things and communicate to fans of all levels. We are thrilled to have him leading our NFL coverage.”

The new contract will keep him with Jim Nantz and Tracy Wolfson as their top announcing crew, with the trio set to call Super Bowl LXII next year in Atlanta.

“I am incredibly honored and grateful to have the opportunity to represent CBS Sports and all of the fantastic people who make this place so special,” said Watt. “From the brotherhood of THE NFL TODAY to my crews calling games, I couldn’t ask for better teammates alongside me on this television journey. I am thankful to David Berson for his leadership, vision and trust. I love this job and can’t wait to see ya Sunday with Jim and Tracy and many more Sundays to come!”

Watt, who played for the Houston Texans from 2011-20 and the Arizona Cardinals from 2021-22, joined the company in 2023 as a studio analyst. He started calling games last season before being promoted to their top team at the start of the 2026 season, replacing Tony Romo.

Contact/Follow @TheBadgersWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Wisconsin Badgers news, notes and opinions.

This article originally appeared on Badgers Wire: JJ Watt named lead NFL analyst for CBS Sports

The college sports industry now has a dedicated Super PAC.

The newly-formed PAC, called the College Sports United PAC, was created to ensure the current version of the Protect College Sports Act passes the House of Representatives without amendments, Alex Fulton, who runs the organization, told Front Office Sports. It’s believed to be the first and only Super PAC created to advocate specifically for college sports issues. 

“Our goal is to make sure that all of the [House] members understand the importance of this bill—and of this matter,” Fulton said, who added he thought the bill would provide a “framework” for the future of college sports.

Fulton has a background in both politics and college sports. He currently serves as SVP of government public strategy firm Mercury Public Affairs’ California office in Sacramento, and previously founded Game Day Media, which helps schools with both revenue-sharing and NIL (name, image, and likeness) deals.

After recent conversations with university donors and athletic directors, Fulton decided to launch the PAC to ensure the Protect College Sports Act in its current form—without amendments—passes the House of Representatives. (If the House decides to amend the bill, it would have to return to the Senate for another vote, potentially slowing down the bill which must reach President Donald Trump’s desk before the new Congress is sworn in in January.) The organization registered with the Federal Election Commission as a super PAC on Sept. 22, according to an FEC filing.

The College Sports United PAC plans to specifically target House members who have come out against the legislation publicly. (A Super PAC can raise and spend unlimited funds for political advertising.) Through advertising, direct voter contact, and other means, the organization intends to convince lawmakers  to reverse course and support the bill.

“Our goal is to ensure that the constituents in their districts understand the ramifications of their bad stances,” Fulton said. “We are going to go to the constituents directly to apply pressure to ensure that the voters know exactly why it is important that this bill passes the House.”

Fulton described individuals who have encouraged the formation of the PAC as “smaller Division I institutions’ boosters and donors,” adding: “Essentially, all the donors that we’re talking to in these smaller schools have been very, very vocal [about] having their seat for the university at the table.” He declined to name specific donors, though their names and contributions will become public once donation records have been filed with the FEC.

The PAC has not yet reported any donations, largely because it was only launched a month ago. However, it has received a “good amount” of pledges, and expects to collect its first funds by the end of this week, Fulton said. 

While the group is the first Super PAC focused on college sports, it’s hardly the only financial levers being pulled to lobby for or against the Protect College Sports Act. 

Texas Tech university board chairman, Trump advisor and PCSA advocate Cody Campbell founded a 501(c)(4) called Saving College Sports in 2025. Funded by multiple donors, the group has disclosed tens of thousands of dollars in lobbying disclosures, and has spent about $10 million on a nationwide advertising campaign pushing the legislation, FOS previously reported. (Though Fulton praised the work of Campbell and members of his coalition, he said the College Sports United PAC is “separate” from this group.)

In addition, the NCAA and power conferences, as well as individual universities, have spent millions lobbying on Capitol Hill. A coalition of civil rights groups, labor groups, and player advocacy organizations have lobbied against the legislation, with public campaigns of their own.

The House is expected to take up the PCSA when it returns in November after the midterm elections, though a timeline for if or when the group will vote on the legislation remains unclear.

The post Supporters of College Sports Bill Launch Super PAC appeared first on Front Office Sports.

PHILADELPHIA, PA - SEPTEMBER 14: Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni has words with field judge/side judge Greg Gautreaux #80 during the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on September 14, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Welcome to The Linc, the daily Philadelphia Eagles links roundup at Bleeding Green Nation!

Funny enough, the Eagles have actually had the most favorable whistle in the NFL this season in terms of net penalty yards (third-most beneficiary yards, 12th-fewest against yards). So, it’s not like Nick Sirianni has been on the bad side of the refs to a point where it’s hurting the team. But I’m sure he would like to get that fine wiped away.

Let’s get to the Philadelphia Eagles news and links …

Sources: Nick Sirianni, Mike Vrabel among coaches fined for conduct toward refs – ESPN

The NFL fined Philadelphia Eagles coach Nick Sirianni $250,000 for conduct toward game officials, a source confirmed to ESPN on Wednesday night. New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel was fined the same amount for similar conduct, a league source confirmed to ESPN’s Mike Reiss. New York Jets coach Aaron Glenn also was fined $250,000, according to Sports Illustrated, which first reported the fines. The fines are temporarily on hold and can be repealed with good behavior, the source confirmed to ESPN, as the league tries to make a point to all coaches about their treatment of officials. It wasn’t immediately known when the fines were handed down or from what specific incidents they stemmed.

Eagles Film Analysis: Can empty formations help solve the offense’s pressure problems? – BGN

Empty won’t magically fix the Eagles’ protection, but the numbers give them an obvious place to start. Spread things out, build in clear answers, and give McKee and the rest of the offense a chance to find some rhythm. The stats do not lie. The frustrating part is how straightforward this is to identify through basic self-scouting.

Mina Kimes On Jalen Hurts Saga, Whether Eagles Can Compete With Tanner McKee At QB – PHLY Eagles Podcast

ESPN’s Mina Kimes joins the PHLY Eagles podcast with Bo Wulf and Brandon Lee Gowton to discuss the latest developments as Jalen Hurts sits on injured reserve with his future in the balance thanks to blood clots in his lungs. While we wish for the best for Hurts, the Eagles hand the ball to Tanner McKee, hoping to turn around what has been the worst offense in football this season. Does Sean Mannion have what it takes to design a new offense on the fly?

Sean Mannion remains Eagles’ play-caller. Can his offense work with Tanner McKee? – The Athletic

Eagles coach Nick Sirianni said “everything is on the table” to fix the offense. That will not include a change at play-caller — Sirianni said Mannion will remain in that role — nor changes to the coaching staff. It remains to be seen what will be different. Mannion made it sound as if the approach is no different than any other week, and that the search for answers isn’t any more pronounced on a four-game losing streak. “I think you look at a lot of the things that we need to improve, and I think they’re totally fixable,” Mannion said. “It’s a double-edged sword, right? You look at that, and you can get frustrated by it. You can also look at that and put a silver lining on it and say, ‘Man, if we just handle our simple stuff, we’re going to yield a better result.’” If it happens, it must happen with McKee. But it won’t be without Hurts’ presence. Mannion said Hurts has “been around.” He expects Hurts to be a resource for McKee this season. “He’s got a ton of starts in this league, especially going against a slate of division opponents coming up,” Mannion said of Hurts. “He’s played against these guys a bunch. I know Tanner’s been around for that, too, but I think the insight that you have from being on the field is so valuable. … It’s just the game experience and the insight of playing specifically these upcoming opponents. I think Jalen will be able to give Tanner some great help there.”

Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester seeks answers from Roger Goodell regarding the Jalen Hurts situation – PFT

Someone also should ask whether the league will implement a protocol for blood clots and other potentially serious health conditions, similar to the procedures utilized for diagnosing concussions and clearing players to return to play. The league has used an unaffiliated neurotrauma consultant in such situations for 17 years, in order to counter the inherent biases of doctors hired by the various teams. The NFL Players Association has requested a full investigation. Under the Collective Bargaining Agreement, it has the absolute right to initiate one. Congress, through its oversight powers as to an industry that enjoys a federal broadcast antitrust exemption, also has the ability to investigate. Given the league’s effort to sweep this one under the rug and move on, anyone with the power to force the NFL to answer for the Hurts situation absolutely should.

Philly fans are expressing love for Jalen Hurts through various get-well cards: ‘Everybody has Jalen’s back and supports him’ – Inquirer

“Next day, got the text, ‘Jalen’s got the card and he’s very thankful,’” Petrilli said. “That’s what we do at Club Hurts. We bring people together, and we have QB1’s back.’ The card was delivered to Hurts before fans knew the extent of his injury. Now, with the quarterback likely missing the rest of the season after blood clots were found in his lungs, Petrilli hopes to continue to support the Super Bowl LIX MVP from the sideline. “We should be counting out blessings a little bit that we’ve had a guy like this in our lives for the last five, six years,” Petrilli said. “He’s been consistently winning football games for us, let alone just being the great person that he is in the community here. “Hopefully, he doesn’t really let this rub him the wrong way with the franchise, and he can keep being a part of the community here because he’s done so many great things. We want to keep helping those things that Jalen’s been pushing with his own charity aspects and just keep bringing the positivity that Jalen does in this city.”

What’s going on with Cooper DeJean’s tackling issues? – NBCSP

Throughout the first two seasons of his NFL career, Eagles defensive back Cooper DeJean was such a sure tackler. That hasn’t been the case this year. So what gives? “I don’t know,” DeJean said after the loss to the Panthers on Sunday afternoon. “I just have to find ways to get guys down. Part of it is different angles and where I’m hitting the guys. But I have no doubt that I’m going to continue to work on that and fix that. I’ve continued to work on it the last couple of weeks especially and will continue to, to be better in that area.” Missed tackles aren’t an official stat and they’re subjective. So there’s no official tally of how many missed tackles DeJean has this season. But by all accounts, he’s among the league leaders. According to ProFootballFocus, DeJean leads the NFL with 12 missed tackles this season. And among 82 defensive backs with at least 300 snaps, he’s at the very top of the list. His missed tackle rate of 24.5% is the third-worst among that group behind just Tre’Von Moehrig (30.8%) and C.J. Gardner-Johnson (25.7%).

2026 NFL offensive line rankings: Lions retain top spot, Browns ascend – PFF

18) PHILADELPHIA EAGLES. This Eagles offensive line is down three starters from the start of the season, and there were plenty of concerns coming out of Sunday’s loss to the Carolina Panthers. On the plus side, Jordan Mailata and Markel Bell didn’t allow any pressures from 52 pass-blocking snaps, and the same was true of Willie Lampkin at left guard. Center Jake Majors struggled again, though, yielding four pressures for the second straight week. On top of that, the group as a whole had trouble getting much going on the ground, with the Eagles averaging just 2.7 yards per carry.

Game Review – CAR 25, PHI 14 – Iggles Blitz

OFFENSIVE LINE — Not a good showing. This group was starting their second game in a row, but there were times you’d have thought they never met. There was way too much confusion on who to block. Some of that may go to the communication McKee mentioned, but there were too many plays with confusion. Some of that is on the scheme. Some is on coaching. Some is on the players just not being on the same page. They are not seeing things the same way and that leads to blown assignments. Willie Lampkin made his second start and was solid. There are times when he gets physically overwhelmed, but I love his effort and tenacity. He blocks to the whistle. He hustles downfield to help his teammates up. If you could put his intangibles in Tyler Steen’s body, you’d have one hell of a blocker. Jake Majors got the start at center and struggled. He showed real promise in London, but wasn’t nearly as good this time out. He got overpowered at times. He also struggled with quick moves. Markel Bell had a solid showing.

The Best Bets of NFL Week 7 – The Ringer

No matter how bad the Dallas defense is, the Eagles have the worst offense in the NFL by my power ratings right now. Maybe they’ll ditch the under-center looks and try to go more shotgun spread to salvage the offense, but I doubt it. This season is quickly spiraling for Philadelphia, and we have not hit the bottom yet. Bet: Dallas -4.5 (-110)

Jordan Mailata: There is ‘so much opportunity for our young guys’ – PhiladelphiaEagles.com

The phrase “next man up” has been the story of the season for the Eagles, particularly for Mailata’s offensive line. Guard Landon Dickerson was placed on Injured Reserve just after Week 1, future Hall of Fame right tackle Lane Johnson retired before taking part in Week 4’s matchup against the Rams, and longtime center Cam Jurgens was traded to the Ravens before Week 5. “As much adversity as we’ve handled, it also has created so much opportunity for our young guys. And so that’s what I keep focusing on,” Mailata said. “Our room might be the most perfect example of the next man up. Look at who we have right now.” Second-year interior offensive linemen Drew Kendall and Willie Lampkin entered the starting lineup in the absence of Dickerson and Jurgens. When Johnson retired, rookie third-round draft pick Markel Bell became the starter at right tackle. A fifth-round draft pick by the Eagles in 2025, Kendall started three games at center before suffering a knee injury against the Rams. This opened an opportunity for second-year center Jake Majors, who was signed from the practice squad and started against the Jaguars and Panthers. “There are things I can control – My emotions, my direction, and how I lead this team,” Mailata said. “Pouring into Tanner McKee, pouring into Willie Lampkin, pouring into Jake Majors, Markel Bell, that’s all I think about.”

Is starting J.J. McCarthy the right choice? BBV staff weighs in – Big Blue View

Valentine’s View — It feels like the move to McCarthy was inevitable since the Giants surrendered a fifth-round draft pick to acquire him. In an ideal world, Harbaugh might have waited until after the BYE week to make this move. Then again, the Giants have not been living in an ideal world since the moment Jaxson Dart was lost for the season. Fact is, the Giants have been in survival mode. They are going to be in survival mode all season, doing the best they can with backup quarterbacks they did not plan on playing. McCarthy is not Dart. He does, though, give the Giants the opportunity to be the offense they want to be rather than the offense they have to be with Winston. There is more upside there, though nobody knows if McCarthy will be better or worse than Winston has been. It is still going to be a wild ride. I get it, though.

CB Paulson Adebo designated for return; OL Josh Sills signed to active roster – New York Giants

[Former Eagles] Offensive lineman Josh Sills, who has appeared in 21 career games over three seasons, was also signed to the active roster from the Colts’ practice squad.

Cowboys trade rumor: Dallas linked to Cardinals pass rusher Josh Sweat – Blogging The Boys

The Dallas Cowboys are being connected to yet another trade rumor. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler mentioned on Wednesday that the Cowboys could be interested in Arizona Cardinals pass rusher Josh Sweat. It is worth mentioning that Dallas hosts Arizona next Sunday afternoon.

Commanders QB Jayden Daniels is back, but will it matter in 2026? – Hogs Haven

Right now, there does seem to be a disconnect when it comes to head coach, the offensive coordinator, and the quarterback. Blough has never been an OC before, and while he appears to have a pretty decent playbook, there’s the time it takes to learn what’s best for your quarterback and how to sequence plays for your entire offense. Blough certainly knows Daniels from his time as the team’s assistant quarterbacks coach in 2024 and 2025, but it’s different when you’re in charge of the whole thing. So, it could well be that the 2026 season will be more about ironing out all the schisms, and less about Daniels letting it fly as he reclaims his powers after the injuries in 2025 and 2026 that held him back. That he does have those powers back is exciting. How they’ll be utilized, however, is still a very large question mark. And at 1-4-1 with a Week 7 bye, the Commanders don’t have time to raise more questions. That extra time should (and must) be spent finding answers.

Disney’s Star Wars Super Bowl should be between these teams – SB Nation

Super Bowl LXI marks the first time that the Disney family of networks will be broadcasting the big game, and that means endless opportunities for synergy and cross-promotional branding (get hyped). We’ve seen various experiments in alternate broadcasts over the years, notably with ManningCast for Monday Night Football, and Nickelodeon versions on Paramount+, but Disney is taking it a step further with the announcement that the Super Bowl itself will be broadcast with an alternate Star Wars stream.

…

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The New York Jets are trying to establish a new identity, and two of the team's most important offensive leaders believe the foundation starts with the locker room. Garrett Wilson and Geno Smith have offered similar assessments of the group, pointing to a shared mentality that could help the Jets take a step forward.

Wilson was asked what feels different about this year's team compared to last season. Although he acknowledged his personal bias, the wide receiver had no shortage of praise for his teammates, describing the group as one of the best environments he has experienced.

"Just the group that we have. This is one of the better rooms I've been a part of. Everybody in that room's got a killer mindset."

Watch Wilson's full comments.

Garrett Wilson was asked about what's different about the Jets this year compared to last

"Just the group that we have. This is one of the better rooms I've been a part of. Everybody in that room's got a killer mindset" pic.twitter.com/2EtxsFCZLv

— SNY Jets (@snyjets) October 21, 2026

That assessment speaks to more than the talent in the building. Wilson's emphasis on the collective mindset suggests he sees a group that is invested in competing and holding itself to a high standard. For a team looking to change its fortunes, that kind of internal belief can be an important starting point, even if it still needs to translate into consistent results on the field.

Smith echoed Wilson's perspective, thanked his teammates, and suggested the Jets are on the cusp of developing a winning mentality. The quarterback's comments reinforced the idea that the team's progress depends on more than individual performances; it also requires a shared commitment to the same objective.

"I know what it takes to build that winning mentality withhin your locker room and I think we're right at the cusp of it. ... we understand the urgency and we're taking ownership of it" pic.twitter.com/NosurQ5vZn

— New York Jets (@nyjets) October 21, 2026

The alignment between Wilson and Smith is encouraging for a team trying to build something sustainable. Their praise does not guarantee the Jets will win more games, but it points to a belief that the locker room has the ingredients to improve.

Ultimately, the next step is turning that mentality into results. If the Jets can carry the competitive edge Wilson described into Sundays and pair it with the consistency Smith believes is within reach, their confidence in the group could become more than offseason optimism.

This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: Garrett Wilson, Geno Smith see Jets building a winning culture

We’re on to Week 7 of the fantasy season! As we look for every advantage this season, the X-factor position is the FLEX. To break it all down, analyst Joel Smyth goes through 8 players in the consensus rankings flex zone for your flexes, double flexes, or even third WR slots.

​Set & ForgetWoody Marks vs. NYG

After David Montgomery went down with an injury, Marks became the RB1 in Houston, handling 15 carries but sharing work with Jawhar Jordan. The Texans reserve RB got seven touches and was the one who ended up getting the touchdown, but now he is also out for this game with injury. It’s just Dare Ogunbowale left, a passing-down back, to pair with Woody Marks against the Giants.

New York is bottom-five against rushing fantasy points this season and can balance out the Texans’ poor run-blocking offensive line. Near-guaranteed volume is hard to find and makes Marks a set it and forget it play in a matchup where red-zone trips could be in abundance if the Texans defense causes chaos versus J.J. McCarthy.

Steelers WRs vs. NO​

DK Metcalf and Germie Bernard combined for 27 targets in Week 6 with a plethora of receivers injured. Next up is the New Orleans Saints, which should give an opportunity for another PPR scam day. The Saints play fast and pass heavy, giving plenty of time to opposing offenses versus a struggling defense. Aaron Rodgers was one of the few quarterbacks last season who was better versus zone coverage than man when it came to raw fantasy points, specifically benefiting Metcalf rather than him being defended man-to-man.

With limited options to go to, I like the opportunity for lots of receptions for each WR once more.

Flex StartTyler Higbee vs. LV

Davante Adams is a touchdown machine, so what happens when he’s out? Well, last season, the Rams TEs stepped up, scoring five touchdowns in his three-game absence. Higbee has been the main man so far with Terrance Ferguson out, Colby Parkinson coming back from injury and Davis Allen as more of a blocker than a receiving threat. Higbee’s route share has been consistently high and will give him an amazing shot at getting into the end zone if the Rams play out of their 13 personnel look (3 TE, 1 WR) a heavy amount without Adams available.

Double Flex StartsOmar Cooper Jr vs. MIA

The rookie came onto the scene in style, scoring a touchdown (with another called back) and gaining 100+ receiving yards. With Adonai Mitchell sidelined, the slot receiver stayed on the field in two-receiver sets, playing across from Garrett Wilson. The Jets offense has struggled at times this season and looks to get back against a defense that has only slowed down a Vikings team without Justin Jefferson. The combination of Cooper’s yards-after-the-catch ability with his short targets gives him a nice floor/ceiling balance for a double flex.

Malik Washington vs. NYJ

On the other side of this matchup, Malik Washington fares nicely as well. He’ll get some carries, some screens and will match up most in the downfield passing game against the Jets slot corner, Jarvis Brownlee Jr., who has ranked inside the bottom five in fantasy points allowed to receivers.

New York has been way better than average versus outside receivers, -6.4 PPG below average to be exact, while failing to slow down the slot. In PPR leagues, Washington’s been a steady play for deeper leagues, scoring 11.1-12.1 fantasy points in three straight weeks.

Booby TrapsJosh Downs vs. MIN​

Downs has been … disappointing. His shot was last week, versus a Titans defense that was a great coverage matchup while TE Tyler Warren was out. If Warren is in, Indianapolis goes to more two-TE formations, pushing Josh Downs outside where his production has declined. Believe it or not, when Keenan Allen is on the field, Downs’ target share has jumped up 6% with him being able to go back inside to the slot. Either way, Minnesota’s defense puts him in a rough spot this week.

Daniel Jones under pressure has not been a pretty sight this season and not something I want to bank on working out for a Downs bounce-back game.

RJ Harvey vs. ARI

Ever since Sean Payton took over playcalling, it’s been hard for Harvey to find touches, and now rookie Jonah Coleman returns on Sunday. Over the last two weeks, Harvey’s been limited to three touches and nine touches, respectively, only being saved by a one-yard TD in Week 6. The matchup is a positive and gives Denver a better chance at rebounding following a very slow start to the season.

A stat that shouldn’t be true but is…

The Nathaniel Hackett - Russell Wilson offense of 2022 averaged 73 more yds per game than this Sean Payton - Bo Nix led offense. Also separated by just 2 pts per game.

Sean called 2022 “one of worst coaching jobs in the history of the NFL”

— Zach Bye (@byesline) October 21, 2026

Bo Nix has checked it down plenty this season to help Harvey, but with the Cardinals defense surrendering the highest average depth of target in the league, it could get Nix to push the ball down the field, lowering Harvey’s floor even more.

The New York Giants head on the road in Week 7 to face the Houston Texans as they look to get back in the win column before the bye week.

New York enters with an 0-1-1 record over its last two games and hopes to pick up a victory after coming up short recently. The Texans, meanwhile, aim to extend their winning streak after back-to-back wins following an 0-4 start.

Earlier this week, the Giants opened as significant two-possession road underdogs for Sunday's matchup. With the teams set to face off at Reliant Stadium, here are three causes for concern heading into the game.

The Texans are hot

After consecutive wins, including last week's victory over the AFC South-leading Jacksonville Jaguars, Houston brings plenty of confidence into the matchup. While the Texans started 0-4, they have scored at least 26 points in four of their six games this season.

With Houston winning its last two and the Giants going 0-1-1 over the same stretch, momentum could be a factor.

Ball security

Last week, the Giants nearly pulled off a dramatic comeback despite losing the turnover battle 4-1. Turnovers have been a persistent issue for New York all season. The Giants have 11 turnovers, tied for sixth-most in the league.

The Texans, by contrast, have just three turnovers and protect the ball well. C.J. Stroud has thrown only one interception this year and rarely puts the ball in danger.

It will be tough for the Giants to win the turnover battle on Sunday, particularly if their offense and special teams fail to take care of the ball.

Struggling ground attack

The Giants are coming off a game in which they struggled to run the ball, and Cam Skattebo did not receive a single touch. They also had difficulty against a New Orleans Saints defense that ranks in the bottom third of the league against the run.

Houston presents a much tougher challenge on the ground. The Texans rank among the better run defenses in the NFL, third in both rushing yards allowed per game and yards per carry.

The running backs are not the only concern. The offensive line is banged up and has not been playing well. The Giants' ability to establish balance and run the ball effectively on Sunday is a major concern.

This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: New York Giants vs. Houston Texans: 3 causes for concern in Week 7

With the NFC wide open, the 5-0 Minnesota Vikings could look to add players who can help the roster win now ahead of next month's trade deadline. They currently hold four picks in the first three rounds of next year's draft, thanks to the Jonathan Greenard trade last April that included a 2027 3rd-round pick.

That could give Minnesota ammunition to acquire a talented player from a team that is looking to ship players off. The Indianapolis Colts, who fired GM Chris Ballard on Monday, and the Philadelphia Eagles, who may be without Jalen Hurts for the rest of the season, are two teams that could look to be "sellers."

Moe Moton of Bleacher Report believes the Vikings could be "buyers". They sit in first place in the competitive NFC North, but they face a tough stretch over the next month, including games against the Detroit Lions, Buffalo Bills, Green Bay Packers, and San Francisco 49ers. They also face pressure to keep pace with the 49ers, who sit at 6-0 entering Week 7.

"Minnesota is the least likely unbeaten team because of inconsistent quarterback play," Moton wrote. "Kyler Murray missed a game while in concussion protocol, and even when healthy, he's posted modest numbers in two of three full starts.

"The Vikings could shake up their wide receiver room by adding and/or subtracting players to help Murray improve."

Moton suggests that Minnesota is trying to trade for Jauan Jennings, who was rumored to be shopped over the Vikings' bye week. But with Jennings, who has only two receptions for nine yards this year, still on the team, it's hard to envision a trade after Minnesota may have been best off trying to move him during its off week.

Still, plenty of players are available for the Vikings to target, and they have the requisite draft capital to make a move if they see value. Colts guard Quenton Nelson's name has been floated around, as have running back Jonathan Taylor and Eagles halfback Saquon Barkley.

There is still time to make moves, as the deadline is November 10. But if Minnesota continues winning and sees itself as a player or two away from a legitimate postseason run, they may make a big swing for a high-impact player.

This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: Analyst believes the Vikings will be active at the trade deadline

How much Real Madrid must pay to re-sign Nico Paz from Como

Como paid €60m to retain Nico Paz last summer, but Real Madrid still has an option to re-buy the Argentine for €80m.

Argentine talent Nico Paz has made headlines with a scintillating performance in Como’s 4-1 win over Manchester United in the Champions League.

ITALY – OCTOBER 21: Nico Paz of Como 1907 is challenged by Andrey Santos of Manchester United during the UEFA Champions League 2026/27 League Phase MD3 match between Como 1907 and Manchester United at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on October 21, 2026 in Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Paz scored two goals and provided one assist against the Red Devils, bringing his tally to four goals and five assists in 10 appearances across all competitions.

This is his third season at Como, as he joined the Serie A side on a permanent deal from Real Madrid in the summer of 2024.

The Merengues had an option to re-sign the player for around €10m last summer, but agreed to let Nico Paz stay in Como for €60m.

“Real Madrid C.F., Como 1907, and Nico Paz have reached an agreement for the player to remain at the Italian club for the 2026-2027 season,” Real Madrid said on June 29, 2026.

ROTTERDAM, NETHERLANDS – OCTOBER 14: Nico Paz of Como 1907 reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2026/27 League Phase MD2 match between Feyenoord and Como 1907 at De Kuip on October 14, 2026 in Rotterdam, Netherlands. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)

“This agreement, which has been made at the player’s own request, also provides that Real Madrid retains a unilateral buy-back option for Nico Paz’s federative rights for the 2027-2028 season.”

The La Liga giants have another option to re-sign Nico Paz next summer for €80m, and the Argentine formally remains under contract with Como until June 2028.

ITALY – OCTOBER 21: Jacobo Ramon of Como 1907 scores his team’s fourth goal during the UEFA Champions League 2026/27 League Phase MD3 match between Como 1907 and Manchester United at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on October 21, 2026 in Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Real Madrid also hold an option on another academy product playing at Como: centre-back Jacobo Ramon, who scored a goal against Manchester United on Wednesday.

The Spaniard joined the Serie A side in 2025 for just €2.5m, but Real Madrid have an option to re-sign him in the future.

Another MLB club owner is strongly on record in favor of a hard salary cap and floor, further showing the extent of management’s push to restructure the economics of baseball. 

White Sox minority owner Mat Ishbia told Front Office Sports he is firmly in favor of a hard cap in baseball—and he particularly lauded the virtues of a proposed salary floor along with it. 

Ishbia, also the majority owner of the NBA’s Suns and WNBA’s Mercury, owns about 40% of the White Sox along with his brother Justin, who is poised to take over club control from current chairman Jerry Reinsdorf in a multistage transition. He cautioned that as a minority owner, he won’t be making the calls on what happens with the labor dispute. 

“I do believe that it’s been proven that having a salary cap does make sense for the business,” Mat Ishbia told FOS’s Dan Roberts. “But, also what people don’t realize, people say, ‘Oh, that’s very owner-like to say.’ But the other part that’s not happening that’s very fan-like—and once again, I’m maybe speaking out of turn because I don’t have any say on this at all—is in the NBA, there’s also a minimum you have to pay. So in the NBA, even though the salary cap’s, whatever, $180 million. I can’t pay only $70 million to just sit there. I’ve actually got to pay 90-plus%, 95%. Therefore, it’s really a pro-player thing. So I think there’s probably a compromise.”

Ishbia’s comments echo those of other MLB club owners. Yankees managing general partner Hal Steinbrenner, who is on MLB’s labor policy committee, said Wednesday he supports management’s labor proposals, including the salary cap and floor, “in their entirety.” 

Brewers owner Mark Attanasio similarly told WFAN earlier this week, “I think you have to ask yourself, ‘What’s worked in other leagues? What’s the likelihood of [winning a championship]?’” 

Attanasio is scheduled to speak with the media again on Thursday in advance of his Brewers playing in the World Series starting Friday against the Rays. 

Labor Dynamics 

The salary cap and floor are key parts of MLB’s proposals in ongoing labor negotiations with the MLB Players Association. Owners have also put forward bids for significant restrictions on free agency, a retooled draft, and a 154-game regular season. 

Players vehemently oppose much of this, particularly the salary cap, as they view such measures as drags on overall compensation. 

“For generations, our members have fought against cap systems because they harm players at all levels, erode or eliminate contractual guarantees, pit player against player, lead to more work stoppages, not less, and get worse for players over time,” MLBPA interim executive director Bruce Meyer said earlier this year. “Caps don’t lower ticket prices for fans, eliminate tanking, or ensure teams are run with equal competence. They suffocate competition by offering owners an all-purpose excuse for inaction and mediocrity.”

Ishbia’s comments give a further spotlight to the proposed salary floor, which has been a somewhat overlooked part of the public discussion around the ongoing labor negotiations.

Scrutiny has been high on top-spending teams such as the Dodgers, Mets, and Yankees, and the owners’ intended salary cap of $245.3 million would require payroll cuts by those and several other teams. A sought-after salary floor of $171.2 million, meanwhile, is above the current payrolls of 12 clubs, including the Brewers and Rays now competing in the World Series.

“My take is there’s got to be some structure so that all the teams can compete, and there’s got to be some type of formality there,” Ishbia said. 

With players and owners still deeply divided, management is expected to impose a lockout once the current collective bargaining agreement expires in December. 

The post White Sox Owner Mat Ishbia Endorses MLB Salary Cap—and Floor appeared first on Front Office Sports.

Seven players from Cleveland, Gaston and Lincoln counties have been selected to play in December's NCCA East-West All-Star football game in Greensboro.

Game rosters were revealed in full Thursday, Oct. 22. Local players selected as West team all-stars were:

• Landen Agee, North Lincoln running back
• Immanuel Collins, Shelby wide receiver
• Beau Harrill, Burns offensive lineman
• Landon Hollifield, Shelby linebacker
• Javion Hopper, Crest defensive back
• A.J. McClain, Ashbrook quarterback
• Jaydin Phillips, Ashbrook offensive lineman

SHRINE BOWL BOUND: 3 Cleveland County football standouts, coach picked for Shrine Bowl of Carolinas

JUST RECOGNITION: Here are 18 of Gastonia, Shelby high school football's unsung heroes

In addition, Shelby football coach Mike Wilbanks was selected as the West team head coach. North Lincoln head man Brad Baker was named an assistant.

Pitting players from dueling sides of the Old North State, the game is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 19, at Jamieson Stadium on the campus of Grimsley High in Greensboro. Tickets are $15 and go on sale Nov. 1.

Here are full rosters for the East and West all-star teams.

West Team all-stars

• Ty Adkins, Freedom, LB
• Landen Agee, North Lincoln, RB
• Braylon Arnold, Davie, DL
• Kaleb Bales, Davie, OL
• Thailand Bellamy, Lake Norman, WR
• Brian Bellerand, Southeast Guilford, OL
• Gregory Blair, South Point, DL
• Cameron Clem, Murphy, RB
• Immanuel Collins, Shelby, WR
• Tanner Finnerty, Mooresville, LB
• Isaiah Foxx, Salisbury, CB
• Semaj Galloway, Mount Tabor, S
• Devin Gastley, West Stokes, TE
• Seven Glover, Reagan, S
• Beau Harrill, Burns, DL
• Cason Holder, East Forsyth, OL
• Dhilyn Hollis, A.L. Brown, LB
• Landon Hollifield, Shelby, LB
• Javion Hopper, Crest, CB
• Chase Huellmantel, Grimsley, K
• Caden Ingle, Erwin, QB
• Aiden Love, Alleghany, LB
• A.J. McClain, Ashbrook, QB
• Alonzo McCoy, Reagan, DL
• Infinite Morrow, Central Cabarrus, DL
• Asante Muhammad, Ragsdale, OL
• Colby Pack, East Rutherford, OL
• Jaydin Phillips, Ashbrook, OL
• Caniyus Rushing, Monroe, DL
• Brody Scruggs, Hibriten, DL
• Amario Spence, West Iredell, RB
• Tristan Thompson-Wynn, T.C. Roberson, WR
• Joshua Wallace, Robert B. Glenn, CB
• Jahkyran Weaver, Hickory, WR
• Davis Weycker, Piedmont, LB
• Makai Yon, Grimsley, S

Coaches: Mike Wilbanks, Shelby (head coach); assistant coaches Brad Baker, North Lincoln; Justin Hardin, A.L. Brown; Trent Lowman, West Stokes; Antwon Stevenson, Ragsdale; Eddy Taylor, Erwin.

East Team all-stars

• Nick Belcher, Middle Creek, TE
• Nicolas Bocciardi, Middle Creek, WR
• Mason Byrum, John A. Holmes, ATH
• Dawson Crosby, East Columbus, LB
• Chance Crowder, Richmond Senior, RB
• Xavier Cuthbertson, West Craven, WR
• C.J. Dickerson, Clayton, DL
• Pa’tron Dixon, East Columbus, DL
• William Doe, Ayden-Grifton, OL
• Steven Elliott, Perquimans, DL
• Samuel Finch, Fike, QB
• Alijah Flowers, Richmond Senior, LB
• Titus Gleisinger, D.H. Conley, LB
• Tylen Gorham, Southwest Edgecombe, DL
• Larry Grier III, Ayden-Grifton, DB
• Zakaryus Ishman, Northeastern, QB
• Jalyn Kinsey, Kinston, OL
• Calvin Lacewell Jr., Lakewood, RB
• Samuel Lane, Perquimans, OL
• Darryl Loatman Jr., Fike, WR
• Taylor Martin, Lumberton, OL
• Jordan Matthewson, Martin County, LB
• Devon Mayo Jr., Southwest Edgecombe, DB
• Gavin McLawhorn, Wake Forest, LB
• Ezra Meachem, South Central, DB
• Jamir Mitchell, Northside Jacksonville, DL
• Sam Offor, Enloe, OL
• Adam Saunders, Southeast Raleigh, WR
• Matthew Smoot, Northside Jacksonville, DB
• Ziyir Stanley, Southeast Raleigh, DB
• Davis Spruill, Cape Fear, K
• Joshua Suggs, Sanderson, OL
• David Sutton III, John A. Holmes, DB
• Landon Underwood, Cape Fear, WR
• John Williams, Midway, OL
• Mekkhei Williams, Northeastern, DL

Coaches: Nate Conner, D.H. Conley (head coach); assistant coaches Travis Gaster, Princeton; Robby Priest, East Bladen; Ian Rapanick, Perquimans; David Reece, Triton and Jay Wilson, Greene Central.

This article originally appeared on The Gaston Gazette: 7 Gastonia, Shelby football players chosen as NCCA East-West all-stars

WWE’s Triple H acknowledges Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton’s epic tribute before return from Achilles injury appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Walking into the arena for his return from an Achilles injury, Indiana Pacers star and WWE fan Tyrese Haliburton paid homage to “The Game,” Triple H, who famously returned from a quad injury in 2002.

Trips took notice of the tribute. He responded to the Pacers’ post of Haliburton’s pre-game outfit, which included the same denim jacket Triple H wore during his famous 2002 return, saying, “Game. Start. [Hammer and pick emoji].”

Game: Start. ⚒️ https://t.co/trHcDiHQRc

Watch sports LIVE with fuboTV (free trial)

— Triple H (@TripleH) October 21, 2026

Haliburton is a big fan of WWE, so Triple H acknowledging him likely means a lot. Hopefully, the Pacers star is able to appear in the ring again soon. He last appeared in the ring at Saturday Night’s Main Event in July 2026, renewing his rivalry with New York Knicks captain Jalen Brunson.

How did Pacers’ Tyrese Haliburton play in his return from his Achilles injury?Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

The Pacers won their first game of the year and had Haliburton back on the floor. The point guard played well in his first game back, logging 23 points in 34 minutes. He also had 12 assists, leading the team.

Pascal Siakam led the Pacers with 30 points. Obi Toppin also scored 20 points off the bench. It was a team effort to take down the New Orleans Pelicans.

This was Haliburton’s first game since Game 7 of the NBA Finals in June 2025. He tore his Achilles in the game, and he missed the entire 2025-26 season as a result.

The Pacers struggled without Haliburton last season. They finished 19-63 in the regular season and missed the playoffs one year after almost winning a title.

Since joining the Pacers in 2022, Haliburton has made two NBA All-Star teams and two All-NBA Third Teams. He started his career with the Sacramento Kings, who drafted him in the first round of the 2020 NBA Draft out of Iowa State. He was named to the All-Rookie First Team in 2021.

Related: Tyrese Haliburton, Derik Queen have to be separated after verbal altercation in Pacers-Pelicans

Related: Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton gets emotional during 1st postgame interview back from injury

Barcelona defender ruled out of El Clasico; at risk of missing Aston Villa, Atletico Madrid games too

Andreas Christensen has been sidelined for more than a month with a left quadriceps injury, and FC Barcelona have not yet confirmed a return date for the Danish defender.

Injured during the La Liga match against Sevilla on 19 September, the veteran centre-back was initially expected to miss four to six weeks, but the club are now starting to consider the possibility of his absence lasting up to two months, reports SPORT.

As such, Christensen will definitely miss Sunday’s El Clasico against Real Madrid, having already sat out four competitive fixtures.

If his recovery takes longer than initially hoped, he could also be unavailable for Barcelona’s UEFA Champions League meeting with Aston Villa on 3 November and their La Liga visit to Atletico Madrid on 8 November.

Christensen’s recovery timeline remains uncertain

Christensen suffered the injury during Barcelona’s match against Sevilla after a challenge involving an opponent. The Danish defender went down and was visibly distressed on the bench before being substituted, with Gerard Martin taking his place.

Barcelona confirmed the following day that medical tests had revealed a muscular injury to the rectus femoris in his left quadriceps.

Christensen suffered the injury against Sevilla. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

The club initially declined to provide a precise recovery timeline, stating that he would be unavailable for the coming weeks and that his progress would determine when he could return.

Early estimates suggested an absence of four to six weeks. However, Christensen’s history of muscular injuries has encouraged caution, with Barcelona allowing for a longer recovery period of up to two months to reduce the risk of a setback.

33 days have now passed since the injury, equivalent to four weeks and five days. With no official comeback date announced, the defender’s rehabilitation remains the determining factor.

Aston Villa and Atletico Madrid matches could be at risk

Christensen has already missed Barcelona’s league victories over Getafe and Real Betis, as well as Champions League fixtures against Galatasaray and PSG.

The next significant dates on Barcelona’s calendar could also come too soon if the recovery extends towards the two-month mark.

The Champions League match against Aston Villa on 3 November and the league clash versus Atletico Madrid five days later could both be at risk.

No return date set. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

Barça will then enter the next international break before hosting Villarreal on 22 November. That match could represent a possible return target under the more cautious recovery scenario.

The timeline remains flexible, and an earlier comeback cannot be ruled out. Barcelona are monitoring his progress rather than committing to a fixed date, leaving his availability for the upcoming fixtures dependent on how his recovery progresses.

Christensen’s extended absence is an unwelcome complication for Barcelona, particularly with demanding domestic and European fixtures approaching, coupled with the absences of Eric Garcia and Jules Kounde.

However, setting a return date too early would serve little purpose if it increased the risk of another muscular setback, even more so given his troubled history with injuries.

Oct. 22—***

What happened to Mike Locksley on Wednesday — Maryland fired its eight-year head coach — was a lot of things. It stunk for those who are on the team now. It served as a reminder of the volatility in the coaching profession where they are hired to be fired. Very few leave on their own terns. It is sad for the many people who have gotten to know Locksley over the years, including a reporter in faraway Champaign-Urbana who stayed in contact over the years.

But Locksley's dismissal is not tragic. He will wake up on Thursday's morning surrounded by family and close to his many friends. When the time is right, he will be back on the sidelines. My guess is as an offensive coordinator in the Power Four or as an assistant in the NFL. The game that has been his life will continue to be there for him.

Oh yeah, did I mention the buyout? Maryland owes Locksley close to $10 million according to published reports. Money doesn't buy happiness, but it can sure help a guy pay for his hobbies.

The hard part for Locksley going forward is Maryland seemed to be his dream job. Near where he grew up, A place where he understood what it took to try to build a winner.

Three years ago, his future seemed solid at Maryland. The Terrapins put together three winning seasons in a row. all capped by bowl victories.

But it turned the wrong way starting in 2024, Maryland going 8-16 with just two conference wins. When the team opened 2-5 and the Big Ten losing streak hit 12, the powers in College Park said time's up.

Can anyone win at Maryland? I'll answer that question with a question: Can anyone win at Indiana?

Not to point a finger, but the magic trick in Bloomington did no favors for every other college coach. School administrators and their boosters and fans keep asking "Why can't be like the Hoosiers?" They've got a point.

Coaches like Locksley know it is coming. What you hope for them is when they are a hot commodity, they sign a favorable deal in case everything goes off the rails, which is usually does (Nick Saban exception noted).

Oct. 22—Our preview of the 2026-27 college basketball season continues with the top 25 players in the country:

1. Tyler Tanner, Jr., Guard, Vanderbilt

Tanner's breakout sophomore season for the Commodores was actually incredible, as the 6-foot guard shifted from lightly used backup to Vanderbilt's clear-cut No. 1 option. Tanner averaged 19.5 points on 48/37/85 shooting to go with 5.1 assists, 3.6 rebounds and 2.4 steals per game. A true two-way threat.

2. Jeremy Fears Jr., Sr., Guard, Michigan State

The Spartans' offense in 2025-26 was Fears. The 6-2 point guard led Michigan State in scoring, averaging 15.2 points, and was the national leader with 9.4 assists per game. While Fears is not the most efficient scorer, his ability as a creator — for himself and his teammates — makes him an offensive threat.

3. David Mirkovic, So., Forward, Illinois

It's a short list of big men who can impact a game in the ways Mirkovic did for Illinois last season. The 6-9, 250-pound forward flashed as a scorer (13.3 ppg), shooter (made 37.5 percent of his threes), rebounder (led the Illini) and facilitator (2.6 apg). The expectation this season? More of all of that.

4. Thomas Haugh, Sr., Forward, Florida

Haugh was a role player off the bench for the Gators' 2025 national championship team before turning into their go-to scorer last season. Florida paid for the privilege to keep Haugh out of the 2026 NBA Draft, but it was probably worth it to bring back the hyper athletic 6-9 forward.

5. Silas Demary Jr., Sr., Guard, Connecticut

Demary's first season with the Huskies saw his scoring drop more than three points per game from his sophomore year at Georgia. The overall impact the 6-5 guard made, however, went the other direction. Demary doubled up with All-Big East First Team and All-Defensive Team honors for the national runners-up.

6. Thijs De Ridder, So., Forward, Virginia

Did De Ridder qualify for ACC All-Freshman honors? Sure, but the 6-9 Belgian did turn 23 midway through his first season with the Cavaliers. He should have defaulted as one of the ACC's best first-year players, and did just that putting up 15.6 points and 6.2 rebounds per game.

7. Motiejus Krivas, Sr., Center, Arizona

Playing with two first-round picks (Brayden Burries and Koa Peat) and the Big 12 Player of the Year (Jaden Bradley) meant Krivas didn't have to be guy for the Wildcats last season. But that didn't keep the 7-footer from earning both All-Big 12 First Team and All-Defensive Team recognition.

8. Juke Harris, Jr., Guard, Tennessee

The Volunteers' new offense-first focus should fit nicely with Harris as the likely No. 1 option. The Wake Forest transfer was one of the most highly sought after players in the portal this offseason after averaging 21.4 points on 44/33/78 shooting last season for the Demon Deacons.

9. Flory Bidunga, Jr., Forward, Louisville

Bidunga basically set the market this offseason for transfer big men — a rather scarce commodity at the power conference level. The Cardinals reportedly spent $5 million on the former Kansas forward, who averaged 13.3 points, nine rebounds and 2.6 blocks as the 2026 Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year.

10. Rob Wright III, Jr., Guard, BYU

Wright was still productive playing second fiddle to AJ Dybantsa last season at BYU. The Baylor transfer (a last-minute move that tanked the Bears' season) averaged career highs across the board, putting up 18.1 points, 4.6 assists and 3.5 rebounds for the 23-win Cougars.

11. John Blackwell, Sr., Guard, Duke

Blackwell's role — and production — increased throughout his three seasons at Wisconsin. By year three, the 6-4 guard averaged 19.1 points, 5.1 rebounds and 2.3 assists and earned All-Big Ten First Team honors. Now the Blue Devils will reap the final reward in his final year of eligibility.

12. Milan Momcilovic, Sr., Forward, Kentucky

No one was more efficient from three-point range than Momcilovic was last season at Iowa State. The 6-8 forward led the nation, connecting on 48.7 percent of his 279 three-point attempts, as he finished just a few made free throws shy of a 50/40/90 season.

13. Jordan Smith Jr., Fr., Guard, Arkansas

All Smith did was win at Paul VI (Va.), leading the Panthers to three state titles and four trips to the Chipotle National Championships. Smith's senior season saw the Virginia powerhouse go 33-3, as he averaged 26.6 points on 56/37/72 shooting to go with 6.3 rebounds, 5.6 assists and 3.2 steals per game.

14. JT Toppin, Sr., Forward, Texas Tech

Should Toppin be higher? Probably. The 2025 Big 12 Player of the Year earned All-American honors the past two seasons, with last year's coming despite a season-ending injury in February. It's that torn ACL — and subsequent unknown return — that makes Toppin's status murky in 2026-27.

15. Joaquim Boumtje Boumtje, Fr., Center, Duke

Boumtje Boumtje picked up multiple MVP honors this spring and summer after committing to the Blue Devils. The freshman big man out of FC Barcelona was the top player at the adidas NextGen EuroLeague Finals and doubled up on top awards leading the U.S. to gold at the FIBA U17 World Cup.

16. Tyran Stokes, Fr., Forward, Kansas

Stokes put up massive numbers at Rainier Beach (Wash.) after transferring from Notre Dame (Calif.) in November of his senior year. Averaging 31 points, 13 rebounds, six assists and four steals for the Class 3A state champions helped the 6-8 forward hold on to the No. 1 spot in the Class of 2026.

17. Elliot Cadeau, Sr., Guard, Michigan

Cadeau hit a different level during the Wolverines' national championship run. The 6-1 point guard saw bumps in scoring, rebounding and assists in that six-game stretch, and that's what will be required of the tournament's Most Outstanding Player now that Michigan lost three first-round picks.

18. Braden Huff, Sr., Forward, Gonzaga

Huff had established himself as one of the breakout players of the 2025-26 season when he suffered a dislocated left kneecap during a mid-January practice. Through 18 games, however, the 2023 N-G All-State Player of the Year had averaged 17.8 points and 5.6 rebounds in just 25.4 minutes per game.

19. Rueben Chinyelu, Sr., Center, Florida

Chinyelu was a double-double machine for the Gators last season, hitting that mark 19 times in 35 games, including three games with at least 20 rebounds for the SEC Defensive Player of the Year. What made Chinyelu's 10.9 points and 11.2 rebounds per game more impressive is that it came in just 24.5 minutes per game.

20. Nigel James Jr., So., Guard, Marquette

James earned Big East Freshman of the Year honors last season, putting up 16.4 points, 4.9 assists and 3.4 rebounds per game. The 6-footer projects to do more of the same for a Marquette team that actually went to the portal to put more talent around its star sophomore.

21. Malik Reneau, 5th, Forward, Miami

Reneau was so successful for the Hurricanes last season he sued his way back into college basketball for a fifth year. The 6-9 forward's game certainly evolved after three years at Miami, as he turned into a 35 percent three-point shooter while also averaging 18.9 points, 6.5 rebounds and 2.1 assists.

22. PJ Haggerty, 5th, Guard, Texas A&M

There's no questioning Haggerty's ability as a scorer. The 6-3 guard has scored 2,158 points in his career, with 2,141 coming in the past three seasons at Tulsa, Memphis and Kansas State. Playing uptempo "Bucky Ball" with the Aggies for Bucky McMillan is basically a match made in heaven.

23. Tamin Lipsey, 5th, Guard, Iowa State

Lipsey's impressive career as a three-time All-Big 12 and three-time Big 12 All-Defensive Team honoree still has one more judicially declared chapter. The 13.5 points, 6.1 assists, 3.9 rebounds and 2.3 steals Lipsey averaged last season is something the Cyclones will happily welcome back for a fifth year.

24. Pryce Sandfort, Sr., Forward, Nebraska

The quickest trigger in the Big Ten had a constant green light in his first season at Nebraska after two seasons as a role player off the bench at Iowa. Sandfort shot 42 percent from three-point range on nearly nine attempts per game and averaged a career high 18.1 points for the Cornhuskers.

25. Mason Falslev, Sr., Guard, Utah State

New Utah State coach Ben Jacobson lucked into an impressive building block for his first team when Falslev opted to stay — again. Jacobson is the third coach in three years for the 6-4 guard, who earned 2026 Mountain West Player of the Year honors after averaging 16 points, 5.7 rebounds and 3.1 assists.

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