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Ligue 1 Review | Road to redemption for Liam Rosenior as Paris FC stake claim for Europe

At the start of 2026, Liam Rosenior would arrive at Chelsea with a promising reputation earned during his time at their sister club RC Strasbourg Alsace. Three months later, he would leave London with his tail between his legs and his stock in England at an all-time low. In truth, he was on a hiding to nothing the moment he took the job and replaced Enzo Maresca. For Chelsea supporters, particularly those who have never bought into the BlueCo project, Rosenior was considered little more than a yes-man for unpopular owners. 

Rosenior didn’t exactly endear himself, as The Athletic reported there were reservations within the squad about his communication. Comparisons with characters from English TV shows quickly began to appear online, with Rosenior emulating Will from The Inbetweeners and David Brent from The Office. One moment – albeit one that came during his time at Strasbourg – particularly stood out when he philosophised on the etymology of the word manage: “In English, the word manage –  if you split the two words, it’s man age – you’re ageing men.”

This on its own wouldn’t have been enough; Mikel Arteta has had some choice moments during his time in charge of Arsenal, such as when he brought in pickpockets to steal from his squad at a team dinner to drive home a point on always remaining alert. However, the key difference between the two ‘agers of men’ was that Arteta was winning games, while Rosenior would be sacked after a five-game losing streak in the league (wherein his side went goalless). 

A fresh start for Liam Rosenior

In the summer, Rosenior was given the chance to return to a country that had proven to be far more receptive to his ideas by becoming the figurehead of the Paris FC project. It was perhaps a dream job for a head coach on the rebound. Paris are one of the few clubs in Ligue 1 that can buck the league-wide trend of needing to sell before they can buy due to being backed by the billions of the Arnault family. 

While other teams have to tear down and rebuild, Paris, in their second consecutive season in the top flight, could consolidate and grow. And how they have grown. Deadwood, especially in attack, was stripped from the club with the misfiring Willem Geubbels sold to US Lecce, while the immobile Ciro Immobile retired in the summer. In their place, some of Ligue 1’s more exciting talent in Lassine Sinayoko and Pablo Pagis have come in and have made Paris one of the more electrifying teams in attack. 

However, as pointed out by the excellent Paris FC English Substack, what has been all the more impressive has been the way Rosenior has raised the levels of the players already present at the club. In defence, it’s the same faces as last season (with Diego Coppola’s loan made permanent), but they are looking far more solid. Before Sunday’s 4-3 win over Stade Rennais, Paris had the best defence in the league. And in truth, they should have maintained that record as Rennes created little to nothing from open play, scoring all three goals from individual mistakes causing avoidable penalties. 

Paris FC at the top

The victory put Paris joint top of the table alongside Paris Saint-Germain, Lille OSC, AS Monaco, and later Olympique Lyonnais, and laid down a marker. Paris have made no secret of their ambition to become a regular fixture in European qualification. In dispatching Rennes, a team that they hope will become one of their European rivals, they’ve shown that their dream could soon become a reality. 

Rosenior returned to France with a point to prove and a reputation to restore; becoming the man to lead Paris on their journey to glory would go a long way to addressing both. The season is, of course, long and full of twists and turns, but the early signs have been very promising and suggest that Les Parisiens have a manager to match their ambitions. 

This week’s Ligue 1 subplots

• Esteban Lepaul would take pole position in the race for the golden boot in France, following his hat-trick of penalties against Paris. However, the France international would limp off at the end of the game. He now looks set to miss Rennes’ clash with Juventus. Read the full story HERE.

• Olympique de Marseille would make it two consecutive wins in Ligue 1 by dispatching Angers SCO in a 5-2 win. The club started the September international break in the relegation zone, but now sit 9th. Read how it happened HERE.

• Luis Enrique dismissed Maresca’s criticism of the quality of Ligue 1 following PSG’s win over Manchester City. The PSG boss fired back, calling it the “typical noise” surrounding his club. Read the full quotes HERE.

This feature is a repost from Get French Football News and can be found HERE

GFN | Nick Hartland  

COLUMBIA — South Carolina football coach Shane Beamer doesn't know which quarterback his defense will face against No. 11 Tennessee.

George MacIntyre, a sophomore, led the Vols to a 26-10 win over No. 13 Alabama last week. Freshman Faizon Brandon won the battle initially, starting five games before hurting his shoulder. Brandon was available vs Alabama but did not play.

The Gamecocks (3-3, 1-3 SEC) host Tennessee (6-1, 3-1) on Oct. 24 at 3:30 p.m. ET on ESPN, and Tennessee coach Josh Heupel has not named a starter.

“Both really really good players,” Beamer said Oct. 20 during his weekly press conference. “Brandon was a high school teammate of (South Carolina freshman DB) Kosci Barnes, so I remember going to ... Grimsley High School to check in on Kosci and Josh Heupel literally arrived at the same moment I did, and we were there at the same time … got a ton of respect for his ability."

Brandon is 61-of-101 for 697 passing yards, with seven touchdowns and one interception. He was sacked 10 times in the Vols' lone loss to Texas.

"MacIntyre ... you see him continuing to get better each and every week," Beamer said. "With his ability to run the offense, get rid of the ball when it's not there in the passing game, sit in the pocket, throw the ball downfield, but make good decisions and continue to play winning football. And that's what I think both those guys are doing a great job of is playing winning football.”

MacIntyre went 21-of-31 for 197 passing yards, zero touchdowns and one interception in the win over Alabama. On the season, he's he's 53-of-80 for 592 passing yards with two touchdowns and three interceptions.

"You gotta be prepared for both quarterbacks. Both quarterbacks are hell of a player, I think there's a reason why both quarterbacks have played," Gamecocks starting defensive lineman Tomiwa Durojaiye said. "I see an offense that's running like a well-oiled machine right now."

What Shane Beamer said about South Carolina's 2022 win over Tennessee

Tennessee hasn't been to Williams-Brice Stadium since Nov. 19, 2022, when the Gamecocks upset the then No. 5 ranked Vols 63-38, knocking them out of playoff contention.

The Gamecocks scored so many touchdowns they ran out of fireworks and it remains one of Beamer's biggest wins.

"I think I touched on it this morning for maybe five seconds in the team meeting, but it was more that you know Tennessee hasn't been in Columbia since 2022," Beamer said. "More important than reminiscing about that night is understanding how well we played that night in all three phases and preparing that way this week to go up against you know a completely different Tennessee team that was a great challenge back in 2022. It'll be a great challenge this Saturday also."

The Vols got revenge a season later with a 41-20 victory in Knoxville but the two teams haven't met since.

Lulu Kesin covers South Carolina athletics for The Greenville News and the USA TODAY Network. Email her at LKesin@usatodayco.com. Follow her on X@Lulukesin and Bluesky ‪@bylulukesin.bsky.social‬

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: What South Carolina's Shane Beamer said about Tennessee's quarterback situation

COLUMBIA — South Carolina football coach Shane Beamer doesn't know which quarterback his defense will face against No. 11 Tennessee.

George MacIntyre, a sophomore, led the Vols to a 26-10 win over No. 13 Alabama last week. Freshman Faizon Brandon won the battle initially, starting five games before hurting his shoulder. Brandon was available vs Alabama but did not play.

The Gamecocks (3-3, 1-3 SEC) host Tennessee (6-1, 3-1) on Oct. 24 at 3:30 p.m. ET on ESPN, and Tennessee coach Josh Heupel has not named a starter.

“Both really really good players,” Beamer said Oct. 20 during his weekly press conference. “Brandon was a high school teammate of (South Carolina freshman DB) Kosci Barnes, so I remember going to ... Grimsley High School to check in on Kosci and Josh Heupel literally arrived at the same moment I did, and we were there at the same time … got a ton of respect for his ability."

Brandon is 61-of-101 for 697 passing yards, with seven touchdowns and one interception. He was sacked 10 times in the Vols' lone loss to Texas.

"MacIntyre ... you see him continuing to get better each and every week," Beamer said. "With his ability to run the offense, get rid of the ball when it's not there in the passing game, sit in the pocket, throw the ball downfield, but make good decisions and continue to play winning football. And that's what I think both those guys are doing a great job of is playing winning football.”

MacIntyre went 21-of-31 for 197 passing yards, zero touchdowns and one interception in the win over Alabama. On the season, he's he's 53-of-80 for 592 passing yards with two touchdowns and three interceptions.

"You gotta be prepared for both quarterbacks. Both quarterbacks are hell of a player, I think there's a reason why both quarterbacks have played," Gamecocks starting defensive lineman Tomiwa Durojaiye said. "I see an offense that's running like a well-oiled machine right now."

What Shane Beamer said about South Carolina's 2022 win over Tennessee

Tennessee hasn't been to Williams-Brice Stadium since Nov. 19, 2022, when the Gamecocks upset the then No. 5 ranked Vols 63-38, knocking them out of playoff contention.

The Gamecocks scored so many touchdowns they ran out of fireworks and it remains one of Beamer's biggest wins.

"I think I touched on it this morning for maybe five seconds in the team meeting, but it was more that you know Tennessee hasn't been in Columbia since 2022," Beamer said. "More important than reminiscing about that night is understanding how well we played that night in all three phases and preparing that way this week to go up against you know a completely different Tennessee team that was a great challenge back in 2022. It'll be a great challenge this Saturday also."

The Vols got revenge a season later with a 41-20 victory in Knoxville but the two teams haven't met since.

Lulu Kesin covers South Carolina athletics for The Greenville News and the USA TODAY Network. Email her at LKesin@usatodayco.com. Follow her on X@Lulukesin and Bluesky ‪@bylulukesin.bsky.social‬

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: What South Carolina's Shane Beamer said about Tennessee's quarterback situation

Washington Commanders WR Terry McLaurin suffered a torn patellar tendon and will miss the rest of the season, according to head coach Dan Quinn.

SOURCE: ESPN's Adam Schefter

Why It Matters: Terry McLaurin going down is a hit to the Commanders' passing game. This should mean an uptick in targets for the likes of Stefon Diggs and Treylon Burks.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Terry McLaurin suffers torn patellar tendon, will miss rest of 2026

The 2026 NFL season is here and you're going to need all the help you can get to set your weekly fantasy football lineups. If you're participating in a Full-PPR fantasy football league, we've got you covered with our tight end rankings at all the positions. Below, you'll find the latest rankings from Yahoo analysts Justin Boone, Matt Harmon, Scott Pianowski, Joel Smyth and Hayden Winks for Full PPR formats.

Rankings from each Yahoo Fantasy analyst

• Justin Boone

• Matt Harmon

• Scott Pianowski

• Joel Smyth

• Hayden Winks

Consensus Half-PPR Rankings

• QB | RB | WR | TE | FLEX | D/ST | Kickers

Consensus Full-PPR Rankings

• RB | WR | TE | FLEX

Trade Value Charts (coming Wednesday)

• QB | RB | WR | TE

2026 Fantasy Football Week 7 Full PPR TE Rankings

Jul 26, 2023; Irvine, CA, USA; Los Angeles Rams coach Sean McVay during training camp at UC Irvine. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

WOODLAND HILLS, Calif. - - —The Los Angeles Rams know they are capable of better football. The challenge now is proving it.

Following Sunday's 18-16 loss to the Arizona Cardinals, Rams head coach Sean McVay and his players were left searching for answers after another missed opportunity to secure a victory. The offense struggled to find consistency, special teams remained a concern, and a defense that showed signs of improvement was unable to do enough to change the outcome.

It was another frustrating result for a team that has repeatedly found itself in close games without coming away with victories. The Rams have lost three of their last four games that have essentially come down to the wire, including a 37-34 overtime defeat to the Buffalo Bills and Sunday's loss to Arizona.

For a team with ambitions of competing at a high level, those results are becoming increasingly difficult to accept. McVay believes his players understand the situation and are prepared to put in the work necessary to change it.

“Guys are disappointed,” McVay said during yesterday’s presser. “I thought yesterday we didn't play like the way we're capable of, but we're going to continue to fight. We're going to continue to swing.”

McVay made no attempt to downplay the team's struggles. Los Angeles has not consistently played to their potential and their recent record reflects the consequences. Still, McVay was encouraged by how his players responded when they returned to work following the loss.

“I don't expect them to be cheery,” McVay said. “They were disappointed, but they have a resolve and resilience about them where we're ready to go back to work.”

That response will be important as Los Angeles attempts to prevent a difficult stretch from defining its season. The disappointment is undeniable, but the Rams must channel it into correcting the mistakes that have repeatedly cost them opportunities to win.

Veteran tight end Tyler Higbee emphasized that the process starts with putting the latest defeat behind them.

“It's a 24-hour rule,” Higbee said. “Come in here, watch the tape, look at the mistakes, figure out how we can fix it, and get back to work and be better.”

For Higbee, accountability begins with each player examining his own performance rather than focusing on what others could have done differently.

“Everybody's got to look in the mirror and see what we can do to get better,” Higbee said.

The Rams need that approach across the roster. The offense must find greater consistency, special teams must eliminate costly mistakes, and the defense must build on the improvement it has shown. Close losses can expose how little separates a competitive performance from a winning one but identifying those shortcomings means little without correcting them.

Safety Quentin Lake understands why the latest defeats have been particularly frustrating. Both the Buffalo and Arizona games presented opportunities for Los Angeles to secure wins, only for the team to fall short.

Lake acknowledged that the team recognizes how close it has been, but he also made clear that the players want more.

“The psyche of the team is, you know, we always think, you know, like I talked about before, we're so close,” Lake said. “When you have games like that, both the Monday night game versus the Bills and the game yesterday versus the Cardinals, you want those so bad.”

That frustration comes from knowing the opportunities were there. The Rams were within reach of better outcomes in both games, but they could not make enough plays to finish the job.

For Lake, the priority is figuring out how to change that pattern.

“It's how can we just play better football in general,” Lake said. “How can we have those outcomes favor us?”

His comments capture the central issue facing the Rams. The team does not necessarily need to overhaul everything it does but it must improve the details that determine close games. Better execution in critical moments, fewer self-inflicted mistakes and greater consistency from all three phases can help.

McVay also acknowledged that the coaching staff is continuing to establish an identity that best suits the players available, particularly with injuries complicating the process.

“We're looking to see better quality football, continue to establish identities that we feel like are in alignment with suiting our players the best that we can,” McVay said.

That means finding the most effective ways to use the roster while addressing the team's shortcomings. The Rams cannot afford to let injuries or inconsistent execution become excuses. They must adapt, identify what works and put their players in positions to succeed.

The message from McVay, Higbee and Lake is consistent: the Rams recognize their shortcomings, understand the frustration surrounding their recent losses and know that the responsibility to improve falls on everyone.

The Rams' response over the coming week will offer a clearer indication of whether their resolve can translate into progress. For now, the focus is on accountability, establishing a more consistent identity and finally turning close games into wins.

CLEMSON — Clemson football coach Dabo Swinney has known Virginia Tech coach James Franklin for years. They'll finally go head-to-head in Week 8.

The Tigers (4-2, 2-1 ACC) host the Hokies (5-2, 2-2) on Oct. 24 (7 p.m., ESPN).

Swinney said it will be "just another game" vs Franklin, but he went into their relationship Oct. 20 at his weekly press conference.

Swinney said he first met Franklin when he was an assistant coach at Maryland in the 2000s, and that the two are good friends. Swinney said their wives, Kathleen Swinney and Fumi Franklin, are also very close with one another.

Swinney mostly talks with Franklin during Nike-sponsored coaching trips for the nation's top coaches each February. Swinney said he went to his first one at the same time Franklin did, and that the two have gotten to know each other better ever since.

"That's how I got to know him and spent a lot of time with him on those trips. They're a lot of fun," Swinney said. "He's a very good coach."

Franklin said "some tweaks" are coming to Virginia Tech's offense ahead of its game against Clemson. This is because Franklin knows Tigers defensive coordinator Tom Allen well, as Allen was Franklin's defensive coordinator at Penn State in 2024.

Swinney said that it won't matter too much, and that Clemson will be fine if the defense continues playing like it has this season. The Tigers have allowed 268.2 yards per game since giving up 644 yards against LSU in Week 1.

"It's still about players. I mean, players gotta make plays," Swinney said. "Teams know each other ... and coaches know each other. Still got to execute plays.

"You've got to be able to hang your hat on what you do and execute. Study what they do and try to figure out the best plan to pack it and have some answers. And obviously, you want to study yourself. What do they know about you? ... At the end of the day, man coverage is man coverage, technique is a technique, counter is a counter, zone read is a zone read, and you gotta execute well, so it's about the players."

Franklin is in his first season as Virginia Tech's coach after spending almost 12 years at Penn State, which fired him last October after a 3-3 start. Franklin won the 2016 Big Ten championship and reached the semifinals of the 2024 College Football Playoff.

Franklin was originally set to receive his first head coaching job at Maryland after returning to the Terrapins in 2008 as their offensive coordinator and head coach in waiting. However, he took Vanderbilt's head coaching job in 2010 instead.

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

What Dabo Swinney said about the 24-team College Football Playoff?

The College Football Playoff and ESPN are nearing an agreement to expand the tournament field from 12 to 24 teams beginning next season, according to many reports. The move has been criticized by many college football fans, commentators and analysts, who all believe the expansion will have a negative effect on the sport.

Swinney said he isn't focused on it, but he did give some of his thoughts, saying he believes the move is financially driven.

"It'll be just like anything and everything that has happened in college football. There's unintended consequences," Swinney said. "It don't matter what you talk about. Don't matter what people say; sometimes it just has to happen before anybody will say, 'Well, yep, that's what we're dealing with.'

"I get it. I understand it. It's just all money, so that's where we're in."

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: Dabo Swinney explains close James Franklin friendship before Clemson vs Virginia Tech

Even after claiming the East's No. 1 seed and coming within a game of reaching the conference finals last season, the Detroit Pistons remain a sleeper going into the 2026-27 season. At sportsbooks, the Knicks, 76ers, Celtics, Raptors and Cavaliers all hold better odds to win the Eastern Conference, and even the Heat and Pacers are often mentioned by pundits before getting around to Detroit.

A quiet offseason is the biggest reason behind the lack of excitement -- the most notable thing to happen was a contract dispute with all-star center Jalen Duren. Especially in contrast to the splashy moves of teams like Philadelphia, Miami and Toronto. But at least one person is holding out hope that Detroit already has everything it needs to not only take a step forward, but power all the way through to the NBA Finals.

"I'm going with my guys," Pistons legend Richard Hamilton told FTW. "It was our first time there last year. We got beat up a little bit. Cade [Cunningham] was hurt. That's the thing people don't talk about. Cade came back at a time where most guys have their rhythm. If you watch that Orlando series, sometimes he would have more turnovers than assists. And that's just him getting his rhythm after missing so many games.

"So I just feel as though with a healthy Cade Cunningham, it might just be my revenge -- even though I'm on the other side -- of Detroit versus San Antonio. And this time, we go to the River Walk and we come back with a championship."

It's a compelling argument by Hamilton, who was on the losing end of a Spurs-Pistons finals in 2005 as Detroit was seeking to go back-to-back. Even out of rhythm, Cunningham averaged 28.1 points and 7.5 assists. So, there's presumably another level the 25-year-old can take his game. We know Duren can play better, as his disappointing postseason was at the root of his holdout. Ausar Thompson is the other piece of that puzzle, as another young player on the roster with room to grow.

As for Hamilton's pick to win the West, the Spurs are less surprising after last year's run to the finals. But Hamilton said he was high on their potential even before then.

"I do have the Spurs. Because that unicorn they got over there, that alien they got over there, it's different."

This article originally appeared on For The Win: A totally unbiased Rip Hamilton made the least surprising 2027 NBA Finals prediction

IOWA CITY — Iowa football is aiming to keep the Floyd of Rosedale trophy for the third straight year as it heads to Minneapolis to take on Minnesota on Saturday, Oct. 24.

For quarterback Jeremy Hecklinski, the game marks a full-circle moment. His first touchdown in an Iowa uniform came against Minnesota last year, a 6-yard run in the fourth quarter in Iowa's 41-3 win over the Golden Gophers.

While the coaching staff has not yet named Hecklinski or Hank Brown as starting quarterback for the Oct. 24 game, Hecklinski is coming off a 41-24 win over Washington in his first career start, where he threw for three touchdowns on 14 of 19 passes for 202 yards.

"This is big," Hecklinski said of the rivalry with Minnesota. "It'll be good to go over there and play them at their place."

Hecklinski spoke to members of the media on Tuesday, Oct. 20. Here are the highlights of what he said.

Iowa football does not name starting QB

Hecklinski said he does not know who will start at quarterback against Minnesota, and that head coach Kirk Ferentz will decide later in the week. Hecklinski also said that Brown looks healthy in practice.

"He hasn't skipped a beat," Hecklinski said of Brown. "He looks great."

Hecklinski said he and Brown have again been rotating in practice as they await the decision.

"Whatever they decide is final," Hecklinski said. "We're going to continue to just practice every day and try to be our best selves. We just want to win games, and whoever they go with, that's ultimately what is going to happen."

Hecklinski's confidence rising following win over Washington

Hecklinski said he plays football "loose," and that energy showed in the win over Washington. He said he felt confident going into the game against the Huskies and credited the looks the Iowa defense gave him in the past couple of weeks for helping the offense get ready.

"Going against our defense, they're one of the best defenses in the nation," Hecklinski said. "It brings us confidence because we know they're such a good defense that we can go after them Friday night, Saturday afternoon and get what we want."

The run game was very successful against Washington. Kamari Moulton had two rushing touchdowns and ran for a career-high 208 yards. Hecklinski said the success on the ground helped him in the passing attack.

"It opens up a lot of stuff for me on the back end," Hecklinski said. "It makes it easier on me as a passer."

What Hecklinski is seeing against Minnesota

Hecklinski said Minnesota has some good athletes on its roster, and talked about edge rusher Anthony Smith, an All-Big Ten first-team selection last season.

"He's a good player," Hecklinski said. "I think we just got to play our game, and we'll walk out with a winner."

Every day in the weight room, Hecklinski and the team see the trophy they won last season when they beat the Golden Gophers. Hecklinski said he touches it every day when he walks through to remind himself what this game is about.

"Keeping the trophy," Hecklinski said about what this game means. "It's a trophy game. Keep it here."

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Iowa football QB Jeremy Hecklinski talks Washington win, Minnesota prep

Fans watch sports to see something new, marvels we never thought possible. That's guaranteed to happen at the 2026 World Series when the Tampa Bay Rays face off against the Milwaukee Brewers.

Neither team has ever taken home the Commissioner's Trophy, awarded to the MLB champion every year since 1967. The Fall Classic stretches back a little farther, to 1903. The Rays and Brewers, who were established in 1998 and 1969, respectively, have played in just three of baseball's ultimate series between them.

It marks the first time since 1980 that the World Series will pit two teams that had never won the championship. That year, the Philadelphia Phillies took down the Kansas City Royals in six games for the franchise's first title in its 97-year history. Don't feel too bad for the Royals; they'd win it all a few years later in 1985.

This marks the second consecutive year that fans of the four major American sports will be guaranteed a first-time champ. In the 2025 NBA Finals, the Oklahoma City Thunder bested the Indiana Pacers in a seven-game series to win the first title for the team that started as the Seattle SuperSonics in 1967 (the Pacers dropped to 0-2 in the NBA Finals, though they did win the ABA three times).

A guaranteed new champ has happened twice in the past 10 years in the NHL, most recently with the Vegas Golden Knights beating the Florida Panthers in five games in 2023 (Florida would win the next two Stanley Cups). There's been a much longer wait in the NFL: The St. Louis Rams beat the Tennessee Titans in Super Bowl 34 after the 1999 season, capping a dream season for "The Greatest Show on Turf."

When is the last time the Rays were in the World Series?

Tampa has been to the Fall Classic twice before, most recently in the 2020 COVID season. The Rays finished with the best record in the AL at 40-20 (which would equate to a 108-54 record over a standard season) with Brandon Lowe, Willy Adames and Randy Arozarena leading the offense and Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow and Ryan Yarborough spearheading the pitching staff. They swept the Toronto Blue Jays 2-0 in the wild-card series (installed for the shortened season before it was made permanent in 2022), then went the distance in a five-game ALDS against the New York Yankees and the seven-game ALCS against the Houston Astros.

Played at the newly built Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, the Rays faced the Los Angeles Dodgers in the World Series, losing in six games. The teams split the first four games with Brett Philips hitting a chaotic walk-off single off Kenley Jensen to win Game 4. The Dodgers won Game 5 wire to wire, then Rays manager Kevin Cash made a still-controversial decision to pull Snell with a one-run lead in the sixth inning after just 73 pitches. Tampa instantly coughed up the lead and went on to lose 3-1.

The other time the Rays made the World Series, they lost in five games to the Philadelphia Phillies in 2008. Under manager Joe Maddon with an offense headed by Carlos Peña and Rookie of the Year Evan Longoria, Tampa went from 66-96 the year before to 97-65 to reach the franchise's first postseason. After a 3-1 ALDS win over the Chicago White Sox and a seven-game thriller over the defending champion Boston Red Sox, the Rays split the first two games against the Phillies at Tropicana Field before an hourslong rain delay led to a Game 3 walk-off loss in Philly. Facing elimination in Game 5, Peña tied the game in the top of the sixth before the game was suspended by rain. Two days later, play resumed with Jayson Werth giving the Phils the lead back, then Rocco Baldelli tying it again with a home run only for Pedro Feliz to single home the game- and series-winning run in the bottom of the seventh.

When is the last time the Brewers were in the World Series?

The last time Milwaukee reached the Fall Classic, they were part of the American League. Behind an MVP 1982 season from Robin Yount and with Paul Molitor and Gorman Thomas leading the majors in runs and homers, respectively, the Brewers won their second straight AL East title with a 95-67 record. They dropped the first two games in the ALCS to the California Angels before winning the final three, with Cecil Cooper delivering the deciding runs of a 4-3 win in Game 5 on a bases-loaded single.

In the 1982 World Series, the Brewers faced the St. Louis Cardinals, opening with a statement in a 10-0 win in which Molitor and Yount went a combined 9 for 12 with a run and two RBIs apiece. St. Louis took Games 2 and 3 then got their revenge in Game 6 with a 13-1 demolition to force Game 7. A Molitor single and Cooper sacrifice fly gave Milwaukee the lead in the top of the sixth, but with the bases loaded in the home half, Keith Hernandez and George Hendrick hit back-to-back singles to give the Cardinals the lead they wouldn't relinquish.

Which teams haven't won the World Series?

It might surprise some baseball fans to learn that some of the worst teams this season — the Los Angeles Angels, the San Francisco Giants and the Athletics, for instance — do have World Series titles in their trophy case. There are five teams still searching for their first championship. Only one, the Seattle Mariners, has never even been there. Here's a look at the teams without a title, including when they began play and the times they came closest:

• Tampa Bay Rays (1998): 2020 (lost to LA Dodgers 4-2) and 2008 (lost to Philadelphia 4-1)
• Colorado Rockies (1993): 2007 (lost to Boston 4-0)
• San Diego Padres (1969): 1998 (lost to NY Yankees 4-0) and 1984 (lost to Detroit 4-1)
• Milwaukee Brewers (1969): 1982 (lost to St. Louis 4-3)
• Seattle Mariners (1977): reached ALCS four times in 1995, 2000, 2001 and 2025

Rays vs Brewers World Series schedule

All 2026 World Series games will be broadcast on Fox. Streaming options include Fubo, which offers a free trial for new subscribers.

• Game 1: 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 23 | American Family Field (Milwaukee, Wisconsin)
• Game 2: 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24 | American Family Field (Milwaukee, Wisconsin)
• Game 3: 8 p.m. Monday, Oct. 26 | Tropicana Field (St. Petersburg, Florida)
• Game 4: 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 27 | Tropicana Field (St. Petersburg, Florida)
• Game 5*: 8 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 28 | Tropicana Field (St. Petersburg, Florida)
• Game 6*: 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30 | American Family Field (Milwaukee, Wisconsin)
• Game 7*: 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31 | American Family Field (Milwaukee, Wisconsin)

*- if necessary

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Have the Tampa Bay Rays ever won the World Series? MLB gets rare gift

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Eagles revealed to face no punishment from NFL over Jalen Hurts blood clot situation originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Philadelphia Eagles have dominated the headlines in the NFL for all of the wrong reasons lately, as it was revealed that Jalen Hurts not only has a blood clot problem, but it has spread to his lungs, likely forcing him to miss the rest of the season.

But it's worse than that, as it was revealed he played through Week 5 against the Jacksonville Jaguars in London with a blood clot. He played on little to no sleep in this game, and the Eagles' decision to let him play was a very controversial decision.

However, according to Jonathan Jones of The Athletic, the Eagles will not face any punishment from the NFL for Hurts playing in Week 5. Despite fan outrage and questions from the media, the NFL determined the Eagles didn't commit any wrongdoing.

NFL reportedly won't punish Eagles for Jalen Hurts blood clot situation

"The NFL has concluded that the process surrounding Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts being cleared to play in Week 5 with a superficial blood clot 'was handled appropriately,' a league source tells The Athletic," Jones reports.

That same source told Jones and The Athletic that the NFL will "not issue any punishment to the Eagles for its handling of the medical process, or for Hurts not being given an injury designation ahead of the game."

A day after Nick Sirianni was grilled by reporters about Hurts' health and the decision to play him through blood clots and minimal sleep, the NFL has determined the Eagles did no wrong.

MORE: Giants' QB plans get complicated after Jameis Winston collapse, J.J. McCarthy surge

It doesn't change the fact that playing Hurts in such a situation is a risky decision they really shouldn't have taken. Tanner McKee and Cole Payton could've manned the QB position for that one week in London.

Instead, Hurts played and flew back home before it was revealed to be a more serious blood clot issue than it initially appeared to be.

Hurts is now out for the season with blood clots discovered in his lungs, requiring blood thinners to treat him. While he can make a full recovery, it's not likely to happen until the 2026 season is well over.

Despite the outcry over the Eagles' decision to play him through such a scary injury, the NFL isn't punishing the Eagles. For now, it appears this situation has concluded, with the hope being that Hurts' recovery goes well and he can come back for the 2027 season.

More NFL news:

• Colts fans are calling for Daniel Jones benching after ugly Titans loss
• Travis Hunter made NFL history, but the Jaguars still left London with a loss
• Falcons forced to use silent count at home, raising serious questions about fan support
• Aaron Rodgers blasts Buccaneers' field as 'one of the worst surfaces in the league'
• Cam Skattebo's lack of rushing attempts is a major cause for concern for Giants

Fabregas rejects Man Utd ‘crisis’ talk ahead of Champions League meeting

Cesc Fabregas has rejected the claim that Manchester United are in “crisis” ahead of the clash between his Como side and the Premier League club on Wednesday.

United have picked up just two wins this season, with one coming against Sabah FK in the first matchday of the Champions League.

In the past week they have succumbed to a 2-0 loss at Atlético Madrid that was followed with a 1-1 draw against Leeds United at Elland Road on Sunday.

He said: “I don’t believe in crises in football, you have a game every three days, it’s 11 against 11, and you’ve got to give your best.

“A crisis is invented by you journalists, but we are professionals, we’ve wanted to compete since the day we were born. I don’t believe in any crisis.”

Pressure on Michael Carrick has increased but Fabregas refused to answer if he would like the Manchester United job if it became available “out of respect for Carrick and an institution like United”.

Como sit fifth in Serie A and have won one and lost one in the Champions League so far. They won their first ever game in the competition against RB Leipzig 4-1 but were beaten 3-2 by Feyenoord last week.

Looking ahead to Wednesday’s game, Fabregas said: “It is another historic day for the club, the fans and the city.

“We’ve got to play with focus and ambition. This is Manchester United we are up against, so let’s enjoy it, play our game and try to win. It’s an incredible group of players, so we must be humble and realise there is much to learn. We’ll see how it goes but we respect our opponents.

“There are different ways of attacking, we try to study their weaknesses but also don’t forget what we do best. They have a specific system and principles, but football is ultimately about the players. We tend to forget that, as directors and coaching staff.”

Como’s league form has suffered with the more strenuous schedule that comes with involvement in Europe’s elite competition.

Fabregas said: “Many players have never done this before, but we’ve got to improve and play with ambition.

“We cannot talk too much about history, because otherwise these players step onto the field with fear. A coach must give his players confidence. If we think we’re higher than we are, then it will be more difficult.”

What changes can be expected after Week 9 of the men's college soccer season?

SMU men's soccer tied Stanford at home on Friday, Oct. 16, but otherwise remains undefeated this season, maintaining its No. 1 ranking in the updated United Soccer Coaches poll on Oct. 20.

REQUIRED READING: USMNT announces December training camp, friendly vs. Jamaica

Formerly No. 2 Indiana, though, is no longer unbeaten: The Hoosiers suffered their first loss of the season to Rutgers on Oct. 16, which resulted in a drop in the rankings. Georgetown improved to 11-1-1 on the season after its 3-0 win over St. John's and 4-0 win over Seton Hall, setting up a jump over Indiana in the poll.

South Carolina also had a big fall in the rankings after falling to Georgia State 2-1 on the road in a shocking upset.

Here's a look at the updated United Soccer Coaches poll on Tuesday, Oct. 20:

Men's college soccer rankings after Week 9

First-place votes in parentheses

1. SMU (8)
2. Georgetown
3. Clemson
4. Indiana
5. UMKC
6. Michigan State
7. Washington
8. Creighton
9. Akron
10. Louisville
11. Maryland
12. Vermont
13. Wisconsin
14. Xavier
15. Wake Forest
16. North Carolina
17. Pittsburgh
18. South Carolina
19. UCLA
20. Charlotte
21. Portland
22. Oregon State
23. Cornell
24. UNC-Wilmington
25. West Virginia

Others receiving votes: University of San Diego (7), Missouri State University (6), Stanford University (5), James Madison University (5), University of California Santa Barbara (3), High Point University (3), Rutgers University (1), Marshall University (1), Utah Valley University (1).

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Men's college soccer rankings after Week 9: Updated United Soccer Coaches Poll

Oct 21, 2021; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; NFL Half of Fame quarterback Troy Aikman before the game between the Cleveland Browns and the Denver Broncos at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Galvin-USA TODAY Sports

Troy Aikman has been a fixture on ESPN’s Monday Night Football the last several years, but now the Hall of Fame quarterback’s future with the network is in doubt.

Joe Buck, Aikman’s longtime broadcast partner, has reupped with the Worldwide Leader, but Aikman is still working on the final year of his original deal. The situation has caused “tension” between the two colleagues, which reportedly boiled over in the booth before last Monday’s game.

With Aikman leaving ESPN now a real possibility, some of the network’s biggest names are rallying in support of the Dallas Cowboys legend.

Stephen A., Michael Wilbon speak up

Michael Wilbon, co-host of Pardon the Interruption, ESPN’s longest-running show, sent a not-so-subtle message about Aikman to company higher-ups during a recent episode.

“You know who calls a game better than Troy Aikman, knuckleheads? Nobody calls a game better than Troy Aikman!” Wilbon said, via the New York Post.

On Monday, Stephen A. Smith, who is arguably ESPN’s biggest star, said he “sincerely hopes” Aikman returns to the Worldwide Leader.

“They are the A-team,” Smith said on his SiriusXM show, via Awful Announcing. “Joe Buck, it don’t get no better, play-by-play. Excuse the double negative. It’s just the truth. And I feel the exact same way about Troy Aikman, who I love, who I’ve loved for years. That’s their business, that’s ESPN’s business, that’s ABC’s business, and all of that. I know they’ll be calling the Super Bowl this year.

“Troy Aikman is a three-time Super Bowl champion, an elite football mind whose credentials and resume is as impeccable as they come, and it speaks for itself. I sincerely hope that we don’t lose him as a person that’s employed by ESPN, but if we do lose him, I want to wish him all the happiness in the world if he decides to go elsewhere. Because football must have Troy Aikman’s voice in it, he’s that special of a guy and a football mind, and I sincerely hope that we keep him.”

Aikman prepared for an exit

Back in September, Aikman said he thought his contract status would have been solved already and “when it might get done, if it gets done, is anyone’s guess.”

More recently, the 59-year-old has been less than enthusiastic about the possibility of ESPN wanting him back.

“It just seems to be where they’re going — that they’re gonna go in a different direction because there’s been no talks, no contract negotiations,” Aikman told Jimmy Traina last week.

The post Nobody calls a game better’: ESPN stars throw support behind Troy Aikman appeared first on The Comeback: Today’s Top Sports Stories & Reactions.

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts' blood clotting issue is raising questions about the condition.

In a statement shared on Oct. 19, Hurts' agent Nicole Lynn said the football player was diagnosed with bilateral pulmonary emboli, meaning the quarterback has blood clots in both lungs. Lynn said he is in stable condition, and his treatment will consist of taking blood thinners. As a result, he will be unable to participate in contact activities.

"Jalen's prognosis is very good, and we expect a full recovery," Lynn wrote in the statement. "We anticipate that he will have the opportunity to resume contact football activities when off the blood thinners."

Here's what to know.

What are blood clots?

Blood clots are "semisolid or gel-like masses that form in your arteries and veins" that help control bleeding, Cleveland Clinic explains. They can also cause serious medical issues, the clinic adds, including deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism and heart attack.

A pulmonary embolism is "a blood clot that blocks and stops blood flow to an artery in the lung," according to Mayo Clinic. In medical terminology, "bilateral" means affecting both sides of the body or both of a pair of organs.

So, in Hurts' case, "bilateral pulmonary emboli" means the quarterback has blood clots affecting both lungs.

A pulmonary embolism can happen when a blood clot in the veins of your leg, pelvis or other body part travels through your bloodstream to your lungs, leading to a sudden blockage, the Cleveland Clinic adds.

Hurts was initially diagnosed with a superficial blood clot in his left calf, his team announced Oct. 15.

How common are pulmonary embolisms?

Pulmonary embolisms are common, according to Cleveland Clinic, with experts estimating they lead to "at least 100,000 deaths per year in the U.S."

Seeking immediate medical care is important if you think you have a pulmonary embolism, as "quick treatment can save your life," the clinic adds.

As in Hurts' case, blood thinner medication is the most common treatment. This is used to get rid of the clot and prevent new ones from forming.

"In severe cases, you may have a procedure or surgery," the Cleveland Clinic explained, adding medication may also be needed for months or years to prevent future clots.

Traveling and blood clots

The Mayo Clinic says the risk of blood clots developing while traveling is "low but increases as long-haul travel increases."

To help prevent blood clots during travel, a provider may suggest staying hydrated, wearing support stockings, moving in your seat and taking a break from sitting, according to the clinic.

Contributing: Jack McKessy, USA TODAY

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Jalen Hurts and what to know about blood clots

Geno Auriemma, head coach of the UConn Huskies, looks on during the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame women's college basketball exhibition game between the Syracuse Orange and the UConn Huskies at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, United States, on October 12, 2026. (Photo by Erica Denhoff/NurPhoto via Getty Images) (NurPhoto/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

The UConn women's basketball team will begin the 2026-27 season ranked second in the country.

The preseason Associated Press Top 25 poll was unveiled Tuesday afternoon and South Carolina sits at No. 1. The Huskies, who lost to South Carolina in the Final Four last year, are second ahead of USC, Duke and Michigan.

Rounding out the Top 10: Texas, Louisville, Vanderbilt, LSU and Iowa. The Huskies beat Texas in a preseason game Monday night.

South Carolina received 23 of 31 first-place votes. UConn received six first-place votes, USC two.

UConn began last season No. 1 after winning the NCAA title in 2025. The Huskies maintained the top spot all season before losing the Final Four.

South Carolina beat UConn handily in the national semifinal, but lost 79-51 to UCLA in the title game. The Bruins finished atop the AP poll after its title run, but begin this season at No. 11.

Geno Auriemma's Huskies were first ranked in the Top 25 in the 1989-90 season. UConn first reached No. 1 in January 1995.

UConn has also been in the Top 10 of every preseason poll since 1994.

UConn and South Carolina will meet at Mohegan Sun Arena on Nov. 24. Other Top 25 opponents on UConn's schedule: Michigan, Iowa, Louisville, Ohio State, Duke, Maryland, Notre Dame, and LSU.

AP preseason women's basketball Top 25

1. South Carolina  
2. UConn  
3. USC  
4. Duke  
5. Michigan  
6. Texas  
7. Louisville  
8. Vanderbilt  
9. LSU  
10. Iowa  
11. UCLA  
12. North Carolina  
13. Notre Dame  
14. Kentucky  
15. TCU  
16. Washington  
17. Minnesota  
18. Ohio State  
19. Ole Miss  
20. Maryland  
21. Oklahoma  
22. Oklahoma State  
23. Illinois  
24. West Virginia  
25. N.C. State 

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This article originally published at UConn women's basketball team is No. 2 in the preseason AP Top 25 poll.

Were you Seen at the Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake homecoming game against Columbia on Oct. 17, 2026, at Centennial Field in Burnt Hills? Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake won 22-15.

Were you Seen at the Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake homecoming game against Columbia on Oct. 17, 2026, at Centennial Field in Burnt Hills?  (Gary McPherson/For the Times Union)
SubscribeThere’s more to Albany with the Times Union. Subscribe today for just 25¢.

This article originally published at SEEN: Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake homecoming 2026.

David Gonzales-Imagn Images.

49ers’ Deebo Samuel missed Commanders game with injury, but that didn’t stop him from a viral e-date appearance appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

While he missed the San Francisco 49ers’ win against the Washington Commanders, his former team, injured wide receiver Deebo Samuel still made time for e-dating.

He hosted an e-dating stream on TikTok (via the New York Post), acting as a wingman for prospective couples as they spoke to each other.

Samuel didn’t take part in the e-dating, as he is in a relationship with Mahogany Jones. His role was purely as a matchmaker for the participants.

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The Niners continued their undefeated streak by beating the Commanders on Monday Night Football. It’s all fun and games now, but the matchmaker’s team may play on Valentine’s Day in the Super Bowl if they continue on their current path.

49ers WR Deebo Samuel’s stats before injuryCredit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images

While he missed the 49ers’ last game, he has been a big part of the offense in his reunion with the team (he spent a year with the Commanders before returning to the Niners in 2026).

He has caught 16 passes for 206 yards and three touchdowns. Samuel notably logged 80 yards and a touchdown without a reception during the team’s Week 3 win over the Arizona Cardinals. He has also rushed for 78 yards on nine carries.

During his first stint with the 49ers, Samuel made it to one Pro Bowl team and one First-team All-Pro, both in 2021. That year, he caught a career-high 77 passes for 1,405 yards and six touchdowns. He remained with the team through the 2024 season. With the Commanders, he played in 16 games and logged 72 catches for 727 yards and five touchdowns.

The 49ers are rolling six weeks into the season. They are one of the NFL’s three undefeated teams and the only one to reach six wins (the Kansas City Chiefs and the Minnesota Vikings only have five wins).

Related: 49ers owner Jed York’s prostitution suspension is over, so is he at NFL meeting in Manhattan?

Related: 49ers’ Brock Purdy surges past Lamar Jackson for all-time NFL record

Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Insider reveals where Aaron Boone, Brian Cashman have ‘failed’ Yankees appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The New York Yankees are expected to keep manager Aaron Boone despite falling short of the World Series once again in 2026. The expectation is that general manager Brian Cashman will also be back. MLB insiders Joel Sherman and Jon Heyman recently addressed the situation during an episode of The Show with Joel Sherman & Jon Heyman.

“You do have to think about what kind of people you put on the roster. Are those the guys you want taking at-bats, fielding the ball, making big decisions in the postseason? I think it’s a place where the Yankees have failed,” Sherman said. “Which means where Brian Cashman has failed and his group, by not having a greater appreciation of that. And I also think it’s a place where Aaron Boone has failed by not getting the full attention of some of these players, if that is actually possible.”

The Yankees have had the talent to compete. Sherman seems to think the way Cashman and Boone have approached some of the elements of strategy and the roster has been an issue, though. So, how can these concerns be fixed?

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“I think they need to put, for better terms, a bad cop, an enforcer, somebody next to him in the bench coach role,” Sherman added. “Who is more somebody who cares about the brand and cares about good baseball, and is willing to do what Boone hasn’t been willing to do which is call out publicly to some degree guys who are not playing the right way. Who are not valuing the scoreboard. Who are doing their thing over what’s good for the group.”

The Yankees will attempt to bounce back next season as they look to win their first World Series since 2009.

Related: Yankees rumors: Brian Cashman contract extension coming after Aaron Boone decision

Related: Why bringing back Aaron Boone for 2027 season is a mistake for the Yankees

PREVIEW | Dinamo Zagreb vs NEC: team news, lineups, predictions (Europa League 22/10)

Dinamo Zagreb and NEC clash this Thursday at the Stadion Maksimir of the UEFA Europa League.

In their last game, Dinamo Zagreb won 1-5 against Slaven (SuperSport Hrvatska nogometna liga 2026/27). In their last outing, NEC drew 2-2 against Fortuna Sittard (Eredivisie 2026/27).

UnavailableDinamo ZagrebNEC

• Bram Nuytinck - Ankle Surgery
• Emre Mor - Groin Injury
• Dusan Tadic - Calf Injury
• Ayodele Thomas - Suspended

Last starting XIs

Dinamo Zagreb ( vs Slaven 2026-10-18): Dominik Kotarski, Moris Valincic, Niko Galesic, Scott McKenna, Bruno Goda, Luka Stojkovic, Josip Misic, Kirill Kravtsov, Dani Rodríguez, Dion Beljo, Mislav Orsic

NEC ( vs Fortuna Sittard 2026-10-18): Gonzalo Crettaz, Tobias Storm, Ahmetcan Kaplan, Deveron Fonville, Kevin Kers, Dennis Geiger, Darko Nejasmic, Clement Bischoff, Noé Lebreton, Bryan Linssen, Jamiro Monteiro

Did you know...by playmaker statsTEAMS

• Away from home, NEC have conceded goals in six consecutive matches.
• Away from home, NEC are coming off three consecutive matches without a win.
• NEC currently have one defeat in their last five matches.
• NEC currently have one win in their last 11 matches.
• NEC have scored in four consecutive matches.
• NEC have conceded goals in 14 consecutive matches.
• NEC are coming off eight consecutive matches without a win.
• NEC are coming off four consecutive matches unbeaten.
• At home, Dinamo Zagreb have scored in nine consecutive matches.
• At home, Dinamo Zagreb are coming off nine consecutive matches unbeaten.
• At home, Dinamo Zagreb are coming off four consecutive wins.
• Dinamo Zagreb currently have three defeats in their last 19 matches.
• Dinamo Zagreb have scored in five consecutive matches.
• Dinamo Zagreb are coming off two consecutive matches unbeaten.
• Dinamo Zagreb are coming off two consecutive wins.

HEAD TO HEAD

• Dinamo Zagreb and NEC have met once, with Dinamo Zagreb having the advantage: one win.
• At Stadion Maksimir, Dinamo Zagreb have the edge in their head-to-head against NEC: one win in one match.
• In the Europa League, there was a match between the two teams, with Dinamo Zagreb winning.