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‘Jordan Elliott Will Never Play Another Game in the NFL’ — Ex-NFL LB Delivers Scathing Assessment of Titans DT’s Future After Alleged Incident Involving Teammate

The Tennessee Titans released defensive tackle Jordan Elliott on Tuesday after an incident at the team’s facility last week.

Reacting on “Speakeasy,” former NFL linebacker Emmanuel Acho didn’t hedge on what comes next: “Jordan Elliott will never play another game in the National Football League.”

What We Know About the Incident That Led to Jordan Elliott’s Release

The Titans’ statement on Tuesday didn’t say what the incident was: “On Thursday, October 15th, there was an incident at our team facility involving Jordan Elliott. Following our review of the incident, we have made the decision to release Elliott from our roster. We will have no further comment on the matter.”

A to Z Sports’ Easton Freeze reported on X that, per his sources, “Firearm involved in Jordan Elliott’s release from Titans following frustration with teammate that carried over after practice.”

Reacting to the news, Acho said, “You can’t bring a gun inside the facility to use on your own teammate and expect to ever play football again. You do something as egregious as threaten the life of one of your brothers over some words, you’re never playing again.”

According to A to Z, Elliott’s irritation with a teammate began during practice on Thursday, October 15, and, on its own, did not alarm anyone who saw it.

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It followed him into the locker room after the session, though, and he was seen storming out upset. The outlet reported that he then went to the players’ parking garage next to the facility to get a firearm from his vehicle, and that “the situation was de-escalated before there was any altercation involving the firearm.”

That account doesn’t describe Elliott bringing a gun into the building or threatening a teammate’s life. The Metro Nashville Police Department also told A to Z on Tuesday afternoon that no reports had been filed and that the team had not contacted police about the incident.

Acho’s reaction then turned to what the alleged incident said about Elliott himself: “What makes an adult an adult? What makes a man different than a boy is emotional regulation. That’s what makes you an adult. When you’re a kid, you cry for literally any and every reason. You do not have emotional regulation.”

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He closed by urging Elliott to “make sure you get your emotions in check,” and reminded viewers that “this wasn’t an opponent” and that “this was quite literally a teammate who you were supposed to go to war with, not go to war against.”

Elliott is in his seventh NFL season after the Cleveland Browns took him in the third round of the 2020 draft. He spent four years in Cleveland and then two seasons with the San Francisco 49ers.

Last season he started 16 games there under former 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, now Tennessee’s head coach.

Elliott followed Saleh to Tennessee on a two-year, $8 million free agent deal in March. The idea, essentially, was that a player who already knew the defense could help his new teammates learn the scheme Saleh was putting in during his first year.

Elliott played in Tennessee’s first five games. Nazir Stackhouse was among the defensive tackles who saw action with Elliott out during Sunday’s 26-20 win at Indianapolis. It was the Titans’ first win of the season, and they are now 1-5 and fourth in the AFC South.

This article originally appeared on Pro Football Network.

There wasn’t much movement in this week’s TCPalm Super 10 Power Rankings.

Only two teams switched positions following last week’s action.

During the 11-game slate, only two games were decided by one score. That includes South Fork, which hung on late to collect a 27-26 home win over Palm Beach Gardens. The victory propelled the Bulldogs into the top five of this week’s rankings.

The average margin of victory during last week’s schedule was 28.5 points.

Watch the best high school football games in Florida

As the regular season winds down, here’s a look at TCPalm’s latest power rankings.

Week 10 Super 10 Rankings1. Vero Beach (7-1)

Vero Beach currently owns the area’s longest winning streak. A sixth consecutive win would mean a third straight district title for the area’s top-ranked program. However, to accomplish both feats, Vero Beach will have to get past a dangerous team that has emerged as a legitimate threat.

Coming off a bye week, Vero Beach will travel to South County Regional Stadium to face Treasure Coast in the District 8-6A championship game.

Previous ranking: 1

Last week: Bye

Next game: 7 p.m. Friday at Treasure Coast

2. John Carroll Catholic (6-2)

Despite facing a deficit after the first play of the night, the Rams used their running game and defense to cool off the area’s hottest team with a home win over Treasure Coast.

Senior running back Felix Jackson rushed 22 times for 134 yards and a touchdown. Meanwhile, junior linebacker Josh Dean reached the end zone on a fumble-return touchdown that proved to be the difference.

Next up for John Carroll Catholic is a chance to secure its second district title in three years. The Rams will travel to Benjamin for the District 10-1A championship game.

Previous ranking: 2

Last week: 21-14 win vs. Treasure Coast 

Next game: 6:30 p.m. Friday at Benjamin

3. Jensen Beach (6-2)

Winning its six victories by an average of 35 points, Jensen Beach continued its string of blowouts by routing Legacy. The Falcons collected their third shutout while posting their highest point total of the season.

Alex Thornton has a hand on each side of the equation, returning two interceptions for touchdowns.

The Falcons can secure their fourth district title in five years with a win over Fort Pierce Westwood. They also could claim the District 13-4A championship with a loss by being the highest-ranked team in a three-team tiebreaker.

Previous ranking: 3

Last week: 51-0 win vs. Legacy

Next game: 7 p.m. Friday vs. Fort Pierce Westwood

4. Treasure Coast (5-3)

The Titans’ five-game winning streak came to an end with a road loss to John Carroll Catholic.

Treasure Coast scored on the game’s first play when Napoleon Johnson returned an interception for a touchdown, but the Titans did not score again until Aidan Pierre’s 6-yard touchdown run with 25 seconds remaining.

While their winning streak is gone, the Titans have a chance to lock up a postseason berth when they host Vero Beach in the District 8-6A championship game.

Previous ranking: 4

Last week: 21-14 loss at John Carroll Catholic

Next game: 7 p.m. Friday at Vero Beach

5. South Fork (6-2)

The Bulldogs secured their first winning season since 2015 when they held off Palm Beach Gardens in the final moments last Friday.

Trey Rolle forced a red-zone fumble that was recovered by Trent Vega with less than a minute remaining to preserve the victory. Champ Smith accounted for all four of South Fork’s touchdowns.

While a district title is no longer possible, the Bulldogs can continue building on their best season in more than a decade when they visit Seminole Ridge in their district finale.

Previous ranking: 6

Last week: 27-26 win vs. Palm Beach Gardens

Next game: 6:30 p.m. Friday at Seminole Ridge

Teams 6-106. Fort Pierce Central (4-3)

Previous ranking: 5

Last week: 42-3 loss vs. Bishop Verot

Next game: 7 p.m. Friday vs. St. Lucie West Centennial

7. Fort Pierce Westwood (5-3)

Previous ranking: 7

Last week: 42-3 win vs. Sebastian River

Next game: 7 p.m. Friday at Jensen Beach

8. Martin County (4-4)

Previous ranking: 8

Last week: Bye

Next game: 6:30 p.m. Friday at Palm Beach Gardens

9. St. Edward’s (5-4)

Previous ranking: 9

Last week: 53-6 win vs. Leonard

Next game: 7 p.m. Friday at Master’s Academy

10. Legacy (3-5)

Previous ranking: 10 

Last week: 51-0 loss at Jensen Beach

Next game: 6 p.m. Monday vs. Beachside

Patrick Bernadeau is a sports reporter for Treasure Coast Newspapers. He can be reached at 772-985-9692, on X at @PatBernadeau or via email at pbernadeau@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: TCPalm Super 10: Area football rankings leading up district title games

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Georgia’s Kirby Smart has won so much for so long that he’s regarded as the best coach in college football. But after a last-second loss to Auburn, he proved he can also be one of the sport’s best quotes.

“Humility is a week away,” he said.

Tennessee coach Josh Heupel would be wise to paraphrase Smart’s comment before the Vols take on South Carolina at Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia.

The Vols are coming off a dominant 26-10 victory over Alabama. They’re 6-1 and on the cusp of the top 10.

But all they gained from a victory over their archrival could be lost with a loss to the unranked Gamecocks.

Tennessee 26, South Carolina 16: In an unpredictable SEC season, team performances have varied drastically from one Saturday to the next.

Based on that trend, Tennessee could be next in line to take a tumble after a big win. But amid all the SEC’s inconsistency, UT’s defense has remained steadfast.

Something else to consider: Tennessee has been coming on strong in the second half; in South Carolina's last five SEC games dating back to last season, it has lost leads of 27, 16 and 17 points.

LSU 31, Auburn 23: While I believe Tennessee’s defense will prevent a letdown against South Carolina, I’m not as confident about Auburn’s chances for prosperity after upsetting No. 1 Georgia.

The LSU offense hasn’t always been the model of consistency, but neither has Auburn’s.

LSU’s challenge: Winning on the road. It already has lost at Ole Miss and Kentucky.

That’s a carryover from the Brian Kelly era. The Tigers lost all four of their SEC road games in 2025. They also lost their last two conference road games in 2024.

So, they will take an eight-game SEC road losing streak with them to Jordan-Hare Stadium.

They’re due.

Alabama 30, Texas A&M 15: The Tide also are due for a win after losing back-to-back games against Georgia and Tennessee.

They can be grateful that their schedule offers a home game against the three-loss Aggies, who have lost two SEC games by 21 or more points.

Texas A&M’s 41-0 victory over The Citadel hardly qualifies as the beginning of a turnaround. However, it at least demonstrated that the Aggies aren’t devoid of young talent.

Freshman running back KJ Edwards led Texas A&M with 116 yards rushing on 16 carries. Freshman wide receiver Aaron Gregory led the Aggies’ injury-depleted receiving corps with six catches for 94 yards.

Oklahoma 23, Mississippi State 20: This matchup is all about quarterbacks.

You can’t be sure if Bulldogs quarterback Kamario Taylor is healthy enough to play. Without him, Mississippi State lost 31-0 to LSU. With him, it scored 38 points against Minnesota and 41 on South Carolina.

The health of Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer isn’t an issue. Performance is his problem.

Mateer is a fiery competitor and a running threat. But he doesn’t protect the football. He has lost two fumbles and thrown seven interceptions in six games. And he has thrown only two more touchdown passes than interceptions.

In Mateer’s last season at Washington State (2024), he threw seven interceptions in 12 games. He also threw 29 touchdown passes.

Texas 30, Ole Miss 27: The Longhorns are getting less for their NIL money than any other program. But just because you have a big-bucks payroll doesn’t mean you have a big-play offense.

Texas has scored fewer than 24 points in four of its six games.

ADAMS: Tennessee football should be well aware of South Carolina threat on road

And the Longhorns are on the verge of playing themselves out of the playoffs for a second consecutive season. But they might be catching the Rebels at the right time.

A week after beating LSU, Ole Miss lost to Florida by 28 points. Now, it’s coming off a 28-point victory over Missouri.

Kentucky 34, Vanderbilt 23: You might conclude that after five consecutive victories, the Wildcats are about to learn, as Smart said, that “humility is a week away.”

As accurate as Smart’s assessment might be in general, it doesn’t apply if you’re playing Vanderbilt.

Record: 59-14 (.793), 48-26 (.642) against the spread.

John Adams is a senior columnist. He may be reached at 865-342-6284 or john.adams@knoxnews.com.

This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Can Tennessee football avoid letdown at South Carolina, other SEC picks | Adams

Georgia’s Kirby Smart has won so much for so long that he’s regarded as the best coach in college football. But after a last-second loss to Auburn, he proved he can also be one of the sport’s best quotes.

“Humility is a week away,” he said.

Tennessee coach Josh Heupel would be wise to paraphrase Smart’s comment before the Vols take on South Carolina at Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia.

The Vols are coming off a dominant 26-10 victory over Alabama. They’re 6-1 and on the cusp of the top 10.

But all they gained from a victory over their archrival could be lost with a loss to the unranked Gamecocks.

Tennessee 26, South Carolina 16: In an unpredictable SEC season, team performances have varied drastically from one Saturday to the next.

Based on that trend, Tennessee could be next in line to take a tumble after a big win. But amid all the SEC’s inconsistency, UT’s defense has remained steadfast.

Something else to consider: Tennessee has been coming on strong in the second half; in South Carolina's last five SEC games dating back to last season, it has lost leads of 27, 16 and 17 points.

LSU 31, Auburn 23: While I believe Tennessee’s defense will prevent a letdown against South Carolina, I’m not as confident about Auburn’s chances for prosperity after upsetting No. 1 Georgia.

The LSU offense hasn’t always been the model of consistency, but neither has Auburn’s.

LSU’s challenge: Winning on the road. It already has lost at Ole Miss and Kentucky.

That’s a carryover from the Brian Kelly era. The Tigers lost all four of their SEC road games in 2025. They also lost their last two conference road games in 2024.

So, they will take an eight-game SEC road losing streak with them to Jordan-Hare Stadium.

They’re due.

Alabama 30, Texas A&M 15: The Tide also are due for a win after losing back-to-back games against Georgia and Tennessee.

They can be grateful that their schedule offers a home game against the three-loss Aggies, who have lost two SEC games by 21 or more points.

Texas A&M’s 41-0 victory over The Citadel hardly qualifies as the beginning of a turnaround. However, it at least demonstrated that the Aggies aren’t devoid of young talent.

Freshman running back KJ Edwards led Texas A&M with 116 yards rushing on 16 carries. Freshman wide receiver Aaron Gregory led the Aggies’ injury-depleted receiving corps with six catches for 94 yards.

Oklahoma 23, Mississippi State 20: This matchup is all about quarterbacks.

You can’t be sure if Bulldogs quarterback Kamario Taylor is healthy enough to play. Without him, Mississippi State lost 31-0 to LSU. With him, it scored 38 points against Minnesota and 41 on South Carolina.

The health of Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer isn’t an issue. Performance is his problem.

Mateer is a fiery competitor and a running threat. But he doesn’t protect the football. He has lost two fumbles and thrown seven interceptions in six games. And he has thrown only two more touchdown passes than interceptions.

In Mateer’s last season at Washington State (2024), he threw seven interceptions in 12 games. He also threw 29 touchdown passes.

Texas 30, Ole Miss 27: The Longhorns are getting less for their NIL money than any other program. But just because you have a big-bucks payroll doesn’t mean you have a big-play offense.

Texas has scored fewer than 24 points in four of its six games.

ADAMS: Tennessee football should be well aware of South Carolina threat on road

And the Longhorns are on the verge of playing themselves out of the playoffs for a second consecutive season. But they might be catching the Rebels at the right time.

A week after beating LSU, Ole Miss lost to Florida by 28 points. Now, it’s coming off a 28-point victory over Missouri.

Kentucky 34, Vanderbilt 23: You might conclude that after five consecutive victories, the Wildcats are about to learn, as Smart said, that “humility is a week away.”

As accurate as Smart’s assessment might be in general, it doesn’t apply if you’re playing Vanderbilt.

Record: 59-14 (.793), 48-26 (.642) against the spread.

John Adams is a senior columnist. He may be reached at 865-342-6284 or john.adams@knoxnews.com.

This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Can Tennessee football avoid letdown at South Carolina, other SEC picks | Adams

Actors Woody Harrelson (left) and Matthew McConaughey (center) stand beside Texas Longhorns Athletic Director Chris Del Conte during the first half against the Texas A&M Aggies at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. (Scott Wachter-Imagn Images)

Texas athletics director Chris Del Conte apologized to Florida on Tuesday and announced a permanent ban from Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium for a fan with field access who recorded himself flipping off and cursing at Florida Gators players after their 27-24 win over the Texas Longhorns in Austin on Saturday.

The announcement came in Del Conte’s weekly “Forty Acres Insider” newsletter on Texas’ athletics website. By then, video of the postgame scene had gone viral.

Chris Del Conte’s Full Statement and Apology to the Florida Gators

Del Conte got straight to it. “I want to address the video circulating on social media showing unacceptable behavior by an individual who had the privilege of field access following Saturday’s game. We pride ourselves on sportsmanship and treating our opponents with respect. This individual’s actions did not reflect those values or meet our standards and will not be tolerated.”

The statement did not name the man, and his identity has not been publicly released.

Del Conte closed with a message for the visitors and a verdict on the man himself:

“The matter has been addressed internally, and I want to personally apologize to the University of Florida and its entire football program. Having access to our field comes with a responsibility to represent Texas with class and respect. This individual failed to uphold that responsibility and has been permanently banned from Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium.”

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Tyler Horka, who covers Texas as a beat reporter for Inside Texas, posted the full statement Tuesday evening and tied it to “the behavior of the fan in this video.”

The announcement from Del Conte comes amid widespread condemnation from the college football world, led by former Notre Dame Fighting Irish offensive lineman Mike Golic Jr. who called the fan a “gigantic loser” in the immediate aftermath of the game.

What the Postgame Video Showed After the Gators’ Comeback

The confrontation came shortly after a game that slipped away from the Longhorns in front of their own fans. Texas, ranked No. 7 at the time, led 17-3 in the second quarter after Ryan Niblett’s 63-yard punt return touchdown. Then Florida answered with 24 straight points, including two Tramell Jones Jr. touchdown passes to Lacota Dippre and an 11-yard Jadan Baugh run.

Arch Manning’s 9-yard touchdown pass to Cam Coleman pulled Texas within three with 4:21 left, but Manning lost a fumble with 1:58 to go. Kanye Clark recovered, and the Longhorns never got the ball back. The loss, which On3 noted was Texas’ second in a row, dropped the Longhorns to 4-2, while Florida improved to 5-2.

The post-game incident on the field was captured by Anthony Geronimo. Gators players shouted back, and Florida staffers restrained some of them “to prevent the situation from escalating further.” No fight was reported, and in the video a Texas staff member appeared to walk over to the man.

On3‘s James Fletcher III reported that the man, dressed in Longhorns attire, also shouted at the players on their way to the locker room “as staff attempted to confirm whether he had field access.”

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This isn’t the first time that Texas has had to apologize for its fans’ behavior at a football game.

In 2024, during a game against Georgia, fans hurled debris onto the field after a disputed pass interference call on Texas that was later reversed, putting players and coaches in danger.

The SEC hit Texas with a $250,000 fine and directed the school to find the fans responsible and discipline them. In the end, none of them were punished.

This article originally appeared on Pro Football Network.

CLEMSON — Clemson football quarterback Tait Reynolds, like many people born in 2007, didn't know who Wally Pipp was.

So he was confused when Clemson coach Dabo Swinney mentioned the New York Yankees first baseman from 101 years ago during the Tigers' 37-0 win against Charleston Southern.

Reynolds got his leg rolled up in the third quarter, and Trent Pearman replaced him for a few plays. Reynolds wanted to re-enter immediately, but Swinney wanted him to sit and wait. Then, Pipp's story came up.

"It was quick because I was kind of mad," Reynolds said Oct. 20. "You saw me kind of limping; my leg got rolled up on. I see Trent running out ... so I come out there. I'm like, 'I'm going back in.' Then he (Swinney) starts telling me the story. I don't know who that guy is."

Pipp was one of the best hitters in the dead-ball era, but he is remembered as the player who sat out one game in 1925 with a headache and lost his starting job to Lou Gehrig. Pipp never got it back, and Gehrig began his then-record streak of 2,130 consecutive games played.

"I was just like, 'That’s great, man, but put me back in, like right now,'" Reynolds said.

Reynolds and Clemson (4-2, 2-1 ACC) host Virginia Tech (5-2, 2-2) on Oct. 24 (7 p.m., ESPN).

Why Dabo Swinney told Tait Reynolds the Wally Pipp story

Swinney said the Pipp reference was playful banter while he managed a competitive freshman who wants to play no matter what.

Swinney said he brought up the story because Reynolds played played baseball at Queen Creek High School in Arizona and could play baseball for the Tigers once the football season ends.

"He was a little mad at me, but he was gimpy," Swinney said after the game. "He goes, 'I'm going back in next play.' I said, 'No, you're not. You'll go back in when I put you in.' We had a little discussion, and then he said, 'No, I'm going; I'm fine.' And I said, 'No, you're gonna sit right here.'

"I said, 'Have you ever heard of Wally Pipp?' ... I said, 'I may never put you back in.' We had a little back-and-forth about the Wally Pipp story, and then put him back in."

MORE CLEMSON FOOTBALL: Dabo Swinney challenged Ashton Hampton to grow up. Now he's Clemson's top NFL prospect.

Swinney said Reynolds played his "best game by far" against Charleston Southern, and that he only passed for 127 yards due to drops and poor play from Clemson's pass-catchers. He said Reynolds missed what could've been a 60-yard touchdown pass up the seam in the second quarter. But overall, Swinney thought Reynolds was the most settled he's been as a Tiger.

Tait Reynolds seeks to be more aggressive rusher

Ahead of the Charleston Southern game, Swinney challenged Reynolds to be a better rusher. Swinney thinks Reynolds did that against the Buccaneers.

Reynolds rushed for 40 yards and had 5.7 yards per carry, both career highs. Reynolds said his hesitancy to rush has been a "mental thing" and that he wants to break that mental barrier down.

"I think it's something that I need to continue to work on," Reynolds said. "It's something that I have. I lost a little bit, just kind of the aggressiveness, and I think I need to get that back."

Reynolds might be leaned on more against Virginia Tech. The Hokies have one of the ACC's best run defenses at 87.4 yards allowed per game, which means the Tigers might need Reynolds to make more plays through the air and with his legs.

"I touch the ball every play, so it's always my responsibility to go out there and get it done," Reynolds said. "I trust the guys around me ... I'm just gonna get through it and do what I'm coached to do."

Nick Coppola covers Clemson athletics for The Greenville News and the USA Today Network. Email him at ncoppola@usatodayco.com, follow him on X @Nick_Coppola__ and like his Facebook page at Nick Coppola, Clemson Sports.

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: How Dabo Swinney confused Clemson QB Tait Reynolds with Wally Pipp reference

Florida A&M starting quarterback Armond Parker has flashed potential in his true freshman year.

Coming in relief duty as thumb injuries have sidelined initial starter Isaiah Knowles and backup Dustin Fletcher for a significant time, Parker has started the Rattlers’ last three games.

He’s showcased a strong arm, a gunslinger’s mentality, and dual-threat ability in first-year head coach Quinn Fordham Gray Sr.’s offense.

But the 18-year-old out of Georgia’s Locust Grove High School has also experienced growing pains.

Last Saturday was probably Parker’s worst statistical college football game, going 11-for-27 for 163 passing yards, but tossed three interceptions and lost a fumbled snap in the Rattlers’ 27-17 loss at Jackson State’s homecoming, the consensus No. 1 team in the USA TODAY HBCU Football Rankings, Black College Football Poll, and the Southwestern Athletic Conference East division.

Parker also rushed for a five-yard touchdown.

“At the end of that game, I just wrapped my arms around him and let him know that ‘We love you, we’re going to continue to love you, going to continue to play this game.’ And ultimately, you’ve got to tell him we’ve got to protect the football better,” Gray said.

The struggles at JSU followed Parker’s four-touchdown heroics for the Rattlers in their Oct. 9, 28-27 road homecoming football game win at Alabama State.

Gray added context that the late loss to JSU wasn’t solely on his freshman quarterback’s shoulders.

Wide receiver drops and the fumbled snap when Parker didn’t even call for the ball from the center were also contributing factors.

“He did some good things,” Gray said. “And as I told the team, we didn’t help him out in some situations. You’re talking about an ability to play complete football when it comes down to it, including him, including everybody else that’s around him.”

Parker’s growth under center continues this Saturday when he makes his FAMU (2-5, 1-2 in SWAC) homecoming debut against the Arkansas-Pine Bluff Golden Lions (3-3, 1-2 in SWAC) for a Week 8 SWAC matchup.

Parker enters with a 54% completion rate, 925 passing yards, eight touchdowns, eight interceptions, and has rushed for two touchdowns.

The Golden Lions have the worst pass defense of the 12 SWAC teams. Additionally, they are near the bottom of the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision, allowing opponents to average 320.8 passing yards on them. Pine Bluff also has a SWAC-low 11 sacks.

“That freshman quarterback is starting to pick it up,” Pine Bluff head coach Alonzo Hampton said of Parker. “They’ve got some wideouts that if you close your eyes, it’s a touchdown.”

The sold-out FAMU-UAPB game on Ken Riley Field at Bragg Memorial Stadium starts at 3 p.m., will be televised on HBCU GO and on Tallahassee radio airwaves via 96.1 JAMZ.

Florida A&M (2-5, 1-2 in SWAC) vs Arkansas-Pine Bluff (3-3, 1-2 in SWAC) ― Week 8, SWAC

• When: Saturday, Oct. 24 at 3 p.m.
• Where: Bragg Memorial Stadium in Tallahassee, Florida
• TV/Radio: HBCU GO, 96.1 JAMZ

Florida A&M football scores and full 2026 schedule

Current record: 2-5, 1-2 in SWAC

All times are Eastern

• Saturday, Aug. 29: FAMU 20, Albany State 7
• Sunday, Sept. 6 (Orange Blossom Classic): South Carolina State 31, FAMU 13
• Thursday, Sept. 10: Miami 77, FAMU 7
• Saturday, Sept. 19: Tennessee State 29, FAMU 26
• Saturday, Sept. 26: Alabama A&M 40, FAMU 21
• Saturday, Oct. 3: BYE
• Friday, Oct. 9: FAMU 28, Alabama State 27
• Saturday, Oct. 17: Jackson State 27, FAMU 17
• Saturday, Oct. 24: vs. Arkansas-Pine Bluff (SWAC/Homecoming), 3 p.m., HBCU GO
• Saturday, Oct. 31: vs. Southern (SWAC), 3 p.m., HBCU GO
• Saturday, Nov. 7: at Alcorn State (SWAC), 3 p.m., SWAC TV
• Saturday, Nov. 14: vs. Mississippi Valley State (SWAC), 3 p.m., SWAC TV
• Saturday, Nov. 21: vs. Bethune-Cookman (SWAC/Florida Classic), 3:30 p.m., ESPN+

Gerald Thomas, III, is a multi-time national award-winning reporter for his coverage of the Florida A&M Rattlers at the Tallahassee Democrat under the USA TODAY Network.

Follow his award-winning coverage on RattlerNews.com and contact him via email at GDThomas@Tallahassee.com or on the app formerly known as Twitter @3peatgee.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: FAMU football QB Armond Parker experiences freshman highs and lows

Here's a look at the best Week 9 high school football games in the Texas Panhandle.

Game of the WeekCanyon (5-2, 1-1) vs Randall (6-1, 1-1)

7 p.m. Friday, Happy State Bank Stadium

The Raiders and Eagles are each looking to bounce back after dropping District 2-4A Division I contests in Week 8.

Canyon was defeated 18-16 by West Plains, while Randall fell 28-19 at the hands of Dumas. Behind the Wolves, who sit atop the league after a 2-0 start, Randall, Canyon and Hereford are each 1-1 in district play, meaning the Raiders and Eagles' matchup will have a significant impact on playoff seeding.

Led by a strong group of skill position players that includes sophomore quarterback Hendrix Funk, senior running back Drayden Ray and wide receiver duo Phoenix Sherwood and Kobe Baccas, the Raiders scored at least 35 points in each of the team's first six games.

Similarly, Canyon's two losses this season have come by a combined three points, with the Eagles scoring at least 37 points in each of the team's victories.

Head coach Matt Lovorn's team is led by senior signal caller Brox Hacker, star running back Austin Turner and two-way standout Will Kilgore. Under the tutelage of first-year offensive coordinator Jon Murphy, who was previously the head coach at Stratford, Canyon's offense has averaged 39.7 points per game this year.

Friday's contest at Happy State Bank Stadium should feature a showdown between two talented quarterbacks and high-powered offenses.

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Other games to watch in the Texas PanhandleCanadian (5-3, 2-0) at Childress (4-3, 1-0)

7 p.m. Friday, Fair Park Stadium

Last week: Canadian 70, Dimmitt 31

The Wildcats won their first two District 1-3A Division II games by a combined score of 119-38 and will meet a Bobcats team that has won four of its last five contests in Week 9.

Hale Center (4-3, 0-1) at Tulia (5-3, 2-0)

7 p.m. Friday, Younger Field

Last week: Tulia 49, Farwell 28

The Hornets look to remain unbeaten in District 2-2A Division I play against an Owls' squad that is looking to get back on track after losing its last two games.

Vega (4-2, 0-1) at Gruver (8-0, 2-0)

7 p.m. Thursday, Greyhound Stadium

Last week: West Texas 61, Vega 26; Gruver 55, Bovina 0

The Longhorns look to pick up their first win in District 1-2A Division II competition on the road against a Gruver team averaging 43.5 points per game.

Valley (5-2, 2-0) at Motley County (7-0, 2-0)

7 p.m. Friday, Titus Stadium

Last week: Valley 51, Paducah 26; Motley County 66, Crowell 16

The Patriots aim to remain unbeaten in District 2-1A Division II play and score an upset against one of the top six-man teams in the Lone Star State.

Lazbuddie (4-3, 2-0) at Anton (6-0, 1-0)

7 p.m. Friday, Bulldog Stadium

Last week: Lazbuddie 51, Lorenzo 6; Anton 1, Amherst 0 (forfeit)

Each of the Longhorns losses this season have come at the hands of an unbeaten opponent, but head coach Shawn Kerr's team has a chance to end that streak in Week 9.

This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Canyon football meets Randall for our Game of the Week

Spalletti Safe for Now but Juventus Line Up Successors

Luciano Spalletti will live to fight another day, as Juventus won’t pull the trigger as quickly as last season. Their new brass prefers stability and hasn’t completely lost faith in the gaffer. However, contingency plans are being prepared should the situation unravel, La Repubblica reports.

Igor Tudor was axed quickly last season because there was a ready-made top-notch replacement. While the fans are clamoring for the return of Antonio Conte, the officials have made no move in that direction and appear to have other ideas in case of a coaching change. The veteran has taken over a team mid-season just once in recent years, Tottenham.

Spalletti will have a few more matches to try to right the ship and mend the Juventus locker room. Francisco Conceiçao will miss about a month due to a shoulder sprain. The gaffer will seize the opportunity to use either a three-man defense or a two-man attack more often.

If the Bianconeri don’t improve, the brass will likely turn to a caretaker manager, for instance, Stefano Pioli, and try to hire a touted manager next summer rather than pursuing Conte. The former Milan tactician worked with director Frederic Massara at Milan. Their main future targets would be Francesco Farioli, who’s doing well at Porto, and Simone Inzaghi, who could leave Al-Hilal.

Our Take on Juventus and Spalletti

The schedule is too busy to usher in a new boss, even if things have gotten ugly, and it also gets easier, so the manager could stick it out. If they don’t bounce back, it’d be silly not to give Conte at least a call to see if he’s willing to come back before pivoting toward uninspiring solutions.

Newcastle's Thiaw and Inter's Bisseck among transfer targets Leverkusen missed out on

Bayer Leverkusen have gone from having three players in Germany’s starting XI at Euro 2024 to being completely absent from Jürgen Klopp’s extended 44-man squad.

According to Sport Bild, this is a source of considerable frustration for Leverkusen’s decision-makers, who actually made an effort to sign German players over the summer.

The report claims that Die Werkself targeted Malick Thiaw (Newcastle United), Yann Bisseck (Inter Milan), Angelo Stiller (Stuttgart), Chris Führich (Stuttgart) and Julian Brandt (Ajax) – but ultimately didn't end up signing any of them.

Thiaw and Stiller reportedly turned down the opportunity to join Leverkusen, while Bisseck was deemed too expensive.

As for Führich, Leverkusen ultimately strengthened their wings by signing Afonso Moreira and Moussa Diaby instead.

Bayer Leverkusen CEO Fernando Carro was reportedly keen to bring former Werkself player Julian Brandt back to the club following the midfielder’s contract expiry at Borussia Dortmund. 

However, Carro was unable to secure sufficient support within the club, and Brandt ultimately moved to Ajax instead.

Giuliano Simeone: Man United learn major obstacle in January pursuit of Atletico Madrid star

Manchester United’s difficult start to the new season is likely to see them push for squad reinforcements at the turn of the year. The Red Devils are 13th in the league table after seven games, with just one win to their name.

Michael Carrick is under tremendous pressure after failing to live up to the promise he showed as a caretaker manager. However, the general belief is that the English giants also lack the squad depth required to compete at the highest level.

United’s inability to keep goals out could see them strengthen the backline in January. A new left-back and a new centre-back is expected to be on the agenda, but the team’s unimpressive performances in the final third could also force INEOS to consider attacking reinforcements.

A previous report relayed by The Peoples Person suggests that they have their eyes on Atletico Madrid forward Giuliano Simeone to strengthen their frontline.

Simeone just what United need

United’s attack appears to have lost its edge this season, with the team managing just 10 goals in seven Premier League games so far. Five of them were scored against Ipswich Town in the 5-2 victory, and the Red Devils have managed just five goals in the last five league games, failing to win any of them.

Bryan Mbeumo has not been in his element this season, while Amad only just returned from an injury. The English giants have lacked intensity in the final third and this is where someone like Simeone could make a difference.

G. Simeone

The Argentine’s experience, relentless running and tenacity could be just what the doctor ordered for Carrick in the middle of the campaign. However, it now appears that securing his services in January may not be possible.

Simeone unlikely to leave in January

According to Football Insider, United will struggle to prise Simeone away from the Metropolitano Stadium in January. The report states: “Manchester United will find it ‘difficult’ to sign Atletico Madrid forward Giuliano Simeone in the January transfer window, sources have told Football Insider.”

“The Red Devils have the 23-year-old on their radar as a potential winter target, but it won’t be easy for them to prise him away from the Spanish capital.”

The report insists that Diego Simeone has no desire to let his son leave Atletico Madrid at the turn of the year. It continues: “Simeone plays under his father Diego at the Wanda Metropolitano, and it is understood that the boss is ‘counting’ on his son moving forward.”

However, the report also adds that the Red Devils have other priorities in the winter transfer window, stating: “Sources say that United’s ‘priority’ for the upcoming window is to strengthen their defence, rather than add any more attacking options.”

Final Thoughts

Simeone’s arrival could improve United’s attack, but all signs indicate that this move is unlikely to materialise. The Red Devils, instead, should focus on Premier League-proven alternatives who can hit the ground running at Old Trafford.

The Peoples Person Reliability Assessment Overall credibility: 6/10

Why?

✅ Giuliano Simeone has been linked with a move to United in previous reports. ⚠️ The Argentine remains an important figure for Atletico Madrid.

TPP view

We believe that it is quite unlikely that Simeone will move to Old Trafford in January.

Week 9 of the Texas high school football season is here, and district races are getting serious.

Several games across the Wichita Falls area this week could significantly affect playoff positioning, while a few others give teams a chance to build much-needed momentum heading into the final stretch of the regular season.

Legacy is looking to bounce back on the road; Memorial gets a shot at one of the hottest teams in District 2-5A Division II, and District 4-4A Division II features a pair of intriguing matchups.

Here are five games to keep an eye on this week, along with our predictions.

More: See Dave Campbell's Texas high school football rankings for Week 9

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Legacy (4-3, 1-2) at Lubbock Coronado (1-7, 0-4)

Legacy was painfully close to picking up a big district win last week.

The Leopards went toe-to-toe with Abilene Cooper before falling 41-35, and while a loss is still a loss, there were plenty of encouraging signs from an offense that showed it can put points on the board.

Coronado has had a much tougher time finding that kind of consistency. The Mustangs are winless in district play and coming off a 48-6 loss to Lubbock-Cooper.

Road games in Lubbock are never automatic, but this feels like a good opportunity for Legacy to get back on track and put itself right back in the thick of the playoff race.

Prediction: Legacy 38, Coronado 20

Amarillo Palo Duro (7-1, 4-0) at Memorial (3-4, 1-2)

Palo Duro has been rolling through district play and comes to Wichita Falls sitting alone atop the standings at 4-0. The Dons have been explosive offensively, including a 53-10 win against Abilene Wylie last week.

They've also already shown what they can do against a Wichita Falls opponent, beating Legacy 50-9 earlier in the season.

Memorial has enough talent to make things interesting, especially at home, but the Mavericks will need to play one of their most complete games of the season to pull off the upset.

Palo Duro simply looks like the more complete team right now.

Prediction: Palo Duro 56, Memorial 27

Burkburnett (5-2, 1-1) at Graham (7-0, 2-0)

Burkburnett has quietly put together a very good season and enters Friday with five wins in seven games. The Bulldogs are coming off a hard-earned 21-13 win over Iowa Park and have shown they can win close, physical games.

Unfortunately for Burkburnett, though, Graham hasn't shown many weaknesses.

The Steers are still unbeaten at 7-0 and just handed previously undefeated Mineral Wells its first loss of the season. Graham has consistently found ways to control games and has looked like one of the area's strongest teams since Week 1.

Burkburnett should make Graham work for it, but until somebody proves otherwise, it's hard to pick against the Steers.

Prediction: Graham 35, Burkburnett 17

Brock (6-1, 2-0) at Iowa Park (3-4, 0-2)

Iowa Park could probably use a break in its schedule right about now.

The Hawks have lost three straight after opening the season 3-1, and this week's opponent isn't exactly ideal for a team trying to snap a skid.

Brock is 6-1 and has been absolutely rolling lately. The Eagles scored 56 points against Glen Rose before putting up 77 in a shutout win against Bridgeport last week.

Iowa Park has been competitive for most of the season and should benefit from playing at home, but Brock's offense is operating at a different level right now.

If the Hawks can turn this into a lower-scoring, possession-based game, they can give themselves a chance. If Brock gets rolling early, however, it could be a long night.

Prediction: Brock 48, Iowa Park 14

Breckenridge (1-6, 1-1) at Holliday (2-5, 2-0)

The Eagles had a difficult start to the season, but things have looked much different since district play began. Holliday has won two straight and sits 2-0 in district after another huge offensive performance last week.

A team that spent much of the season searching for answers suddenly has some real momentum.

Breckenridge picked up its first win of the season against City View, but the Buckaroos couldn't keep that momentum going in a 38-6 loss to Jacksboro last week.

Holliday's offense appears to be finding its rhythm at exactly the right time, and playing at home only adds to the advantage.

This might have looked like a toss-up a few weeks ago, but right now, Holliday feels like the safer pick.

Prediction: Holliday 42, Breckenridge 30

This article originally appeared on Wichita Falls Times Record News: Who wins Week 9? 5 Texoma high school football predictions

One of the most highly anticipated rookie classes in NBA history will make their debut this October.

No. 2 overall pick and Canton native Darryn Peterson will make his long-awaited NBA debut in the Utah Jazz's 2026-27 season opener on Oct. 21. This matchup will be extra special as Peterson faces off against Cameron Boozer, who was selected No. 3 in the same draft.

The former Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy star already showed what he was capable of during the preseason. Now the 6-foot-5 guard coming out of Kansas will look to stamp his name in his first official contest.

"I have a ton of pride being from Canton, Ohio. It’s a place where not a lot of people make it out. It’s a place where chasing a dream isn’t the usual. So, I carry that everywhere I go. Keeps me humble. Keeps me grateful to know where I came from," Peterson said in a recent interview with Andscape.

More: NBA star CJ McCollum's Oregon winery releases estate grown wines

"The McCollom brothers [Errick and CJ] were inspirations to me growing up because it showed me that you can make it from Canton," he said. "That isn’t a thing that’s super normal where we’re from. So, they were role models for me, and then I was able to work out with them as I got older. That was huge for my preparation as well. Appreciated it every time."

Here's what to know ahead of the Jazz-Grizzlies game.

When is Darryn Peterson's first NBA game?

Tipoff: 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 21, FedExForum, Memphis

What TV channel is the Jazz vs. Grizzlies game on?

If you're in Ohio or outside the team's local market, the game will not be available on TV.

Local broadcasts for Grizzlies games will be on DAZN, and the Jazz game will be on KJZZ 14.

How to stream the Jazz vs. Grizzlies game live online

The game will be available to stream on NBA League Pass.

How did the Jazz and Grizzlies do last season?

The Utah Jazz were at the bottom of the standings last year, finishing 22-60 and placing 15th in the Western Conference. The team looks to take a step now, with a roster boasting former all-stars Lauri Markkanen and Jaren Jackson Jr., as well as sophomore Ace Bailey, Brice Sensabaugh and Keyonte George.

The Memphis Grizzlies didn't fare much better, finishing 25-70 and earning the No. 13 spot in the West. The team will have a new look thanks to the addition of Boozer and the move to trade Ja Morant. Other notable players include 7-footer Zach Edey, Cedric Coward and GG Jackson.

What is the spread for the Utah Jazz game?

The Jazz are favored by 2.5 points according to FanDuel.

Reach Aaron at 330-580-8428 or ahhughes@usatodayco.com. On X: @AaronHughe2

This article originally appeared on The Repository: What channel is the Jazz game? How to watch Darryn Peterson's debut

The Jacksonville Jaguars have arrived at their bye week. After going 4-2 through the first six games, the team will use this week to rest as they prepare for the remainder of the season.

The team had several strong performances in their opening slate of games with two one-score losses against potential playoff opponents. They have had contributions from several key players and a few players who’ve stepped up as they were thrusted into larger roles.

The Jaguars drafted 10 players in April as they try to continue fleshing out the “Jaguars DNA” in the building.

From Coen: Jaguars coach Liam Coen staying optimistic despite 1-1 London trip

A few of those players have already become routine contributors for the club, with several still clawing their way through the ranks of the roster. With the offseason program, training camp, preseason and six regular season games behind us, let’s take a look at how each of the draft picks shape up.

It should be noted, Bryan Thomas Jr. was an undrafted free agent who made the roster. He isn’t included in this list because he wasn’t drafted.

TE Nate Boerkircher, Texas A&M (Round 2, Pick 56)

Boerkircher has fallen into the routine contributor category through six games with the Jaguars. He’s allowed them to play more 12 and 13 personnel (two and three tight end sets) as well as free Brenton Strange to become more involved in the passing game. Boerkircher caught his first touchdown as a professional against the Texans — a nice one-handed snag with a defender glued to him. He’s trending upward as the team continues through the season.

DT Albert Regis, Texas A&M (Round 3, Pick 81)

Regis is a player who started coming on strong just before the season but was derailed by an injury in the wanning days of training camp. Then he hurt his elbow during a practice and has been inactive for the last several games. However, head coach Liam Coen said Regis and fellow rookie Wesley Williams had a strong week of practice in London. Coen called the Thursday practice prior to the game against the Texans one of the most physical practices of the season and gave kudos to those two for their efforts. That’s a good sign as Regis comes along.

G Emmanuel Pregnon, Oregon (Round 3, Pick 88)

Pregnon might be the best draft pick in the rookie class for the Jaguars. The rookie out of Oregon earned a starting spot on Jacksonville’s offensive line in training camp and hasn’t looked back. He’s a player who constantly receives compliments from coaches when he’s asked about — which isn’t always the case with young players. The rookie lineman has also been celebrated on film breakdowns for his physicality against opponents. He’s been key to Jacksonville’s revamped rushing attack and is continuing to trend in a positive direction.

DB Jalen Huskey, Maryland (Round 3, Pick 100)

Huskey is a player who had a relatively quiet offseason program and start to training camp. He flashed once pads went on and physicality increased, though. He made plays in multiple of Jacksonville’s preseason games and seemed like he was primed to see the field early in his career in major spurts. That hasn’t materialized yet as he’s been inactive for several of Jacksonville’s games to start the season. Even as fellow safety Caleb Ransaw headed to IR, the Jaguars turned to their practice squad rather than Huskey. It’s not an inditement of the type of player he’ll be, but he hasn’t had an immediate impact the way he was projected to.

DE Wesley Williams, Duke (Round 4, Pick 119)

As previously noted, Williams was credited by Coen for having a strong week of practice prior to the game against the Texans. He’s another player who’s routinely been inactive through the first six games of the season. To be fair, he’s at a position where the Jaguars have already allocated several position spots ahead of him. He showed some versatility to play inside and outside on the defensive line, something that will be valuable when his number is called. For now, he can keep stacking good days in practice as he gets used to life in the NFL.

TE Tanner Koziol, Houston (Round 5, Pick 164)

The big body tight end, standing at 6-foot-7, with dynamic catch making ability hasn’t displayed that aspect of his game yet, but it’s still very early in his career. He’s appeared in four of the six games this season as a depth tight end. Koziol has been part of Jacksonville’s revamped rushing attack as he allows Coen the ability to play multiple tight ends at the same time. It’s good flexibility to have as each of the tight ends can clear space as run blockers while also serving as receivers in the case of play action passes. Koziol will continue to be a vital piece of Jacksonville’s offense as the season goes on.

WR Josh Cameron, Baylor (Round 6, Pick 191)

Quite possibly the steal of the draft, Cameron wears so many hats for the Jaguars it’s hard to keep track at times. He’s a kick returner, punt protector, pass catcher, run blocker, energy player and so much more. He’s had a strong start to his career with multiple touchdown passes and high usage in Jacksonville’s offense due to his physical run blocking ability. Cameron is a player who is on an upward trend, and it could get higher after Jacksonville’s bye week. Coen and company will be evaluating everything this week and if they see a way to implement Cameron more, they’ll do it. On a team that’s loaded with receivers, Cameron has already become a fixture with the Jaguars.

WR C.J. Williams, Stanford (Round 6, Pick 203)

Williams had a very strong campaign this summer. He made several impressive catches during the offseason program and seemed like he was primed to earn immediate play with Jacksonville’s offense. That hasn’t been the case through the first six weeks as Williams has been inactive for many of Jacksonville’s games. Williams is a player who could see his number called depending on what happens with Brian Thomas Jr., but as of now the sixth round selection hasn’t made a real impact.

DE Zach Durfee, Washington (Round 7, Pick 233)

Durfee had a strong showing in training camp around the time that the team did their intersquad scrimmage. He was injured shortly after and tapered off a bit as he missed on-field time. He was placed on the injured reserved list with a designation to return.

LB Parker Hughes, Middle Tennessee (Round 7, Pick 240)

Hughes was placed on the season-ending injured reserve list during training camp. Prior to that he was battling for a depth roster spot.

This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Rookie Report: Updates on Jaguars' draftees at bye week

FBL-EUR-C1-PSG-BARCELONA - AFPEnglish pundit praises Spanish midfielder

Cole has labelled Ruiz one of the most underrated players in football history following his tireless contributions for both Les Parisiens and Spain over the past year. The versatile midfielder sealed victory for the reigning European champions in the 86th minute by converting a cross at the back post to establish a two-goal cushion. Desire Doue's 38th-minute opener had earlier been cancelled out by Xavi Espart in the 55th minute.

Late strike settles frantic contestLate strike settles frantic contest

Following that equaliser, a breathless 14-minute spell produced four further goals as both heavyweights traded blows. Lucas Hernandez restored the hosts' lead in the 72nd minute before Lamine Yamal levelled in the 79th minute, only for fellow unsung midfielder Vitinha to strike in the 81st minute prior to Ruiz wrapping up all three points.

Reflecting on the clinching goal and the Spaniard's wider impact during his punditry duties for TNT Sports, Cole said: "They put it to bed. [He] could be the most underrated player of all time."

Glittering trophy cabinet underlines pedigree

That glowing verdict comes on the back of a remarkable 12 months in which the midfielder lifted the World Cup with his country in the summer alongside winning both the French top flight and the Champions League at club level.

Highlighting his haul of major honours and his importance to Luis Enrique's starting line-up, Cole added: "He's won everything in the game, Champions League, does his job, always in. And what I would say is, they look a stronger side with him in."

Signed from Napoli in 2022, Tuesday night's strike marked his 18th goal across 178 appearances for the French capital outfit. During his spell with the Ligue 1 heavyweights, he has captured four league titles, two Coupes de France, three Trophees des Champions, two Champions League crowns, two UEFA Super Cups and one FIFA Intercontinental Cup.

Consistent performer anchors title defence

Overcoming their Catalan visitors hands PSG three vital points as they look to defend their continental crown during the league phase. Ruiz will once again be expected to anchor Enrique's midfield when the French champions return to domestic Ligue 1 action this weekend. Conversely, Barcelona must quickly regroup from their setback in Paris as they prepare for their upcoming domestic and European commitments.

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While Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Liam Coen doesn't expect the team to change its process during the Week 7 bye, general manager James Gladstone doesn't have to stand pat.

The Jaguars are in a favorable position. The team is 4-2 through six weeks and is a couple of plays away from being undefeated. While their recent loss to the Houston Texans may have taken some wind out of their sails, the team remains one of the NFL's powerhouses.

Jacksonville opted not to invest heavily in outside free agents this offseason. While salary cap restrictions played a role, Jacksonville also wanted to re-sign or extend some of its own players.

HOPE: Why Shad Khan feels great about Jaguars, Jacksonville’s transformation

That included receiver Jakobi Meyers and tackle Cole Van Lanen during the year, and cornerback Montaric Brown, linebacker Dennis Gardeck and tight end Quintin Morris among the group of guys re-signed when free agency began. Jacksonville also extended defensive end Travon Walker ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft in April.

The team extended long snapper Ross Matiscik and tight end Brenton Strange ahead of training camp.

The Jaguars signed running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. as their lone outside free-agent signee during the early window of free agency.

Still, despite little roster movement from outside the building this spring, the Jaguars could take a look at what's available on the trade market over the next few weeks.

When is the 2026 NFL trade deadline?

The 2026 NFL trade deadline is on Tuesday, Nov. 10 at 4:00 p.m. ET, just after Week 9 of the regular season.

The Jaguars will return from a road trip to face the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday Night Football as the NFL trade deadline approaches.

Jaguars trade targets stacked on defense

If the Jaguars are active on the trade market, they'll focus on defense.

While the Jaguars boast an elite run-stopping defense, back-end failures offset that success.

Jacksonville ranks fourth in EPA/rush on defense at -0.137, while ranking 18th in the league in EPA/dropback at 0.035. Context helps explain why the team allows 273.8 passing yards per game (30th), but that shouldn't excuse it.

Jacksonville has forced four red-zone interceptions this year, often on days when teams have an easy time between the 20s. Still, while these stats may point to an upgrade in the secondary inbound, it could be the team's linemen who see a shakeup in their room. Well, maybe a corner, too.

Here are four trade targets the Jaguars should watch ahead of the deadline.

Zach Sieler, DL, Miami Dolphins

Sieler, 31, has spent the last seven seasons in Miami after being drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the seventh round of the 2018 NFL Draft. The Dolphins claimed him off waivers in 2019.

The veteran pass-rushing defensive tackle has been one of the NFL's best at getting the quarterback in recent years. In 2023-24, Sieler posted back-to-back 10-sack seasons. Last year, Sieler netted 5.5 sacks and he has two so far this year.

He'd immediately upgrade Jacksonville's interior defensive line, letting the team split his and Arik Armstead's reps or find different combinations to increase pass-rush opportunities.

Potential trade cost: third- or fourth-round pick

Daron Payne, DL, Washington Commanders

The Commanders drafted Payne, 29, with a first-round pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. He's spent his entire career with the club, playing in 135 games (129 starts). Payne has 443 tackles (241 solos), 85 quarterback hits, eight forced fumbles, an interception, 25 batted passes, 66 tackles for loss, and 38 sacks.

Payne has had 11 sacks combined in the last three seasons. His career high came in 2022, when he recorded 11.5 sacks. Though Payne hasn't been as productive lately, he could be an ideal trade target as he enters the final year of his deal. If the Commanders are willing to pay some of his base salary to make the deal work, Jacksonville should take the one-year flier opportunity.

Potential trade cost: 2027 fourth-round pick

Moro Ojomo, DL, Philadelphia Eagles

Ojomo, 25, is in the final year of his rookie deal with the Eagles after the team drafted him in the seventh round of the 2023 NFL Draft.

Ojomo recorded six sacks last year, playing in all 17 games (nine starts) while Jalen Carter was banged up for part of the 2025 campaign. Ojomo is viewed as a rising player and would likely command a significant contract on the open market. Before that, the Eagles could get compensation early by sending him to Jacksonville for a Day 2 pick.

The Jaguars need help inside. Armstead is in the final year of his contract, and no other interior defender has shown enough pass-rush consistency. An overhaul is coming to the Jacksonville interior d-line, and they may shuffle the deck a bit early.

Potential trade cost: Third-round pick

Emmanuel Forbes Jr., CB, Los Angeles Rams

Forbes, 25, was originally drafted by the Washington Commanders in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft.

After a middling rookie campaign, the Commanders waived Forbes in 2024. The Los Angeles Rams quickly claimed the former Mississippi State standout and have gotten a lot out of him.

In 2025, Forbes played in all 17 games (14 starts), posting 45 tackles (32 solos), 18 pass breakups and three interceptions. Still, he was consistent enough to earn a 53.8 overall PFF grade, but the Rams demoted him after acquiring Trent McDuffie via trade and signing Jaylen Watson in free agency.

Forbes shouldn't cost much, and if Jacksonville no longer envisions Brian Thomas Jr. in its long-term plans, it could send him to Forbes for a package of picks.

Potential trade cost: 2027 sixth-round pick or part of a trade package sent for Thomas.

Demetrius Harvey is the Jacksonville Jaguars reporter for the Florida Times-Union. You can follow him on X (formerly Twitter) at @Demetrius82 or on Bluesky at Demetrius.

If you're a subscriber, thank you. If not, please consider subscribing to support local journalism in Northeast Florida.

This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Jaguars trade targets centers on defense with struggles in pass game

When Miles Russell of Jacksonville Beach hits his first tee shot on Oct. 22 in the PGA Tour's Butterfield Bermuda Championship, he will have had almost as many professional starts as he has years on this earth.

Russell, 17 and the world's sixth-ranked amateur, will make his 15th start on either the PGA Tour or the Korn Ferry Tour at the FedEx Cup Fall event, played on the Port Royal Golf Course in Southampton, Bermuda. Russell played in the tournament in 2024 at the age of 15 and missed the cut. This will be his eighth PGA Tour start, to go with seven Korn Ferry Tour outings.

Russell is grouped with Ben James and David Ford in the first two rounds. They will tee off No. 10 at 1:11 p.m. on Oct. 22, and off No. 1 at 8:41 a.m. on Oct. 23.

Russell made the cut earlier this year at the U.S. Open (finishing tied for 39th) and at the Puerto Rico Open (tying for 50th). He also had his best finish in a pro tournament so far with a tie for 15th at the Korn Ferry Tour's Club Car Championship in Savannah.

Russell has made two cuts on the PGA Tour and three on the Korn Ferry Tour. He has a 71.9 scoring average in PGA Tour events and 69.75 on the Korn Ferry Tour.

TGL rosters announced

Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy return for the 2027 TGL season, the indoor virtual golf league that will have seven five-man teams beginning play on Dec. 27 at the SoFi Center in Palm Beach Gardens.

The league has expanded with the addition of the Motor City Golf Club with Brooks Koepka, Bud Cauley, Si Woo Kim, Jackson Koivun and Jake Knapp. Woods returns with the Jupiter Links Golf Club, with Max Homa, Tom Kim, Akshay Bhatia and Keith Mitchell of St. Simons Island, Ga.; and McIlroy is back to lead Boston Common Golf with Shane Lowry, Keegan Bradley, Michael Thorbjornsen of Jacksonville and Hideki Matsuyama.

The other TGL teams:

• Defending champion Los Angeles Golf Club: Collin Morikawa, Justin Rose, Tommy Fleetwood, Sahith Theegala, Ben James.
• Atlanta Drive Golf Club: The 2025 champions return Billy Horschel, Patrick Cantlay, Chris Gotterup, Justin Thomas and Michael Brennan.
• The Bay Golf Club: Ludvig Aberg of Nocatee, Ryan Fox, Wyndham Clark, Min Woo Lee, Blades Brown.
• New York Golf Club: Matt Fitzpatrick, Alex Fitzpatrick, Ben Griffin, and a pair of past Players champions, Cameron Young and Rickie Fowler.

Mixed PGA Tour/LPGA Tour teams announced

Defending champions Andrew Novak and Lauren Coughlin will return to the Grant Thornton Invitational Dec. 11-13 at the Tiburon Golf Club in Naples. The mixed-team event features PGA Tour and LPGA Tour players paired together for three rounds, using scramble, alternate shot and modified four-ball formats.

Novak and Coughlin shot 28-under to win by three shots.

Among the other 15 teams: women's world No. 1 Nelly Korda and Michael Brennan; Lydia Ko and Jason Day; 2024 champions Patty Tavatanakit and Jake Knapp; Lexi Thompson and Harris English; and Jennifer Kupcho and Chris Gotterup.

PGA Tour Champions playoffs begin

The PGA Tour Champions postseason begins on Oct. 23 with the Stifel Charity Classic at the Norwood Hills Country Club in St. Louis.

The top 72 players on the money list were eligible, with the top 54 after this week moving on to the Simmons Bank Championship Oct. 30-Nov. 1 in Little Rock, Ark. The top 36 after that will move on to the Phoenix Country Club Nov. 12-15 for the Charles Schwab Championship.

It likely will come down to three players for the season-long Schwab Cup: No. 1 Stewart Cink ($3,798,700), No. 2 Zach Johnson of St. Simons Island, Ga. ($3,314,368) and No. 2 Steven Alker ($2,265,087). They have combined to win 15 of the 25 PGA Tour Champions events so far this season, with no other player winning more than one.

Qualifying for the playoffs are Ponte Vedra Beach resident Vijay Singh (No. 33 on the money list) and Jacksonville native David Duval (59th).

PGA Tour

Event: Butterfield Bermuda Championship, Oct. 22-25, Port Royal Golf Course, Southampton, Bermuda.

Purse: $6 million ($1,080,000 and 500 FedEx Cup points to the winner).

Defending champion: Adam Schenk.

TV: Golf Channel (Oct. 22-25, 1-4 p.m.).

Area players: Chandler Blanchet, Jonathan Byrd, Adrien Dumont de Chassart, Will Gordon, Patton Kizzire, Ben Kohles, David Lingmerth, Andrew Novak, Paul Peterson, Miles Russell, Greyson Sigg, Davis Thompson, Alejandro Tosti, Danny Walker.

LPGA

Event: BMW Ladies Championship, Oct. 21/22-24/25, Pine Beach Lakes Golf Links, Haenam-gun, Jeollanam-do, Korea.

Purse: $2.35 million ($352,500 to the winner).

Defending champion: Sei Young Kim.

TV: Golf Channel (Oct. 21/22-24/25, 10 p.m.-3 a.m.).

Area players: Auston Kim.

PGA Tour Champions

Event: Stifel Charity Classic, Oct. 23-25, Norwood Hills Country Club, St. Louis.

Purse: $2.3 million ($414,000 to the winner).

Defending champion: Thomas Bjorn.

TV: Golf Channel (Oct. 23-25, 4-6 p.m.).

Area players (Schwab Cup ranking): Zach Johnson (2), Vijay Singh (33), David Duval (59).

This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Miles Russell makes second trip to Bermuda for 15th professional start

Texas A&M currently sits at 4-3 and 1-3 in SEC play after defeating The Citadel 41-0 in Week 7, needing a blowout victory to gain back some momentum before facing No. 13 Alabama in Tuscaloosa on Saturday afternoon. The Crimson Tide are coming off back-to-back losses to Georgia at home and Tennessee on the road, while sophomore QB Keelon Russell threw for less than 200 yards in both games.

The Aggies' offensive struggles are worse, starting with redshirt junior quarterback Marcel Reed's regression, which has fueled plenty of debate about sophomore signal caller Brady Hart's solid second-half performance on Saturday. Still, playing well against an undersized FCS team doesn't move the needle, as Reed is fully expected to make his eighth start of the season.

Texas A&M's defense will have its hands full against Alabama's offense, which has underperformed, but is still a threat to score 30 or more points per game thanks to Keelon Russell's arm talent and a young but formidable running back room. However, Texas A&M's porous pass rush will need to exploit Alabama's questionable offensive line, which ranked 129th in sacks allowed, with three per contest.

ABC will air Texas A&M vs. Alabama at 2:30 CT, while ESPN announced who will call Saturday's game in Tuscaloosa. Joe Tessitore and Jesse Palmer will be in the broadcast booth to call the game at Bryant-Denny Stadium, and Kris Budden will serve as the sideline reporter.

Hierarchy-wise, this is the No. 3 broadcast group behind Chris Fowler and Kirk Herbstreit, and Sean McDonough and Greg McElroy.

Texas A&M football schedule 2026

All times Central.

• Sept. 5: vs. Missouri State (W, 50-0)
• Sept. 12: vs. Arizona State (W, 48-20)
• Sept. 19: vs. Kentucky Wildcats (L, 31-21)
• Sept. 26: at LSU (L, 35-6)
• Oct. 3: vs. Arkansas (W, 34-7)
• Oct. 10: at Missouri (L, 27-6)
• Oct. 17: vs. The Citadel (W, 41-0)
• Oct. 24: at Alabama Crimson Tide, 2:30 p.m., ABC
• Nov. 7: at South Carolina Gamecocks, TBA
• Nov. 14: vs. Tennessee Volunteers, TBA
• Nov. 21: at Oklahoma Sooners, TBA
• Nov. 28: vs. Texas Longhorns, 6:30 p.m., ABC

Record: 4-3, 1-3 SEC

Contact/Follow us @AggiesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes and opinions. Follow Cameron on X: @CameronOhnysty.

This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: ESPN announces broadcast team for Texas A&M vs. Alabama in Week 8

One of Rudy Thomas’ daughters toured the Fountains at Mill Cove, a senior living community in Jacksonville, and thought it would be a good fit for him at this stage in his life.

She turned out to be right. But little did she or anyone, including Coach Rudy, really know what it would lead to — how at age 82, he’s coaching a basketball team of fellow residents, mostly women, many in wheelchairs, some playing basketball for the first time in their lives.

How the players voted on a team name: “Senior Moments.”

How they’ve given each other nicknames like Bulldog, Slim, Puddin’, Hot Shot, Booty, Shrimp.

How they say he’s made their lives better. And he says they’ve given him purpose to his life.

How he won a Florida Health Care Association award — Resident of the Year — that he says ranks right up there with any past honors, from high school to college to barnstorming with the Harlem Globetrotters. Which for Rudy Thomas isn’t a hypothetical comparison.

From Jacksonville to Globetrotters

When Thomas left Jacksonville more than 60 years ago, he was a talented and towering young basketball player — a 6-foot-7 center who played for Northwestern High School, became a key piece of a celebrated Western Washington University team and spent part of the 1970s playing for one of America’s most legendary basketball teams.

This was a Globetrotters era with Meadowlark Lemon and “Curly” Neal, a Saturday morning cartoon and multiple touring teams.

While most of the big names played on a team that packed large arenas in big cities, Thomas was on a team, coached by Globetrotters legend Marcus Haynes, that played in smaller venues in northern states, as many as 200 nights a year.

“At that stage of my life, it was all fun,” he says. “For the first year or so. After that, it’s a job.”

When that job ended, he found another one that kept him in the Seattle area and lasted for several decades, making him a beloved figured in city of Bellevue. He led youth recreation programs there, teaching kids how to dribble and shoot and more.

Just one example: When one of those kids became a high school star and valedictorian, the college essay he wrote to get into the University of Chicago was all about Coach Rudy.

When Thomas retired in 2012, he said he had no idea what he’d do next, but he was certain that he’d continue to volunteer somewhere. Not that he was picturing working with a whole new age group.

Basketball over bingo

A few years ago, diabetes led to him losing part of his left leg and ending up in a wheelchair. He returned to Jacksonville, settling into the Fountains, looking for something to do.

“I don’t like bingo that much,” he said.

So he had an idea.

Aaron Greenberg, the resident program director at the Fountains, recalls Thomas coming up to him and saying: “I want to start a basketball team.”

“I was like, ‘Why? Why would you want to do that? We’re going to send people to the hospital?’” Greenberg said. “He said, ‘Trust me.’”

Thomas went to Russell Ward, the Fountains executive director, with the idea. Ward laughs when he recalls his reaction. He asked Thomas if maybe he’d come down with something. A basketball team here,  a place full of senior residents in wheelchairs and scooters?

“He's like, "I'm serious. I can make this happen,’” Ward said. “You should’ve seen the passion in his eyes.”

Ward looked into those eyes and told him: OK, let’s do it.

They realized to do it, they needed equipment. Ward and Greenberg went on Amazon and ordered a basketball hoop with an adjustable height and balls in a variety of sizes.

For practices, they cleared the multi-use room that is used for everything from church to bingo to movie nights — but, until this point, not basketball.

Ward figured it would be a short-lived experiment. And in the beginning, there were just three women.

But the team quickly grew. And now, more than a year and a half later, they have a roster with 18 names (and nearly as many nicknames).

They give Phyllis Hazlitt credit for coming up with the “Senior Moments” name. They say this is better than some of the other ones that were suggested, like the Senior Dribblers or Golden Age Walkers.

They don’t play games. But they do have shirts for their practices — Senior Moments on Wednesdays and red ones, donated by his daughter who works for Nike, to honor veterans on Fridays. And they have competitions. But, in many ways, the actual basketball is secondary.

“Rudy has been able to take residents who haven't been out of chairs in years — and they’re standing up, exercising, participating,” Ward said. “There’s the camaraderie, just hanging out together. … It’s done so much for this community.”

As resident program director, Greenberg helps with the practice. But it’s clearly driven by Coach Rudy. And of this, Greenberg says: “We talk about how we want the culture of the staff to be here in the building. But culture of the residents is really important, too. And Rudy's that foundation, that brick that is laid down and builds culture with other residents.”

And beyond.

The Senior Moments have connected with the University of North Florida women’s basketball team. 

That’s part of what Ward finds endearing about what they’ve watched play out – this multigenerational interaction. He remembers being the age of these college students. He says you wouldn’t have got him to spend a Friday at the senior center. But that’s what the UNF women’s players have done.

“They came here and met Rudy,” he said. “He’s talking to them and there’s not a chirp. Nobody’s rolling their eyes or playing on their phone. They were just sucking in everything he had to say.”

And not only have they spent time with the Senior Moments, but the Senior Moments have gone to UNF games and Jacksonville Waves games. Which adds another layer to the story.

When some of the women on the Senior Moments were growing up, they were told that girls don’t play sports. Now they’re not only watching young women play basketball, they’re playing.

Senior Moments from the start

Sheila Smith and Karen Lee have been on the team from the start. 

Sheila’s nickname is “Shrimp.” She says it’s because she’s 5-foot-3. Lee’s is PITA. She explains with a smile that she earned this by being a “pain in the …”

They’re both in their 80s. Ask them if they ever played basketball before, and they both quickly say, “No.”

Lee says of her participation: “It was reciprocal. I got Rudy to church, and he got me to basketball.”

They talk about how being on the Senior Moments has made grandchildren proud — and what the experience has meant for them. How it gets them out of their rooms and much more.

“I never knew these ladies, but now we're a team, and it's lovely — and it’s all because Rudy started it,” Smith said, glancing over at their coach and adding with a smile: “He keeps us going. He yells at us.”

“Nothing but love,” Thomas says, thumping a fist against his chest.

That, they explain, is how they end each practice.

Resident of the Year

All of this led to the Florida Health Care Association giving Rudy Thomas the 2026 Joe Negron Resident of the Year award.

He was presented with the award at an event in Orlando. There were several hundred executives from around the state in a big auditorium. When Thomas received his award, he made all of them stand up and say something.

As Ward tells this story, he looks over at Thomas and says, “What did you say? What did you tell them to say?”

He knows the answer. But he wants Rudy to say it.

"Nothing but love."

Another practice

Walk into the Fountains on a Wednesday or Friday afternoon and you hear the sound of basketball coming from the multi-purpose room.

A whistle, shouts of instruction, the thump-thump of basketballs on the floor.

“Listen, when you're dribbling the basketball, put some authority behind it,” Coach Rudy says.

He demonstrates, showing the technique he’s talking about, using the fingertips and force. 

“See how responsive it is when you do it the right way,” he says. “As long as you're doing it the right way, the basketball's going to come back. It's going to be your best friend, but you gotta act like you own it.”

They run through some more drills. They practice passing one ball after another to a shooter, and rotating positions.

All the while there is a mix of seriousness and fun. They say you should’ve seen them in the beginning. They’ve come a long way. It's not just that they're better individually, although that's true. It's that they are a team.

If you include all the basketball teams in Florida — the pros, college, high school, junior high, AAU, rec leagues and so on — the number probably tops 10,000.

In many ways, all are better than the Senior Moments. But, in some ways, none of them can compete with this team.

Coach Rudy blows his whistle. He asks how everyone is feeling and wraps up the practice with some parting words.

“You guys make me so happy and proud of each and every one of you,” he says. “Today was a lot of fun, a lot of fun. And I tell you what, I wouldn't trade it for anything.”

Then he adds one more thing. 

“Nothing but love,” the coach says, thumping a fist against his heart.

“Nothing but love,” repeat the Senior Moments.

This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Former Harlem Globetrotter starts basketball team at senior community

DeLand and Mainland headline a Week 10 slate with three Volusia-Flagler matchups.

The Bulldogs (7-1) and Buccaneers (4-3) are the highest-ranked local teams in the MaxPreps rankings, with Mainland checking in at No. 37 and DeLand at No. 44. Neither program has come particularly close to losing to another Volusia-Flagler squad.

The Bulldogs enter this tilt as winners of six straight, outscoring their opponents 315-21 in that stretch. The Bucs are coming off consecutive wins against Spruce Creek and Lake Mary.

Watch FHSAA football on NFHS Network

And as if the stakes weren't high enough, the winner leaves with the District 2-6A title.

Seabreeze hosts Pine Ridge, and University visits Spruce Creek as the other local-vs.-local affairs. Father Lopez is the only program resting this week.

Here's the full Volusia-Flagler area Week 10 football schedule.

Volusia-Flagler area high school football schedule, Week 10

Pine Ridge at Seabreeze, 7 p.m. (Thursday)

Winter Springs at Deltona, 7 (Thursday)

Flagler Palm Coast at Atlantic Coast, 6:30

Bishop Moore at New Smyrna Beach, 7

DeLand at Mainland, 7

Halifax at Eagle’s View, 7

Interlachen at Atlantic, 7

University at Spruce Creek, 7

West Port at Matanzas, 7

BYE: Father Lopez

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Florida high school football schedule Week 10: Every Volusia-Flagler game

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