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AVONDALE, ARIZONA - OCTOBER 17: Jesse Love, driver of the #2 Whelen Chevrolet, takes the checkered flag to win the NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series Timberland PRO 200 at Phoenix Raceway on October 17, 2026 in Avondale, Arizona. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images) Getty

Jesse Love didn’t just leave Phoenix Raceway with another victory Saturday night. He also strengthened his grip on the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Chase standings.

Love dominated Saturday’s 200-lap race, leading 156 laps before holding off Sam Mayer by just 0.128 seconds. The Richard Childress Racing driver now sits atop the standings with 2,367 points, holding a 36-point advantage over Justin Allgaier.

Allgaier finished third at Phoenix, while Corey Day took fourth and remained third in the championship standings, just three points behind Allgaier.

With the season winding down, the battle behind Love remains particularly close. Only 23 points separate Allgaier in second from Sheldon Creed in fourth, leaving plenty at stake as the Chase continues.

Updated NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Chase Standings After Phoenix

Here is the complete top 12 following Saturday’s race at Phoenix Raceway, including each driver’s deficit to the championship leader.

1. Jesse Love: 2,367 points (leader)
2. Justin Allgaier: 36 points behind
3. Corey Day: 39 points behind
4. Sheldon Creed: 59 points behind
5. Carson Kvapil: 79 points behind
6. Sam Mayer: 86 points behind
7. Sammy Smith: 137 points behind
8. Taylor Gray: 141 points behind
9. Austin Hill: 143 points behind
10. Parker Retzlaff: 173 points behind
11. Brandon Jones: 183 points behind
12. Rajah Caruth: 213 points behind

Jesse Love Extends His Lead as Chase Battle Tightens

Love’s performance at Phoenix gave his championship campaign another boost, but there is still plenty of competition behind him.

Allgaier remains his closest challenger, while Day is just three points further back. Creed sits fourth despite finishing 32nd on Saturday, with Kvapil rounding out the top five after a 10th-place finish.

Mayer’s runner-up performance kept him sixth in the standings, 86 points behind Love. Sammy Smith, Taylor Gray, Austin Hill and Parker Retzlaff complete the top 10.

The biggest takeaway from Phoenix is straightforward: Love controls the championship standings, but the drivers behind him still have plenty to race for.

Saturday’s NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series race at Phoenix Raceway marked the beginning of a three-year title sponsorship agreement with Timberland PRO, further expanding the brand’s presence in NASCAR.

This article was originally published on HEAVY

The post NASCAR O’Reilly Series Chase Standings After Phoenix: Full Updated Points List appeared first on HEAVY.

India host Zimbabwe in Raipur on Sunday, and the hosts will want a gentler start than Friday gave them.

Chasing 115, they were 19 for 4 inside four overs, with offspinner Nyasha Gwanzura removing Smriti Mandhana (9), Anushka Sharma (4) and Shafali Verma (4) in a spell that began the captain’s reign with a scare.

Deepti Sharma (49 off 37) and debutant Niki Prasad (39 not out) then added 82 to win by four wickets with 26 balls left.

Zimbabwe, meeting India in women’s cricket for the first time, had made 114 for 5 through Sharne Mayers’ unbeaten 43 and Kelis Ndhlovu’s 42.

India lead the series 1-0, but their top order has work to do.

India Women vs. Zimbabwe Women 1st T20I prediction: Who will win?

India should take a 2-0 lead in Raipur. Zimbabwe managed only 114 for 5 on Friday, and Nandani Sharma gave away just 11 in four overs. Deepti Sharma is in form after her 49, while debutant Niki Prasad showed real composure. Even if the top order wobbles again, India have the depth to recover, and the hosts look clearly stronger.

TSN Prediction: India to win

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India Women vs. Zimbabwe Women pitch report, 2nd T20I: Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium, New Raipur

Stat

Value

Total Matches

3

Matches won batting first

1

Matches won bowling first

2

Average 1st innings score

165

Average 2nd innings score

159

Highest total recorded

209/3 (15.2 ovs) by IND vs NZ

Lowest total recorded

0/0 (0 ovs)

Highest score chased

209/3 (15.2 ovs) by IND vs NZ

Lowest score defended

174/9 (20 ovs) by IND vs AUS

Head-to-head in T20I: India Women vs. Zimbabwe Women

Head to head

India Women

Zimbabwe Women

Matches played

1

1

Wins

1

0

No result

0

0

Last meeting

1st T20I, Raipur, 16 Oct 2026

1st T20I, Raipur, 16 Oct 2026

Last result

Won by 4 wickets (26 balls left)

Lost by 4 wickets

Highest total

116/6 (15.4 ov)

114/5 (20 ov)

Top scorer

Deepti Sharma 49 (37)

Sharne Mayers 43* (33)

Best bowling

Nandani Sharma 2/11

Nyasha Gwanzura 3/18

India Women vs. Zimbabwe Women betting tips for 2nd T20I

Here is our favourite betting angle for India Women vs. Zimbabwe Women:

BETTING TIP

ODDS

Zimbabwe runs in over 5, over 4.5 

1.55

Zimbabwe made 34 for 1 in the Friday powerplay, an average of about 5.7 an over. That sits above the 4.5 line.

Dafabet

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CLICK TO BETIndia Women vs. Zimbabwe Women lineups, team news for 2nd T20I

Here's how we think both sides will line up in this game:

India predicted lineup against Zimbabwe

Smriti Mandhana (c), Shafali Verma, Anushka Sharma, Harmanpreet Kaur, Niki Prasad, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh (wk), Arundhati Reddy, Shree Charani, Nandani Sharma, Kranti Gaud

Zimbabwe predicted lineup against India

Kelis Ndhlovu, Beloved Biza, Modester Mupachikwa (wk), Sharne Mayers, Nyasha Gwanzura, Michelle Mavunga, Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano, Josephine Nkomo (c), Francisca Chipare, Olinder Chare, Tendai Makusha

India Women vs. Zimbabwe Women Odds: Who is the favourite for 2nd T20I?

Result

Dafabet Odds

India Women

1.01

Zimbabwe Women

21.00

BET HERE: Best cricket betting sites in India

How to watch India Women vs Zimbabwe Women 2nd T20I match: Live stream, TV channel

Here is all the key information for how to watch India Women vs Zimbabwe Women 2nd T20I:

• Date: Sunday, October 18
• Venue: Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium, New Raipur
• Time: 19:00 PM (IST)
• TV/Stream: JioHotstar

Where to watch Browns vs. Ravens today: Channel, live stream, time, TV schedule for Week 6 NFL game originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Browns' momentum slowed a bit in Week 5, as they struggled to protect Deshaun Watson and suffered a sloppy loss to the Jets. A win over the Ravens would bring all of that positive energy right back.

AFC North-leading Baltimore moved to 4-1 with a come-from-behind victory over the Falcons in primetime last weekend, even without Lamar Jackson on the field. With or without Jackson, the Ravens appear to be a dangerous team as long as Derrick Henry is in the backfield.

The Browns are looking for a much better offensive showing in this divisional matchup, while the Ravens are looking to stay hot before embarking on massive matchups with the Bengals and Bills that could say a lot about who they are as a team.

Here is everything you need to know to watch Browns vs. Raves, including TV and streaming options for the game.

What channel is Browns vs. Ravens on today?

• TV channel: Fox
• Live stream: DIRECTV, fubo

Browns vs. Ravens will air regionally on Fox, with Kevin Kugler and Daryl Johnston on the call. Fans can also stream the game live with DIRECTV or Fubo, which offer free trials to new subscribers. 

Catch every game – try DIRECTV FREE today! Stream live NFL, MLB, March Madness, soccer and more with must-have sports channels like TNT, TBS, truTV, ESPN, FS1, and NFL Network—all included with DIRECTV.

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What time is Browns vs. Ravens today?

• Date: Sunday, Oct. 18
• Time: 1 p.m. ET

Browns vs. Ravens is set to kick off at 1 p.m. ET from Huntington Bank Field in Cleveland on Sunday.

Browns vs. Ravens radio coverage

• Radio station: SiriusXM app and channels 193, 262

Listen to live play-by-play coverage of Browns vs. Ravens nationwide on the SiriusXM app, or in your vehicle on channels 193 (Browns broadcast) and 262 (Ravens broadcast).

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

Browns schedule 2026

Here are Browns' upcoming games:

DateGameTime (ET)Oct. 25at Titans1 p.m.Nov. 1at Steelers1 p.m.Nov. 8at Saints1 p.m.Nov. 15vs. Texans1 p.m.Nov. 29vs. Raiders1 p.m.Ravens schedule 2026

Here are Ravens' upcoming games:

DateGameTime (ET)Oct. 25vs. Bengals1 p.m.Nov. 1at Bills1 p.m.Nov. 5vs. Jaguars8:15 p.m.Nov. 16vs. Chargers8:15 p.m.Nov. 22at Panthers1 p.m.Related Links

• Latest NFL news and rumors
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• Updated NFL standings
• How to bet on the NFL

The Pittsburgh Steelers' Week 6 matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is here at last, and we at Steelers Wire have analyzed several defensive keys to victory that could be important for Sunday's clash.

From a rather straightforward path to a Week 6 win to forcing an inexperienced quarterback to pass the football, here's a look at three defensive keys to victory for the Steelers.

Win turnover battle

The Steelers' +2 turnover differential isn't much higher than the Buccaneers' -2, and the game could very well come down to how well Pittsburgh's defense can take the ball away in Week 6. Buccaneers rookie quarterback Jalon Daniels has thrown three interceptions in three games, but we want to see that number skyrocket by the time Sunday's game is all said and done.

All eyes on Bucky Irving

Irving almost single-handedly defeated the Dallas Cowboys for the Buccaneers last week, recording 175 yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns. The Steelers need to stop Irving from taking over the game, similar to their excellent job in limiting Jonathan Taylor's impact in Week 5. Forcing the Buccaneers to be one-dimensional actually pairs nicely with the next key to victory.

Make Jalon Daniels play QB

Similar to the infamous Jalen Hurts comments made by Tennessee Titans All-Pro defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons, the Steelers' defense needs to make Jalon Daniels play quarterback in Week 6. Heading into Sunday's game, Daniels has thrown for 377 passing yards, two touchdowns and three interceptions — numbers that jump off the page in a bad way. His 74.6 passer rating isn't threatening. But his dual-threat ability, which has resulted in 87 rushing yards and 5.4 yards per carry, could be a problem. The Steelers need to keep Daniels in the pocket and force him to win the game through the air, which should easily give Pittsburgh an advantage.

For up-to-date Steelers coverage, including any roster news and injury updates, follow us on X @TheSteelersWire and give our Facebook page a like.

This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers' defensive keys to victory for Week 6 game vs. Buccaneers

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — Duncan Brune had two rushing touchdowns, Irving Brown had 87 yards rushing and a TD on eight carries, and Ohio beat Sacramento State 48-7 on Saturday night.

Ohio (5-2, 3-0 Mid-American Conference) has won four straight.

Brune finished with 55 yards rushing on 12 carries and scored on runs of 3 and 14 yards.

Nick Poulos hit Preston Bowman for a 67-yard catch-and-run for a touchdown about 2 minutes into the third quarter that made it 34-0. Victor Rosa and Levi Davis each added a rushing TD for the Bobcats.

Brian Salazar Jr. threw a 38-yard touchdown pass to Kenyon Shabazz about 2 1/2 minutes into the fourth quarter for Sacramento State.

The Hornets (1-6, 0-4) have lost five in a row.

Ohio finished with 30 first downs and 469 total yards.

Poulos was 11-of-14 passing for 165 yards.

Up next

Ohio: Hosts Eastern Michigan next Saturday.

Sacramento State: Plays next Saturday at Ball State.

___

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Damien Rooney has earned his Guinness World Record title for most chin-ups [BBC]

A former professional mixed martial artist from County Down has broken the Guinness World Record for most chin-ups in an hour whilst wearing a 20lb weight.

Damien Rooney from Burren, outside Newry, clocked up 499 reps to beat the previous record of 495.

He now intends to build upon the record and push towards a fresh challenge for the 24-hour record which could require as many as 10,000 reps.

Damien, who runs his own gym, hopes to take on his next record attempt in April 2027.

What is a chin-up?

In a nutshell Damien says a chin-up is performed with your palms facing towards you and the brunt of effort being felt in the bicep. This compares with a pull-up, where your palms are facing outwards and your lats take the bulk of the strain.

During his fighting career Damien fought under the moniker "The Rage". He says it was this period of his life which fuelled a desire to compete for a Guinness World Record.

"I've always been in and around the fitness game and during my fight career I took a full liking to the strength and conditioning element of it," he said.

He says his training was more suited to chin-ups, rather than pull-ups.

"In 2018 I first attempted the most chin-ups in 24 hours and had a few unsuccessful attempts at that through injury."

These unsuccessful attempts included torn muscles and heat exhaustion. But Damien says these are inconsequential when compared with the realities of the fight game.

"It is pretty extreme. The constant overload on the body. But as painful as this is, its very localised and very much in your control – but a really rough fight? It doesn't compare. It's night and day."

Damien clocked up 499 reps to beat the previous record of 495. [BBC]

After his last unsuccessful attempt he recalibrated his training, focusing on the shorter, weighted, one hour target. Despite being much shorter, he says it is far from a sprint race.

"I think people think you'd just go out and start pumping them out but if you do that the body will fatigue and it will fatigue quickly making recovery hard. So the better way to do it is to go on a cycle where you are maximising your work but maximising your recovery in between."

To this end he broke the hour down into two minute blocks with 30 seconds of rest in between.

Ahead of a fresh assault on the 24-hour record, Damien will next take on the one- hour, unweighted challenge.

"Without the weighted jacket the record is something like 1,010 so it is night and day without it."

Those future challenges are for a different day. But last week Damien was celebrating confirmation from Guinness that his record had been confirmed.

After beginning this journey in 2018, for him this is an achievement worth waiting for.

"I did this on June 1 and they told me in September. It can be up to 20 weeks because they have to go through the tapes and watch it from different angles. They are very stringent to make sure it is authentic."

• Hundreds gather for world record exercise bid

• Guinness World Records celebrate 70 years of record-breaking

• Dowman presented with three Guinness World Records

PASADENA, Calif. (AP) — Ty Dieffenbach began the season as UCLA's third-string quarterback. He's running the show now for the 12th-ranked Bruins, the only undefeated team remaining in the Big Ten and Southeastern conferences.

The 21-year-old was 23 of 33 for 264 yards with one sack and one interception in the Bruins' 17-7 victory over Wisconsin on Saturday night in his first start of the season.

“What a warrior, all the way around,” Bruins coach Bob Chesney said. “To stand in there and have the confidence to do what he did, the third-down throws that he was able to make and see the game clean as can be, it was a really reassuring day.”

Dieffenbach took over in the second half of last week's win at then-No. 13 Oregon after Nico Iamaleava injured his leg. He leapfrogged Maddon Iamaleava, Nico’s younger brother, on the depth chart.

“We all were very confident in him and felt like he can have this type of game,” Chesney said. “He sees the game well, he throws a nice football, he's accurate, he's on time.”

The Bruins (6-0, 4-0 Big Ten) are sure to move into the top 10 on Monday, a stunning turnaround from last year when they won just three games and coach DeShaun Foster was fired after an 0-3 start.

“We're just getting started, for real,” Dieffenbach said.

Dieffenbach commanded the Rose Bowl field, where he used to attend games with his older brother who was a UCLA student. Among the 36,045 fans on Saturday was a contingent from his hometown of Agoura, about 38 miles away.

“It was awesome seeing all them show up,” he said. “I love all them and I appreciate them.”

Hearing “California Love” blare from the speakers before the fourth quarter, with lights flashing and fans holding up four fingers in the school's traditional 4's Up gesture, brought back memories for Dieffenbach.

“Five years ago I was sitting in the stands like watching guys do this, and now I'm there," he said. “It was just special to me.”

Dieffenbach traveled a circuitous route to Westwood. In high school, he began as a wide receiver but impressed his coach with his throwing in practice enough that he switched to quarterback to fill a need.

He moved on to Pitt, where in two seasons he never appeared in a game. The Panthers wanted him to move to tight end, but he wanted to remain a quarterback, so he hit the transfer portal.

Dieffenbach headed back to California, ending up at Cal Poly in the central coast town of San Luis Obispo. He started nine of 11 games, throwing for 1,305 yards, nine TDs and nine interceptions while rushing for 321 yards and four scores.

In January, he transferred to UCLA, where Chesney had just arrived from James Madison tasked with reviving the once proud program.

The Badgers bottled up UCLA's run game while cutting the lead to 10-7 going into the fourth quarter, but Dieffenbach stayed cool. He made clutch throws and converted third downs in a gutsy performance.

“His confidence never wavered and our confidence in him never wavered,” Chesney said. “His belief in himself and his receivers certainly stood out.”

___

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Jaylen Brown calls LeBron James the NBA's GOAT, sparking mixed reactions from fans over his praise and apparent hesitation.

Jaylen Brown put his new Philadelphia 76ers teammate LeBron James at the top of basketball’s all-time list in a video posted Saturday by FOX29 Philadelphia’s Jeff Skversky.

The five-time All-Star spent his first 10 NBA seasons with the Boston Celtics before being traded to Philadelphia this summer. Now preparing for his first season alongside the four-time MVP, Brown shared his thoughts on the NBA legend, drawing mixed reactions from fans.

Jaylen Brown’s LeBron James GOAT Praise Draws Mixed Reactions

Speaking about James in Skversky’s video, the 2024 NBA Finals MVP offered a clear assessment of his new teammate.

“That’s the greatest player to play the game,” Brown said.

The remark drew different interpretations from fans, particularly over how Brown delivered his answer. Some welcomed the praise, while others questioned whether he sounded entirely comfortable making the declaration.

“Wear it like a badge, son,” one fan wrote.

Another questioned his response: “Why’d he hesitate?”

One fan scrutinized his delivery: “Stuttered, mouth twitched, eyes shifted, shrugged.”

“He already tired of glazing LeBron,” another remarked.

Other fans pointed out that Brown had previously expressed similar admiration for James.

“This ain’t new either. He’s been saying this,” one fan commented. “He actually is smart,” another added.

The former Celtics star’s praise went beyond calling James the greatest player ever. He also spoke about his admiration for James’ approach to the game.

“It’s incredible to see his work ethic and his process,” Brown said, adding that playing alongside James was an “honor.”

Skversky also reported that Brown smiled while acknowledging that he sometimes finds it hard to believe he and James are teammates.

Brown had expressed similar admiration in early August. During a Twitch stream, he described the opportunity to play with James as a chance to learn from “one of if not the greatest player of all time,” according to NBC Sports Philadelphia.

SEE ALSO:‘Acts Like I Got Arrested for a DUI’ – Kevin Durant Takes Shots at Mat Ishbia After Suns Owner’s Brutally Honest Admission

The two faced each other in the 2018 Eastern Conference Finals, when the Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Celtics in seven games. Brown, then 21, led Boston with 19.7 points per game, while James averaged 33.6 points, 9.0 rebounds and 8.4 assists. It was Brown’s second NBA season, while James was making his eighth consecutive trip to the Finals.

The four-time NBA Finals MVP finished that series with 35 points, 15 rebounds and nine assists in Game 7, playing all 48 minutes to lead Cleveland to an 87-79 victory in Boston.

This article originally appeared on Pro Football Network.

Writing Los Angeles Kings right wing Adrian Kempe (9) takes the puck during an NHL game against the Boston Bruins, Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026, at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California.

LOS ANGELES — A quick start evolved into a slow burn. 

The Kings, on three days’ rest, aimed to finally join the win column as they hosted the Boston Bruins, who were playing their second game of a back-to-back. The Kings looked like the team with more rest right out of the gate.

Alex Laferriere capped off a strong opening shift with a tap-in goal to get the Kings on the board just 31 seconds into the game.

But then the Kings (0-4-2) spent the next 19:29 failing to reach the back of the net, and the Bruins (7-2-0) pulled out of reach with a pair of empty-net goals in the Kings’ 4-1 loss on Saturday night at Crypto.com Arena. 

“The first period, we were all over them and hounding pucks,” Laferriere said. “We know these guys played last night and we let them kind of outwork us in our own building the last two periods. We can't let that happen.”

The Kings have now lost their first six games to start the 2026-2027 season and are the only team in the league without a win. 

After Laferriere’s goal, the Kings continued to apply pressure in the opening period. They won puck battles and used their sticks in the defensive zone to disrupt passing lanes to eliminate scoring chances.

After the horn sounded, the Kings held a 12-6 shot advantage. 

But the tide began to shift in the second period.

With 1:41 remaining of Brandt Clarke’s penalty to begin the period, the Bruins had fresh ice to get their game going. Although the Kings ultimately killed off the penalty, the Bruins had life, and they gradually took over the game. 

“I thought in the second half of the game that their work was better than ours when it came for pucks and battles and speed,” head coach Peter Laviolette said.

Almost three minutes into the period, the Bruins tied it when a pass to the blue line got through Erik Gustafsson, which sprung David Pastrnak on a breakaway, and he fired a snapshot that beat Anton Forsberg low blocker side. 

The more time went on, the more the Bruins took control. 

Forsberg played well and stopped the Bruins as the scoring threats became more frequent, but Boston broke through again with just over six minutes left in regulation. Forsberg was unable to cover a rebound, and four Kings defenders went for it and knocked it loose, leaving Marat Khusnutdinov all alone to tap it home.

Elias Lindholm and JJ Peterka buried empty-netters to put this one on ice and hand the Kings another frustrating loss. 

“Maybe (took our) foot off the gas a little bit,” Mikey Anderson said. “ That's the thing is, you get the one, you got to get the next one. Try and keep pushing and get it going. So maybe could have scored another one in the first. We don't. Either way, you got to try and come out and keep going. I thought we let up just a bit too much.”

Similar to last season, the Kings are struggling to score goals. Through six games, they’re averaging two goals a game, which is tied for the second-lowest mark in hockey. Six games is obviously a small sample size to look at, but given the Kings’ recent track record, it’s still notable.

“I think just simplifying things, I think that's a good way to start,” Laferriere said. “We haven't really gotten any bounces and it's easy to blame it on the bounces, but our work ethic is just not good enough right now. When we start working harder, we're going to get those bounces and I think that's just what we've got to do to try and turn it around.”

The Kings now hit the road for a five-game East Coast road trip as they look to change their fortunes. It starts at 4 p.m. on Tuesday in the nation’s capital against the Washington Capitals.

Even though they’re leaving town, they will carry the feeling of this loss with them.

“I think we've got to take it with us and stew on it a little bit,” Laviolette said about whether the Kings need to turn the page. “I don't think just pushing it away is going to do any good. We need to digest it and use it as fuel.”

Mind the Gap opportunity for Celtic after Derek drops points at DensA very welcome gift from the game at Dens Park last night, Celtic must take full advantage this afternoon against Hearts at Parkhead…

Oliver Sorensen and Callum McGregor of Celtic celebrate with their teammates after the Scottish Premiership match between Motherwell and Celtic at Fir Park on October 11, 2026. (Photo by Zak Mauger/Getty Images)

Celtic received something of a boost last night when our nearest title challengers the Rangers reverted to type and caved when the pressure was turned up a notch, leading to them dropping valuable points in the process.

The latest Ibrox club had the chance to go top

The latest Ibrox club had the chance to go top and put pressure on the Champions who have a tough home clash pending against Hearts this afternoon, but ultimately failed as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Steven Pressley’s Dundee at Dens Park.

The gap between Celtic and the Ibrox club has been cut to a solitary point, but a hoops win this afternoon will stretch that gap to four, and give us a bit more breathing space at the summit.

This is a gift that we can ill afford to pass up, and although it will be a tough task to overcome a decent Jambos side, it’s well within our reach to beat the Gorgie side and stretch the gap at the top.

The atmosphere at Celtic Park will also be more upbeat

The atmosphere at Celtic Park will also be more upbeat this afternoon, more so than it would have been had the latest Ibrox club beaten Dundee last night.  This  should be a major boost for our players as they bid to get back to winning ways after Thursday’s disappointing result in Lisbon on Thursday evening.

Derek McInnes

The latest Ibrox club have been showered with unadulterated praise these past few weeks, tipped to win everything on offer, with one hack even suggesting they would win the league by a ‘canter’ while others have tipped Derek McInnes to deliver a treble.

Guilty of believing their own hype

The reality is that whilst being a half decent side, they still have a long way to go to be considered certs for anything let alone the title, and they are nothing more than an average group of players guilty of believing their own hype.

Daizen Maeda of Celtic reacts after scoring his team’s second goal during the Scottish Premiership match between Celtic and Heart of Midlothian at Celtic Park on May 16, 2026. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Come on you Bhoys in green

Today the five-in-a-row Champions have been handed the perfect chance to emphatically remind them that Celtic are still the finest team in Scotland. We need to take full advantage of their failures and further stretch our gap at the top so let’s get behind the Bhoys from the word go and help them deliver the three points.

COYBIG!

Just an Ordinary Bhoy

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Celtic in the Fifties by Matt Corr, in two volumes, both published on 4th September 2026 by Celtic Star Books. Click on image to order.

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Why Guardians’ Stephen Vogt still has supreme confidence in Cleveland after Game 4 loss to Rays appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Cleveland Guardians let a chance at a commanding ALCS lead slip away on Saturday night, but Stephen Vogt is not hitting the panic button. The Tampa Bay Rays beat the Guardians 7-3 at Progressive Field in Game 4, evening the series at 2-2 after a rain postponement pushed the game back a day.

Afterward, the Cleveland manager made it clear he still likes where his team stands.

“We’re great. We’re right in it. We’re even,” Vogt said. “Again, now it’s a three-game series, and I put our guys up against any team in the world in a three-game series.”

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“It’s a 3-game series… I’d put our guys up against any team in the world in a 3-game series” – Stephen Vogt #Guardians#Rayspic.twitter.com/cs92HgXUqQ

— Daryl Ruiter (@RuiterWrongFAN) October 18, 2026

Vogt acknowledged the missed opportunity but stressed that the focus has already shifted.

“Of course we would have loved to have taken a 3-1 lead tonight, but it’s not in the cards,” he said. “We can’t control that now. We just show up ready to play a good Game 5 and have a happy flight to Tampa.”

Cleveland’s defense let it down in a costly late stretch. The game was tied until the sixth inning, when Junior Caminero lined a go-ahead RBI double into the left-field corner over a leaping Jose Ramirez. The Rays then broke it open with three runs in the seventh, helped by a fielding error from second baseman Travis Bazzana and a misplay by right fielder Chase DeLauter. Yandy Diaz capped the scoring with a two-run homer in the ninth.

Bazzana answered with a home run in the bottom of the seventh, and Brayan Rocchio added an RBI single, but the Guardians could not close the gap. Rays starter Nick Martinez held Cleveland to one run on two hits over 5 1/3 innings.

The loss stung after the Guardians had grabbed a 2-1 series lead with a 3-2 win in Game 3 on Thursday, when Petey Halpin hit a go-ahead two-run homer in the fifth inning.

Now the series becomes a best-of-three. The Guardians host Game 5 on Sunday at Progressive Field before the series shifts back to Tropicana Field for Game 6 on Monday and a potential Game 7.

The winner will face the Milwaukee Brewers, who swept the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NLCS, in the World Series.

Related: Guardians’ Travis Bazzana makes 1st postseason home run count vs. Rays

Related: Guardians’ Petey Halpin somehow survives wall collision to make incredible catch vs. Rays

LOS ANGELES — The Kings scored an early goal, 31 seconds into the game, but that didn't change the result. The Bruins were still able to clobber the Kings 4-1.

Alex Laferriere was plugged into the first line to pair with Adrian Kempe and Artemi Panarin. That move paid dividends for the Kings as they saw quick results early in the game.

“Every time I play with [Kempe and Panarin] we have good energy and good chemistry,” said Laferriere. “Just trying to make it easy for those guys to play the game and just trying to find open ice.”

Within the first minute of the game, Laferriere scored a goal to give the Kings an early lead. This goal allowed Los Angeles to control the tempo and keep the puck in the throughout the first period.

Despite a strong start by the Kings in the first period, it all came crashing down. The Bruins were able to flip the script and take control in the last two periods.

In the second period, David Pastrnak had a breakaway goal for Boston that shifted the momentum. The Bruins pushed the tempo, which allowed them to keep the puck in the Kings' defensive zone.

Los Angeles couldn’t keep up with the tempo, which translated to more penalties for the team. The Kings racked up 21 penalty minutes while the Bruins only had 11minutes in the box.

Heading into the night, the Bruins had 108 penalty minutes, which lead the league.

However, the Kings were so sloppy that they spent more time in the box than the most penalized team.

The Kings gave up a 1-0 lead to a Bruins team that was coming off back-to-back games played. This was a golden opportunity for Los Angeles that only resulted in a disappointing loss.

“We got to take [the loss] with us and stew on it a little bit. It's certainly not where we want to be,” said Coach Laviolette. “I thought the start was really good and on point and then as the second period rolled over it just seemed to tilt the other way. So we've got to be better.”

Six games into the season and the Kings have lost all six of those games. Los Angeles is the only team in the NHL that has yet to secure a victory.

Now the Kings head on a five-game road trip without much momentum on their side. However, this loss to the Bruins could be a turning point for the Kings to pull away some victories.

Even though the Kings lost, the first line change gave the team an energy boost that they desperately needed. The hot start was a sign of how fluently the Kings could play, but they didn’t finish the job. This loss showed the Kings that they needed to execute for 60 minutes, not just the first minute.

Sep 13, 2025; South Bend, Indiana, USA; A gold Notre Dame Fighting Irish helmet on the field before a game against the Texas A&M Aggies at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael Caterina-Imagn Images

The No. 2 Notre Dame Fighting Irish saw their College Football Playoff path take a major hit on Saturday night, falling 28-24 to the BYU Cougars in Provo. But one former NFL referee believes the Irish were robbed of a final chance to win it.

Rules analyst Terry McAulay says there appeared to be one second left on the clock when Notre Dame’s final pass fell incomplete, and that replay officials should have reviewed the situation, which could have given the Irish one more play.

Controversial Finish in Provo

Trailing by four points in the game, Notre Dame had a first-and-goal on the final play of the game. Quarterback CJ Carr threw toward wide receiver Jaden Greathouse in the back of the end zone, but the pass fell incomplete as Greathouse appeared to be held on his way to the ground.

No flag was thrown, and the game was ruled over. On the ABC broadcast, ESPN rules analyst Matt Austin said he thought the play deserved a penalty.

“I think it warranted a flag. That’s a lot of contact where you’re not playing the ball… I would’ve supported a DPI.”

ESPN/ABC rules analyst Matt Austin on the Notre Dame-BYU finish.

(There’s also the question of the field clock, which showed 1 second remaining) https://t.co/JzKewlL57a

— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) October 18, 2026

“I think it warranted a flag. That’s a lot of contact where you’re not playing the ball… I would’ve supported a DPI,” Austin said, via Awful Announcing.

But the pass interference non-call wasn’t the only issue. As fans and media members dug into the replay, many noticed that the clock still showed one second remaining when the ball hit the ground.

‘ND would have had one more play’

McAulay, a former NFL referee who is now a rules analyst for CBS Sports, weighed in late Saturday night, confirming that replay officials missed a chance to correct the clock.

“As some have noted, there was indeed :01 on the bug clock when the pass hit the ground (BYU/ND). Replay should have reviewed to determine if the in-stadium clock was at :01 at that point and if so, ND would have had one more play,” McAulay wrote on X.

There’s no telling how the game would have played out if Notre Dame was given one more chance at the end zone, but they should have at least had the opportunity.

The post Former NFL referee confirms mistake in Notre Dame vs. BYU game appeared first on The Comeback: Today’s Top Sports Stories & Reactions.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 10: Anthony Volpe #11 of the New York Yankees looks on after the fifth inning against the Colorado Rockies at Yankee Stadium on September 10, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) GettyNEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 07: Anthony Volpe #11 of the New York Yankees reacts after his fly ball was interfered with by fans during the sixth inning in game three of the American League Division Series against the Tampa Bay Rays at Yankee Stadium on October 07, 2026 in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by Caleb Bowlin/Getty Images) GettyNEW YORK, NEW YORK - AUGUST 12: Manager Aaron Boone #17 of the New York Yankees calls to the bullpen during the sixth inning against the Seattle Mariners at Yankee Stadium on August 12, 2026 in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images) Getty

The New York Yankees are heating up in conversations about Anthony Volpe.

The headlining question is whether or not he should stay in New York.

As grueling as waiting can be, one MLB insider isn’t banking on getting an answer anytime soon.

MLB Insider Expects Yankees To Play the Waiting Game

GettyNEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 07: Anthony Volpe #11 of the New York Yankees reacts after his fly ball was interfered with by fans during the sixth inning in game three of the American League Division Series against the Tampa Bay Rays at Yankee Stadium on October 07, 2026 in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by Caleb Bowlin/Getty Images)

Phillip Martinez of SNY released his payroll analysis for New York on Oct. 17.

In this analysis, he revealed his thought process on 25-year-old Volpe.

“Volpe has one more year of arbitration after this one, but based on how his 2026 went, the Yankees will likely wait before exploring an extension,” he wrote. “But he’d be a prime candidate if he takes the second base job and keeps it in 2027.”

If he can compete for the second base job and show consistency in his success, this could play out quite well for both parties down the road.

But that’s his one condition — play second base, and play it well.

His 2026 stat sheet won’t cut it. Between recovery, inconsistency, and having been demoted to Triple-A, his season was anything but flawless.

“Now, with Chisholm unlikely to return, Volpe has a chance to stay at second base,” Bryan Hoch of MLB.com noted on Oct. 16. “He has an influential supporter in his corner — Judge spoke highly of Volpe’s character and grit after the ALDS loss, saying, “If we were going to go win a World Series, we needed Anthony Volpe on the team.”

Volpe’s situation has been stirring up frustration for fans, but we are likely far away from any type of decision right now.

Yankees Are Facing a Long & Exhausting Offseason

GettyNEW YORK, NEW YORK – AUGUST 12: Manager Aaron Boone #17 of the New York Yankees calls to the bullpen during the sixth inning against the Seattle Mariners at Yankee Stadium on August 12, 2026 in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

New York has several players set for free agency this year.

Of those impending free agents, Jazz Chisholm Jr., Trent Grisham, David Bednar and Paul Goldschmidt stand out most.

Not only could the Yankees be on the cusp of losing such valuable veterans, but skipper Aaron Boone and general manager Brian Cashman are facing heat.

Then, add on the hectic nature of hot stove season, and New York is in for a chaotic next couple of months.

They’re not alone — every ballclub is going through similar motions.

New York had a dreadful ending to its 2026 run in the postseason, and the organization will do anything to avoid being in a similar position in years to come.

But will they make the necessary moves to make a deeper run?

Whether or not this means extending Volpe when the time comes, the franchise has heavy decisions to make.

This article was originally published on HEAVY

The post New York Yankees Could Delay Anthony Volpe Decision Until 2027 Breakout appeared first on HEAVY.

College football is unpredictable and delightful, which is why we live for what happens on Saturdays. And Week 7 absolutely delivered, with five (!) top-10 teams losing on the same day.
 
Each Sunday, I’ll publish my biggest takeaways from the college football weekend. I’ll highlight the most interesting storylines, track College Football Playoff contenders and specifically shout out individual and team performances that deserve the spotlight.
 

1. Maybe there are no elite teams in college football this year?

I don’t think there’s any other possible takeaway after a weekend that saw five of the top eight teams in college football fall. And Miami nearly lost to rival Florida State in double overtime! There appear to be a lot of very good college football teams that have flaws that can be exploited. No one is infallible. There are no unbeaten SEC teams left. UCLA (!) is the last undefeated team in the Big Ten. This season isn’t going according to anyone’s plan, with the teams that looked dominant against inferior competition struggling when  a team with comparable talent lines up across the field. Or maybe they just succumbed to the SEC’s game of musical chairs. Or perhaps their big-name quarterback no-showed.
 
The college football environment is flatter than it’s ever been before in the NIL and transfer portal age. Talent is dispersed more widely. If Alabama and Georgia can’t stockpile talent like they used to, then more teams have good players who can beat teams with other good players. It’s very fun but also chaotic. And it seems like it’s one of those years in this beautiful, insane sport.
 

2. Gunner Stockton is more unreliable than we thought he was.

I’ve never thought Georgia’s starting quarterback was one of the best in the sport. But I figured he was reliably consistent, someone who wasn’t going to cost his team games. That is no longer how I feel about Stockton! His three turnovers against Auburn — in particular, the last-minute fumble — put the Bulldogs in a precarious-to-terrible position. I know that Georgia had an emotional (and physically taxing) win over Alabama a week ago, so Auburn was catching the Dawgs in prime letdown position. But Georgia is supposed to be unflappable. Supposed to be ultra-reliable on defense, and supposed to be putting the team in good positions offensively. What Stockton did to cost his team was both out of character and genuinely shocking. And it’s a red flag.
 

3. Notre Dame probably should just win out to make the College Football Playoff. Unless it wants a few sleepless nights.

The Irish are in basically the same spot as last year. Their season comes down to two games, and they’ve got to win at least one, you’d think. Notre Dame could certainly use a win worthy of propping up a CFP-worthy resume! To avoid the stress of the bubble, Notre Dame should just beat Miami on Nov. 7. Then, there’s no ifs, ands or buts. Because, otherwise, it’s a 10-2 record with two losses to the two best teams on the schedule — and you’ve got to hope you stay ranked in the top 12 of the CFP rankings. It’s probably best to avoid that stress (and subjectivity) and finish 11-1.
 

4. BYU’s big win was perhaps even bigger for the Big 12 conference.

And the league knows it.
 

5. Ohio State and Indiana both have legit defenses. But what about their quarterbacks?

Ohio State starting quarterback Julian Sayin will probably be out for “several weeks,” Ryan Day said after the Buckeyes hung on to beat the Hoosiers on Saturday. The last time we saw Sayin on the broadcast, he was on the sidelines with his right arm in a sling. Josh Hoover played through a shoulder injury sustained midway through the game as well. But even before they got hurt, neither quarterback really starred in a game mostly defined by the defenses. Sayin and Hoover both missed wide-open receivers, and Sayin’s touchdown pass to Jeremiah Smith was only successful because, well, it’s Jeremiah. He adjusted and made the play on the ball.
 
Even Hoover’s would-be game-winning throw to Nick Marsh should have been a lot simpler — if he got the ball out quicker. That final Indiana play is going to be one that keeps Curt Cignetti up at night; he said after the game it’s “a hard one to swallow.” Have we ever had this many questions about a QB who has an 18-0 TD-to-INT ratio?
 
Ohio State and Indiana both appear to have championship-caliber defenses. But due to health concerns (with Sayin) and performance concerns (with both when healthy on Saturday), it’s worth wondering what to expect from the quarterback position in big moments going forward.
 

6. Texas is having a no-good, very-bad time.

Two weeks ago, the Longhorns were ranked No. 1 in the nation — thanks entirely to that dramatic fourth-quarter comeback against Ohio State. But they didn’t look like the best team in the country. And now they’ve suffered two bad losses back-to-back. The Longhorn offense remains confounding and unimpressive, which puts more pressure on Steve Sarkisian to potentially give up playcalling. Texas has to do something.
 
Saturday’s loss to Florida was the Longhorns’ biggest blown lead at home against an unranked opponent since 1965. Against one of the worst pass defenses in the country, Arch Manning and co. accounted for just one passing touchdown and 173 total passing yards (and Manning fumbled with less than two minutes to go in the fourth quarter).
 
There is far too much talent on this offense — at least on paper — for this unit to be so ineffective. And now the season feels like it’s slipping away, with two losses already and games against Ole Miss, Missouri and LSU to go.  
 

7. Everything’s coming up JMU — again.

Earlier this week, I wrote about the former James Madison football coaches and what they’re doing at Indiana and UCLA. But how about the current head coach? Billy Napier’s Dukes are 7-0 and the clear favorites to win the Sun Belt. Could JMU get to the College Football Playoff for a second consecutive year? The eventual Pac-12 champion will have something to say about that, but it’ll be something worth tracking.

Vegas Golden Knights center Brett Howden (21) and Vegas Golden Knights center William Karlsson (71) celebrate an awarded empty-net goal during an NHL game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 17, 2026 at T-Mobile Arena.

LAS VEGAS - The Vegas Golden Knights defeated the Pittsburgh Penguins, 6-2, in an NHL game at T-Mobile Arena on October 17, 2026, and The Sporting Tribune's Paige Kuwata was there to capture the following images.

Vegas Golden Knights center Brett Howden (21) and Vegas Golden Knights center William Karlsson (71) celebrate an awarded empty-net goal during an NHL game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 17, 2026 at T-Mobile Arena.

Paige Kuwata - The Sporting Tribune

Vegas Golden Knights center Brett Howden (21) and Vegas Golden Knights center William Karlsson (71) celebrate an awarded empty-net goal during an NHL game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 17, 2026 at T-Mobile Arena.

Vegas Golden Knights center Raphael Lavoie (36) fights off Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Kris Letang (58) and Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Kaedan Korczak (6) during an NHL game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 17, 2026 at T-Mobile Arena.

Paige Kuwata - The Sporting Tribune

Vegas Golden Knights center Raphael Lavoie (36) fights off Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Kris Letang (58) and Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Kaedan Korczak (6) during an NHL game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 17, 2026 at T-Mobile Arena.

Vegas Golden Knights center Jack Eichel (9) picks up the puck in the defensive zone during an NHL game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 17, 2026 at T-Mobile Arena.

Paige Kuwata - The Sporting Tribune

Vegas Golden Knights center Jack Eichel (9) picks up the puck in the defensive zone during an NHL game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 17, 2026 at T-Mobile Arena.

Vegas Golden Knights center Raphael Lavoie (36) attempts to score a goal against Pittsburgh Penguins goaltender Sergei Murashov (1) during an NHL game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 17, 2026 at T-Mobile Arena.

Paige Kuwata - The Sporting Tribune

Vegas Golden Knights center Raphael Lavoie (36) attempts to score a goal against Pittsburgh Penguins goaltender Sergei Murashov (1) during an NHL game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 17, 2026 at T-Mobile Arena.

Pittsburgh Penguins right wing Rickard Rakell (67) fights for the puck behind the net during an NHL game against the Vegas Golden Knights on October 17, 2026 at T-Mobile Arena.

Paige Kuwata - The Sporting Tribune

Pittsburgh Penguins right wing Rickard Rakell (67) fights for the puck behind the net during an NHL game against the Vegas Golden Knights on October 17, 2026 at T-Mobile Arena.

Vegas Golden Knights goaltender Adin Hill (33) blocks a shot from Pittsburgh Penguins right wing Rickard Rakell (67) during an NHL game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 17, 2026 at T-Mobile Arena.

Paige Kuwata - The Sporting Tribune

Vegas Golden Knights goaltender Adin Hill (33) blocks a shot from Pittsburgh Penguins right wing Rickard Rakell (67) during an NHL game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 17, 2026 at T-Mobile Arena.

Vegas Golden Knights defenseman Noah Hanifin (15) rims the puck around the boards during an NHL game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 17, 2026 at T-Mobile Arena.

Paige Kuwata - The Sporting Tribune

Vegas Golden Knights defenseman Noah Hanifin (15) rims the puck around the boards during an NHL game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 17, 2026 at T-Mobile Arena.

Vegas Golden Knights right wing Mark Stone (61) celebrates a power play goal during an NHL game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 17, 2026 at T-Mobile Arena.

Paige Kuwata - The Sporting Tribune

Vegas Golden Knights right wing Mark Stone (61) celebrates a power play goal during an NHL game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 17, 2026 at T-Mobile Arena.

Vegas Golden Knights right wing Mark Stone (61) and Pittsburgh Penguins center Sidney Crosby (87) battle for the puck during an NHL game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 17, 2026 at T-Mobile Arena.

Paige Kuwata - The Sporting Tribune

Vegas Golden Knights right wing Mark Stone (61) and Pittsburgh Penguins center Sidney Crosby (87) battle for the puck during an NHL game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 17, 2026 at T-Mobile Arena.

Vegas Golden Knights center Marc Gatcomb (17) and Pittsburgh Penguins center Connor Dewar (19) battle for the puck during an NHL game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 17, 2026 at T-Mobile Arena.

Paige Kuwata - The Sporting Tribune

Vegas Golden Knights center Marc Gatcomb (17) and Pittsburgh Penguins center Connor Dewar (19) battle for the puck during an NHL game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 17, 2026 at T-Mobile Arena.

CARSON, Calif. (AP) — Gabriel Pirani scored the equalizer for Los Angeles in a four-goal first half to help the Galaxy earn a 2-2 draw with San Diego FC on Saturday night.

Los Angeles (10-11-10) jumped in front in the 4th minute when Sergi Roberto set up João Klauss for his ninth goal in 14 appearances this season.

Anders Dreyer pulled San Diego (8-12-10) even in the 10th minute when he scored on a penalty kick. Dreyer's 13th goal of the season came after Cédric Bakambu was fouled by LA keeper JT Marcinkowski.

The Galaxy regained the lead seven minutes later when Erik Thommy used assists from Harbor Miller and Marco Reus to score for the second time this season.

Pirani netted the equalizer in the 39th minute to cap the scoring. It was the midfielder's fourth goal in 10 matches this season.

Marcinkowski finished with five saves for the Galaxy, who have gone 4-2-2 since the start of September.

Pablo Sisniega saved seven shots in his second start this season for San Diego, which beat the Galaxy 3-1 at home to close out August but haven't won since — going 0-4-4.

Up next

San Diego: Hosts Seattle Sounders on Saturday.

Los Angeles: At Los Angeles FC on Oct. 26.

___

See AP’s full soccer coverage here

WATERTOWN — It took the program with the most success in the history of sanctioned South Dakota Class AA boys soccer to curtail Watertown's bid for its first-ever state championship.

Top-seeded Sioux Falls Lincoln (13-1-2) used a penalty-kick goal with 5:46 remaining in regulation to tie the game at 1-1 before eventually prevailing 2-1 after a penalty-kicks shootout on Saturday, Oct. 17 at the Allen Mitchell Athletic Complex.

The title was the sixth overall, and fourth in a row, for the Patriots since South Dakota sanctioned high school soccer in 2012. They earned with a gutsy effort that included a clutch save by senior goalie Opland Sonnichsen in the shootout.

"We've practice this (shootouts) the last month," Sonnichsen, a two-year starter in net, said. "I trust our offense, so I knew that one save would be enough."

In state high school playoff soccer, if the two teams are tied after regulation there is an overtime period that is divided into two 10-minute sessions. If the match is still tied after overtime, it goes to a shootout where each team selects five players to kick again the other's team goalie. The team take turns alternating shots. It keeps going to additional shooters until some team snaps the deadlock.

The first four shooters for each team — Carson Schlaht, Isaac Thorson, Roger Carranza and Matthew Bertsch for Watertown and Miles Rolfing, Charles Krueger, Holden Hilmoe and Grant Oleson — each made their shots before Sonnichsen stopped the scoring bid of Watertown's Xane Fligge. Marlo Gerling then fired his shot past Watertown goalie Owen Muller and the Patriots' celebration followed.

"I had a little hint, but it's really a big-guessing game when it comes to PKs ... a little luck on the dive," Sonnichsen said.

Lincoln spoiled the ending it what otherwise has been the most successful season in Watertown soccer history, not just the Arrows' history as a sanctioned AA team that started in 2014 but also to the program's many years of fielding a team in club soccer that dates back to 1999.

Watertown has spent years trying to play catchup against Sioux Falls and others that got a much-earlier start in the sport. Until Saturday, no Watertown team had never played for a state championship (club or high school, regardless of class).

The 2026 Arrows, a group that includes 16 seniors, put itself in the school's record books by compiling the most wins (16-1-1) and also the program's first Eastern South Dakota Conference title.

Watertown was less than six minutes away away from adding the state title to its resume thanks to Roger Carranza's goal just over seven minutes into the second half on Saturday. For Carranza, it was his 23rd goal of the season — a program record.

"I told the guys that we can't hang our heads about anything," Watertown coach Jesse Hauck said. "We figured it'd come down to the way it did. I'm so proud of this group, so happy for this group. I feel bad for the seniors, I really do, but there's nothing to hang our heads about."

Hauck, whose uncle Steve helped formed the Watertown Youth Soccer Association in the 1990s and served as the head coach for the first three Watertown high school boys soccer teams, said nobody was to blame.

"One shot, one miss or one this or that. You can say "what-if" leading up to that or whatever but I can't point a finger," he said. "We did everything we could. Sometimes it bounces your way and sometimes it doesn't. That's how the game is, unfortunately."

Carranza earned Offensive Player of the Game honors and Lincoln's Oleson earned Defensive Player of the Game honors.

In the end, Lincoln added another championship to its rich history. Watertown hopes that Saturday and the 2026 season will be a springboard to more opportunities.

"To see where our numbers are, I'm happy where everything is for Watertown soccer, not just on the school side but also on the club side," Hauck said. "There's going to be teams coming. We have too many good kids coming up, too many good coaches and too much motivation. Hopefully this just keeps driving that growth just to get back to this point again.

Here's more on Saturday's other championship games:

Class AA Girls

Second-seeded Harrisburg (16-0-2) captured its fifth-straight state title with a somewhat dominant performance in a 2-0 win over top-seeded Pierre (14-2-1). The two teams battled to a 0-0 draw in September.

In the rematch, Harrisburg set the tone from the start and fired more than 20 shots before Pierre even notched its first shot in the final two minutes of the match.

Despite the pressure, Harrisburg didn't find the net until Bria Miller scored on a penalty kick with 14:12 remaining in the second half. Rylee Gallagher added a second goal with 6:22 left.

Gallagher was selected as the Offensive Player of the Game and teammate Aubrey Zink the Defensive Player of the Game.

Pierre goalkeeper Emlyn Swanson shattered the championship record for most saves. Jillian Barkus of O'Gorman set the old record with 11 in 2015.

2026 SOCCER PLAYOFFS: Watertown edges SF Jefferson in state semis, gets six all-conference players

Class A Boys

Top-seeded James Valley Christian capped a perfect 16-0 season by winning a second-straight championship with a 4-0 victory over third-seeded Hot Springs (9-2-4).

Isaac Fast, who was selected as the Offensive Player of the Game, scored two goals and Gavin Waldner and Skylar Thielbar each added one to lead the Vikings. JVC led 2-0 at halftime and added two more goals in the second half.

JVC's Keeghan Hood earned Defensive Player of the Game honors.

Hot Springs wasn't able to score but did have a closer battle with JVC than the 8-1 loss they suffered in August. The Bison were playing in the championship game for the first time.

Class A Girls

Second-seeded Dakota Valley (14-1-1) earned some revenge with a 2-1 win on penalty kicks against two-time defending champion and top-seeded Sioux Falls Christian (11-3-1). The title was the first for the Panthers.

SFC beat Dakota Valley in a shootout to win last year's championship and it wasn't a surprise that the two teams had a similar ending this year. It was the third meeting this season between the two teams. SFC won the first 2-1 and the two teams battled to a 0-0 draw in the second.

The two teams also didn't score in the first half of Saturday's game. Victoria Gassen's goal with 27:11 in regulation gave SFC the lead. Dakota Valley tied the game just over 10 minutes later on a goal by Mallory Riibe.

Neither team scored the rest of the second half or in either of the two 10-minute periods for overtime. Dakota Valley goalkeeper Emma Honner stole the show in the shootout, stopping three Sioux Falls Christian shots in a row to lift the Panthers.

SFC's Maci Connell opened the shootout with a goal. Dakota Valley's Ava Squier answered to even the battle. Two saves by Honner, countered by successful shots by DV's Isabel Bradshaw and Raegan Kauffman left SFC needed to make its final two shots and stop the final two shots by DV.

Honner settled the matter by stopping another SFC shot. She was named the Defensive Player of the Game. Gassen was the Offensive Player of the Game.

Follow Watertown Public Opinion sports reporter Roger Merriam on X (formerly known as Twitter) @PO_Sports or email: rmerriam@thepublicopinion.com

This article originally appeared on Watertown Public Opinion: Harrisburg, SF Christian & James Valley Christian also win state titles

PASADENA, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 01: Head coach Curt Cignetti of the Indiana Hoosiers and head coach Kalen Deboer of the Alabama Crimson Tide embrace after the game in the College Football Playoff Quarterfinal at Rose Bowl Stadium on January 01, 2026 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images) GettyKNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE - OCTOBER 17: Kalen DeBoer of the Alabama Crimson Tide talks with staff while his team warms up before their game against the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium on October 17, 2026 in Knoxville, Tennessee. (Photo by Camden Hall/Getty Images) Getty

The Alabama Crimson Tide are facing a difficult reality following Saturday’s 26-10 loss to the Tennessee Volunteers, and head coach Kalen DeBoer made it clear that things are about to become considerably more demanding.

Alabama entered the season with championship expectations, but consecutive losses to Georgia and Tennessee have left the Crimson Tide at 5-2 and facing serious questions about their College Football Playoff hopes.

Following the defeat in Knoxville, DeBoer was asked what message he delivered to his players in the locker room. His response offered a revealing look at how he plans to handle the team’s struggles.

Rather than questioning his players’ effort, DeBoer emphasized that Alabama must embrace an even greater level of discomfort if it hopes to turn its season around.

Kalen DeBoer Warns Alabama Players Things Will Get Uncomfortable

“I just said it’s going to be really uncomfortable,” DeBoer said following the loss.

The Alabama coach explained that he wasn’t necessarily disappointed with his team’s preparation leading into the Tennessee matchup.

“It’s not like I didn’t feel like they practiced,” DeBoer said. “We had a lot of motivation to come back and have a great week and prepare for this game.”

However, the preparation didn’t translate into the result Alabama desperately needed.

“But moving forward, it’s going to be another level of uncomfortable,” DeBoer added.

The message comes at a particularly difficult time for Alabama, which has now lost consecutive regular-season games for the first time since 2007. Tennessee’s defense held the Crimson Tide to just 10 points, including a scoreless second half. The performance only intensified the pressure surrounding DeBoer and his program.

GettyKNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE – OCTOBER 17: Kalen DeBoer of the Alabama Crimson Tide talks with staff while his team warms up before their game against the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium on October 17, 2026 in Knoxville, Tennessee. (Photo by Camden Hall/Getty Images)

Still, the Alabama head coach doesn’t believe his players have stopped competing. He saw his players strapped to the very end. DeBoer saw that look in their eyes.

Alabama Coach Still Believes Crimson Tide Can Respond

DeBoer acknowledged that his players understand the pressure surrounding the program, particularly those who have experienced difficult stretches in previous seasons. He emphasized the importance of concentrating on one opponent rather than becoming overwhelmed by the larger implications of Alabama’s losses.

The coach also defended his players’ determination, explaining that he saw a team continuing to fight until the final moments against Tennessee.

“I thought just looking at the guys in the eyes and stuff; they were scraping until the end,” DeBoer said.

That effort gives him confidence Alabama can still respond, even as its margin for error continues to shrink. DeBoer told his players he believes they have the ability to overcome their struggles, but he also understands that belief alone won’t produce victories.

The Crimson Tide must improve their execution, eliminate costly mistakes and find greater consistency offensively. Their next opportunity comes October 24 against Texas A&M, a matchup that could have significant implications for Alabama’s postseason ambitions.

For DeBoer, the message is straightforward. Alabama’s season isn’t over, but returning to championship-level football will require a response that goes beyond simply practicing hard. The uncomfortable part begins now.

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EL PASO, Texas (AP) — Viliami Teu ran for 156 yards and two touchdowns and San Jose State beat UTEP 24-11 on Saturday night.

Daniel Rolovich threw for 193 yards and a touchdown. Carson Clark had 104 yards receiving on five catches and a touchdown for the Spartans (4-3, 2-1 Mountain West).

Rolovich threw an 11-yard touchdown to Clark to end a nine-play, 80-yard drive that lasted 4:13 for a 7-0 lead with 7:59 left in the first quarter.

To start the third, Teu ran it in from the 2 to end a five-play, 75-yard drive that made it 14-0. Teu broke it open almost eight minutes later with a 67-yard scoring dash that made it 21-0.

The Miners' (0-6, 1-3) lone touchdown occurred when Nik Henry ran it in from the 8 with 10:52 left in the fourth. Jaden Smith completed the two-point conversion with a pass to Cash Cheeks for the final margin.

Raymond Moore III threw for 195 yards for UTEP.

Up next

San Jose State: Stays on the road to face Nevada on Saturday.

UTEP: Travels to North Dakota State on Oct. 31 after a bye week.

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