No. 1 Duke goes cold in 2nd half, falls to Ohio St.

Ohio State held No. 1 Duke scoreless for the final 4 1/2 minutes and erased a 15-point second-half deficit to win 71-66 on Tuesday night.

source https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/32758958/ohio-state-shuts-no-1-duke-final-minutes-rallies-pull-upset

Knicks peeved over officiating in loss to Nets

Knicks star forward Julius Randle and coach Tom Thibodeau were unhappy after Tuesday night's game with how Randle was officiated and the free-throw discrepancy between New York and Brooklyn.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/32759012/new-york-knicks-upset-officiating-loss-brooklyn-nets

Sources: MLB, players no closer to agreement

Major League Baseball and the players union are no closer to a new collective bargaining agreement with the expiration of the current one looming, sources said.

source https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/32758345/major-league-baseball-players-union-no-closer-deal-collective-bargaining-agreement-set-expire-sources-say

NHL suspends Kings' Lemieux 5 games for biting

The NHL announced late Tuesday night that it had suspended Los Angeles Kings forward Brendan Lemieux five games for biting the hand of Ottawa Senators Brady Tkachuk last weekend.

source https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/32758416/los-angeles-kings-forward-brendan-lemieux-suspended-five-games-nhl-biting-incident

EU wants 'verifiable proof' Peng Shuai is safe

The European Union wants China to release "verifiable proof" that tennis player Peng Shuai is safe and to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into her sexual assault allegations.

source https://www.espn.com/tennis/story/_/id/32752945/european-union-wants-china-provide-verifiable-proof-peng-shuai-safe

Braves exercise 2024 option for skipper Snitker

The Atlanta Braves have locked up manager Brian Snitker for three more seasons after he guided the team to its first World Series title since 1995.

source https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/32753155/atlanta-braves-exercise-2024-option-skipper-brian-snitker

#VStrongBaby: The next generation of cancer fighters have Dick Vitale as inspiration

Vitale has helped the V Foundation since its inception. Focusing on pediatric cancer, he has helped raised $44 million for cancer research. Children who have been affected by this work are finding their own ways to help cancer.

source https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/32707817/v-week-2021-dick-vitale-battles-cancer-legacy-shines-brightly-next-generation-cancer-fighters-helped-inspire

Why Messi's Ballon d'Or win shouldn't make you angry

The Ballon d'Or is a celebration of soccer's elite players, not a scientific selection of the world's best. It's more Heisman Trophy than MVP.

source https://www.espn.com/soccer/blog-marcottis-musings/story/4535190/why-messis-ballon-dor-win-shouldnt-make-you-angry

How Texas and Oklahoma went from realignment conquerors to uncertain futures in four months

Four months ago, Texas and Oklahoma were finagling their way into the most exclusive club in college football, changing the sport by joining the SEC. Since then, it's been one issue after another.

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/32746040/oklahoma-sooners-texas-longhorns-show-how-quickly-tables-turn-college-football

Ranking the NHL's best team dogs

From Biscuit to Bolt to Smash to Bark-Andre Furry, we determined the league's top dogs.

source https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/32746233/ranking-nhl-best-team-dogs

The robots are here: Semi-automated VAR offside launches

It's almost ready: semi-automated offside to map players and make instant decisions. Here's how it works and why it's going to transform VAR.

source https://www.espn.com/soccer/blog-fifa/story/4355005/semi-automated-offside-why-arsene-wenger-thinks-it-can-fix-var

NFL MVP watch: Brady on top; Allen still worth a buy

Tom Brady is the MVP favorite, but are there better values out there? Doug Kezirian breaks down the main candidates and looks at other awards races to watch heading into Week 13.

source https://www.espn.com/chalk/story/_/id/32750284/nfl-mvp-watch-tom-brady-top-josh-allen-worth-buy

FE's new race car will be 'world's most efficient'

The all-electric Formula E series provided a first glimpse on Monday of what it said would be the world's most efficient racing car.

source https://www.espn.com/f1/story/_/id/32751936/formula-e-says-gen3-race-car-world-most-efficient

Monday, November 29, 2021

Sources: Bobo out as Auburn's OC after one year

Longtime SEC assistant coach Mike Bobo, 47, brought on staff by Auburn first-year head coach Bryan Harsin, is out after an inconsistent season with the Tigers, sources told ESPN's Adam Rittenberg Monday night.

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/32748699/auburn-tigers-offensive-coordinator-mike-bobo-just-one-season-sources-say

What's next for LSU and Notre Dame after Brian Kelly's stunning move?

In a move that will shake up the sport, Brian Kelly is leaving Notre Dame for LSU. Here's what it means for both storied programs.

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/32750188/brian-kelly-lsu-next-tigers-fighting-irish

McCarthy becomes latest Cowboys COVID case

The Cowboys' COVID-19 outbreak has spread to head coach Mike McCarthy, who will miss Thursday night's game against the Saints after testing positive for the virus.

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/32745278/sources-dallas-cowboys-coach-mike-mccarthy-tests-positive-covid-19

OU loses 2 more commits in post-Riley exodus

ESPN 300 prospects Derrick Moore and Demetrius Hunter have joined the growing list of players to decommit from Oklahoma following coach Lincoln Riley's decision to leave for USC.

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/32745121/oklahoma-loses-two-more-espn-300-commits-wake-football-coach-lincoln-riley-departure

Elder, first Black golfer to play in Masters, dies

Lee Elder, the first Black player to compete in the Masters and a four-time winner on the PGA Tour, has died at age 87.

source https://www.espn.com/golf/story/_/id/32745449/lee-elder-first-black-player-play-masters-dies-age-87

HBCU 'Hunks': Howard basketball nets NIL deal

Howard University's men's basketball team has signed an NIL deal with moving company, College H.U.N.K.S. Hauling Junk, with each player to receive money up front plus opportunities to earn more through incentives.

source https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/32745188/howard-university-men-basketball-team-signs-nil-deal-moving-company-college-hunks-hauling-junk

Coach K to help launch mental health initiative

As part of their conference alliance initiatives, the ACC, Big Ten and Pac-12 have launched a mental health awareness initiative that will include a PSA with Mike Krzyzewski, Wayne Tinkle and Brenda Frese.

source https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/32744738/atlantic-coast-conference-big-ten-pac-12-launch-mental-health-initiative-part-conference-alliance-initiatives

Nurmagomedov's Eagle FC to land in U.S. in 2022

Former UFC champ Khabib Nurmagomedov says he's expanding his MMA promotion, Eagle FC, to the U.S., beginning with an event in January in Miami.

source https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/32743952/former-ufc-lightweight-champion-khabib-nurmagomedov-expand-mma-promotion-us-2022

Pistorius transferred; will face victim's parents

Convicted murderer Oscar Pistorius has been transferred to a prison closer to the parents of Reeva Steenkamp, whom he shot to death in 2013, to allow for a face-to-face meeting ahead of his being released on parole.

source https://www.espn.com/espn/story/_/id/32743961/oscar-pistorius-prison-transfer-ahead-steenkamp-parole-meeting

Ecclestone: F1 owes its success to men like Williams

Former Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone paid tribute to the late Frank Williams as a pioneer who helped to build the modern sport and without whom it might have ceased to exist.

source https://www.espn.com/f1/story/_/id/32743569/f1-owes-success-men-frank-williams-says-bernie-ecclestone

Sunday, November 28, 2021

Ramsey: Rams 'way too good' to be stuck in skid

Frustrated amid a three-game skid that is interfering with Los Angeles' Super Bowl plans, Rams cornerback Jalen Ramsey told reporters Sunday, after a loss in Green Bay, "everything has to be better because we're too good to be losing games like this."

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32742158/shocked-jalen-ramsey-los-angeles-rams-way-too-good-mired-three-game-skid

Cowboys outbreak grows to RT, more coaches

Cowboys starting right tackle Terence Steele and several assistant coaches will miss Thursday's game against the Saints because of COVID-19 protocols.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32735892/cowboys-starting-rt-terence-steele-several-assistant-coaches-saints-due-covid-19-outbreak

Source: Kanter to change last name to Freedom

Enes Kanter plans to change his name to Enes Kanter Freedom, a source confirmed to ESPN. The Turkish-born Kanter will become a United States citizen on Monday.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/32736513/source-boston-celtics-enes-kanter-change-last-name-freedom

Source: Texans bench S Reid for violating rules

The Texans are benching safety Justin Reid for Sunday's game as punishment for a violation of team rules, a source told ESPN's Sarah Barshop.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32735895/source-houston-texans-sit-safety-justin-reid-violating-team-rules

Legendary F1 team founder Williams dies at 79

Frank Williams, the founder of one of Formula One's most successful and popular teams, has died at the age of 79.

source https://www.espn.com/f1/story/_/id/32735350/legendary-f1-team-founder-frank-williams-dies-aged-79

Bucs eyed Taylor in draft if Wirfs was unavailable

The Buccaneers were considering Jonathan Taylor with their first-round draft pick last year if Tristan Wirfs hadn't been available, one high-ranking team official told ESPN.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32731703/tampa-bay-buccaneers-considered-jonathan-taylor-2020-draft-taken-rb-no-14-tristan-wirfs-was-unavailable

Uncommon draft jackpot could help New York Jets accelerate rebuild

Sunday's Jets-Texans game will impact the draft order -- a big deal for a Jets team that could wind up with two top-10 picks for the first time ever.

source https://www.espn.com/blog/new-york-jets/post/_/id/88302/uncommon-draft-jackpot-could-help-new-york-jets-accelerate-rebuild

Sources: OBJ-Pack talks nixed by GB's low offer

Odell Beckham Jr. had sincere interest in playing for the Packers before he ultimately joined the Rams, and one issue that bogged down any talks was Green Bay's refusal to offer anything more than the veteran's minimum, according to sources.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32731510/odell-beckham-jr-had-interest-packers-joining-rams-talks-stalled-green-bay-veteran-minimum-offer-sources-say

Saturday, November 27, 2021

Riley halts LSU talk, says he's committed to OU

Lincoln Riley quickly shut down speculation that he would leave for LSU, telling reporters Saturday night, "I'm not going to be the next head coach at LSU."

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/32733147/lincoln-riley-shuts-lsu-speculation-says-committed-oklahoma

Amid investigation, Edwards to stay at ASU in '22

Arizona State coach Herm Edwards, 25-17 since leaving ESPN to join the Sun Devils, will return to the sidelines in 2022, despite speculation about his status with an ongoing NCAA investigation.

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/32732472/herm-edwards-determined-coach-arizona-state-next-season-amid-ncaa-investigation

Kambosos stuns Lopez to become unified champ

George Kambosos survived a 10th-round knockdown and upset Teofimo Lopez by split decision to become the new unified lightweight champion.

source https://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/32732844/george-kambosos-defeats-teofimo-lopez-split-decision-become-new-unified-lightweight-champion

Wolverines batter Buckeyes, clinch Big Ten East

Powered by Hassan Haskins and a dominant running game, Michigan finally topped its biggest rival, Ohio State, on Saturday, securing a spot in the Big Ten title game with a win that will also shake up the CFP standings.

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/32728948/michigan-wolverines-roll-rival-ohio-state-buckeyes-secure-spot-big-ten-title-game

Sources: Wall, Rockets discussing return to play

John Wall and the Rockets have discussed the possibility of the veteran guard returning to the rebuilding team's active roster, sources tell ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/32729070/sources-john-wall-houston-rockets-discussing-return-play

Wake Forest crushes BC, will play for ACC title

Wake Forest clinched its spot in next week's Atlantic Coast Conference championship game by crushing Boston College 41-10 Saturday in Chestnut Hill.

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/32728775/wake-forest-crushes-boston-college-clinches-berth-acc-title-game

Chiefs, Oilers HOF lineman Curley Culp, 75, dies

Hall of Fame nose tackle Curley Culp has died at 75. The former Chiefs and Oilers players revealed earlier in November that he had been diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32728072/curley-culp-hall-fame-nose-tackle-kansas-city-chiefs-houston-oilers-dies-75

Franco inks historic deal in 'great day' for Rays

Wander Franco finalized a $182 million, 11-year contract with the Tampa Bay Rays in the largest financial commitment to a player in the Rays' 24-year history.

source https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/32728490/wander-franco-finalizes-182-million-11-year-contract-great-day-tampa-bay-rays

Jota shines as Liverpool rout Southampton at Anfield

Liverpool were assured and confident in Saturday's win over Southampton, with Diogo Jota continuing his excellent form with two of the four goals.

source https://www.espn.com/soccer/liverpool-engliverpool/story/4531478/diogo-jota-8-10-as-liverpool-rout-southampton-in-easy-afternoon-at-anfield

Sources: M's getting All-Star Frazier from Padres

The Mariners are trading for All-Star second baseman/outfielder Adam Frazier in a deal with the Padres, sources told ESPN's Jeff Passan.

source https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/32727266/sources-seattle-mariners-acquiring-utility-player-adam-frazier-trade-san-diego-padres

Sources: Flu outbreak hits Sparty ahead of PSU

No. 12 Michigan State is battling a flu outbreak ahead of its regular-season finale against Penn State, sources told ESPN's Adam Rittenberg, with some players likely to try to play through symptoms.

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/32726865/sources-michigan-state-affected-flu-outbreak-football-team

From Mac Jones to Zach Wilson, inside the success and growing pains of the 10 NFL rookie QBs

Jones has the Patriots on a roll while some other rookie QBs are struggling. NFL Nation assesses all 10 first-year signal callers, and looks at what's ahead.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32644439/from-patriots-mac-jones-jets-zach-wilson-first-season-10-nfl-rookie-qbs

Kings outduel Lakers, pull away in 3-OT thriller

In a game that saw 19 ties and 23 lead changes, the Kings got 34 points from De'Aaron Fox and pulled away from the Lakers 141-137 in triple overtime.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/32724702/sacramento-kings-outduel-los-angeles-lakers-pull-away-3-ot-thriller

Source: Saints' Harris appealing three-game ban

New Orleans Saints wideout and kick returner Deonte Harris has decided to appeal a three-game suspension handed down from the NFL for a summer DUI arrest, a source confirmed to ESPN.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32720260/source-new-orleans-saints-deonte-harris-appealing-3-game-suspension-summer-dui-arrest

Steelers' defense welcomes Watt, Fitzpatrick back

The Pittsburgh Steelers' defense will be closer to full strength against the Cincinnati Bengals with the return of T.J. Watt and Minkah Fitzpatrick and possible return of Joe Haden.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32720262/pittsburgh-steelers-defense-moves-closer-full-strength-return-tj-watt-minkah-fitzpatrick

Everything that is happening in the Bryson DeChambeau vs. Brooks Koepka grudge match

Finally, Brooks Koepka and Bryson DeChambeau are taking their rivalry out on the course. We have you covered the entire way -- from the play to the commentary to the trash talk.

source https://www.espn.com/golf/story/_/id/32719827/everything-happening-bryson-dechambeau-vs-brooks-koepka-grudge-match

Browns activating RB Hunt, RT Conklin off IR

Browns running back Kareem Hunt and right tackle Jack Conklin are on track to make their returns against the Ravens on Sunday as both are being activated off injured reserve, coach Kevin Stefanski said.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32719868/cleveland-browns-activating-rb-kareem-hunt-rt-jack-conklin-injured-reserve

Rockets' Green (hamstring) out at least 1 week

Rockets rookie guard Jalen Green will miss at least one week because of a strained left hamstring, coach Stephen Silas told reporters Friday.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/32719828/houston-rockets-rookie-jalen-green-least-one-week-due-strained-left-hamstring

Louisiana Tech, coach Holtz agree to part ways

The Louisiana Tech Bulldogs and head coach Skip Holtz have mutually agreed to part ways after Saturday's regular-season finale against Rice.

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/32719647/louisiana-tech-coach-skip-holtz-part-ways-regular-season-finale-vs-rice

Italy, Portugal fall in same path after WC draw

European champions Italy face a possible World Cup qualifying playoff against Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal after being drawn in the same path.

source https://www.espn.com/soccer/fifa-world-cup-qualifying-uefa/story/4530998/european-world-cup-playoff-draw-italy-and-portugal-drawn-together

UK golfers WD amid S. Africa variant, flight ban

A batch of British and Irish golfers withdrew from the Joburg Open before Friday's second round after the U.K. government announced it was banning flights from South Africa to counter the spread of a new COVID-19 variant.

source https://www.espn.com/golf/story/_/id/32718527/british-golfers-quit-joburg-open-ahead-variant-flight-ban

Storming the field used to be 'reserved for something pretty special.' Not this season.

Standards appear lower for a once-rare tradition, and it's creating more work for field managers, irking coaches and causing safety concerns. And with rivalry week upon us, those numbers could easily grow.

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/32697906/you-see-their-eyes-why-rushing-field-rise-college-football

Violent dust storms and 135 miles: Inside the world's most impossible run

Kelaine Conochan ran through desert and darkness, from below sea level through three mountain ranges, in temperatures north of 100 degrees. She ate pickles and guzzled Coke. But this journey wasn't about toughness.

source https://www.espn.com/espn/story/_/id/32691727/badwater-ultramarathon-lost-found-135-miles-world-most-impossible-run

Carr channels Gruden advice in Raiders' OT win

Raiders quarterback Derek Carr said a piece of advice from former coach Jon Gruden helped him get back on track and lead Las Vegas to a win in Dallas.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32716824/derek-carr-channels-jon-gruden-advice-las-vegas-raiders-ot-win-dallas-cowboys

How the NFL playoff picture changed on Thanksgiving: Bills retake AFC East lead

The Raiders moved a step closer to the playoffs, while the Bills jumped into the AFC East's top seed. Here is the current postseason outlook after Thursday's trio of games.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32706419/nfl-playoff-picture-2021-standings-bracket-thanksgiving-games-plus-week-12-outlook

Lions RB Swift exits loss with shoulder sprain

Lions running back D'Andre Swift was ruled out of the Thanksgiving Day loss to the Bears after injuring his shoulder in the second quarter.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32714029/detroit-lions-rb-dandre-swift-ruled-thanksgiving-game-shoulder-injury

Sources: Cowboys WR Lamb (concussion) out

The Cowboys will be without their top two receivers in Thursday's game against the Raiders with CeeDee Lamb unavailable due to a concussion suffered Sunday against the Chiefs, according to multiple sources.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32713918/sources-dallas-cowboys-wr-ceedee-lamb-thursday-due-concussion

Howard ready to 'lose my voice' at OSU-Michigan

Michigan men's basketball coach Juwan Howard said he'll be at Saturday's game in Ann Arbor as the No. 5 Wolverines take on the No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes in a matchup with serious College Football Playoff implications.

source https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/32713893/michigan-basketball-coach-juwan-howard-ready-12th-man-wolverines-pivotal-football-matchup-ohio-state-buckeyes

Steelers activate Fitzpatrick from COVID-19 list

The Steelers have activated safety Minkah Fitzpatrick off the COVID-19 list and he's eligible to play Sunday against the Bengals.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32713499/pittsburgh-steelers-activate-safety-minkah-fitzpatrick-covid-19-list

George Kambosos Jr. ready to 'shock the world' in fight with Teofimo Lopez

George Kambosos Jr. said his focus has never wavered despite one of the most drama-filled journeys to a world title fight in recent memory.

source https://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/32701959/george-kambosos-jr-ready-shock-world-fight-teofimo-lopez

Thanksgiving's SEC-ACC rivalries -- and family feuds -- renewed one year later

This weekend last year without traditional games such as Clemson-South Carolina and Georgia-Georgia Tech just wasn't the same. Thankfully, the games -- and fans -- are back.

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/32698923/college-football-sec-acc-thanksgiving-rivalries-family-feuds-renewed-one-year-later

'Maybe we were brought here to bring a state together': Kiffin, Leach and the new era of the Egg Bowl

Ole Miss' Lane Kiffin and Mississippi State's Mike Leach have ushered in a new, friendlier tone to the Egg Bowl but the rivalry remains one of the fiercest in college football.

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/32706885/how-mike-leach-lane-kiffin-influencing-new-era-egg-bowl-rivalry

LeBron: Stewart 'graze' didn't warrant suspension

LeBron James returned from his one-game ban with a season-high 39 points in the Lakers' overtime win Wednesday night, but he wasn't happy to have been suspended for bloodying Pistons big man Isaiah Stewart in what James said was an accident.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/32711509/lebron-james-returns-suspension-says-blow-isaiah-stewart-definitely-accidental-1-game-ban-unwarranted

Wednesday, November 24, 2021

KD: 'Incredible' to pass childhood icon Iverson

Kevin Durant passed Allen Iverson -- whom he watched play at Georgetown while growing up in D.C. and emulated on his youth teams -- for 25th on the NBA's all-time scoring list during the Nets' win Wednesday night.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/32710812/kevin-durant-passes-allen-iverson-nba-career-scoring-list-all-surreal

Worth the wait: Wild win after traffic delays game

After their team bus was stuck in Thanksgiving Eve traffic in New York and New Jersey, the Minnesota Wild outlasted the Devils to post a shootout victory Wednesday, in a game that was delayed nearly a half hour because of the road team's late arrival.

source https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/32710793/weary-minnesota-wild-overcome-holiday-traffic-new-jersey-devils-snap-two-game-losing-streak

Mobley, Cunningham, Barnes and an NBA rookie class to be thankful for

This season's crop of NBA rookies is so strong, it has flipped conventional wisdom on its head in fantasy leagues. John Cregan explains, then details the five rookies he's most thankful for.

source https://www.espn.com/fantasy/basketball/story/_/id/32700017/fantasy-basketball-mobley-cunningham-barnes-nba-rookie-class-thankful-for

The day John Madden met the turducken

On a December day in 1996, a New Orleans butcher introduced a local-favorite dish to the legendary coach and broadcaster. Neither of their lives would be the same.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32698561/the-day-john-madden-met-turducken

The ultimate guide to the wildest moments ever in Rivalry Week

The best week of the college football season is upon us. From the Egg Bowl to The Game and everything in between, let's enjoy the strange, petty, delightful world of the season's best rivalries.

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/32673592/college-football-rivalry-week-ultimate-guide-best-historical-moments

Tannenbaum's QB rankings: Big weeks for Jalen Hurts, Taylor Heinicke

Here are Mike Tannenbaum's NFL QB ratings and what he saw on the field under center this week, including standout performances from a pair of NFC East quarterbacks.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32071373/nfl-quarterback-rankings-2021-how-all-32-teams-qbs-stack-weekly-big-takeaways

'They're stuck in neutral': Boston's unclear path back to NBA Finals contention

The Celtics' road back to elite status has been derailed by roster and front-office turnover. But there's hope in a resurgence led by Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/32701015/the-ever-tinkering-boston-celtics-rocky-road-back-nba-finals-contention

All the up and downs in Bryson DeChambeau's wild year

Well, 2021 has been far from boring for Bryson DeChambeau. He's had some good moments and some not-so-good moments. We look back at the best and worst.

source https://www.espn.com/golf/story/_/id/32672863/all-downs-bryson-dechambeau-wild-year

Benzema found guilty, fined in sex-tape trial

Karim Benzema has been handed a 12-month suspended prison sentence and a €75,000 fine for his role in the attempted blackmail of Mathieu Valbuena.

source https://www.espn.com/soccer/real-madrid-espreal_madrid/story/4503352/real-madrids-karim-benzema-handed-12-month-suspended-prison-in-sex-tape-trial

Tuesday, November 23, 2021

Sources: Matz, Cards agree to 4-year, $44M deal

Starting pitcher Steven Matz has agreed to a four-year, $44 million deal with the St. Louis Cardinals, pending a physical, sources familiar with the deal told ESPN's Jeff Passan on Tuesday night.

source https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/32702701/steven-matz-st-louis-cardinals-reach-agreement-four-year-44-million-deal-sources-say

Bears' Nagy: Report of imminent firing not true

Bears coach Matt Nagy said Tuesday that a report that he had been told he will be fired after Thursday's game against the Lions isn't accurate and that he is solely focused on his players and Detroit, not his job status.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32699272/chicago-bears-coach-matt-nagy-says-focused-detroit-lions-not-job-status

Kentucky DE Josh Paschal promotes dental hygiene in funniest NIL commercial of the year

"Don't be bringing these sugar-coated lies into my house." Kentucky football standout Josh Paschal isn't playing when it comes to dental hygiene in hilarious new commercial for a local pediatric dentist.

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/32699301/kentucky-de-josh-paschal-promotes-dental-hygiene-funniest-nil-commercial-year

Giants fire Garrett amid struggles on offense

Amid continuing struggles on offense, the New York Giants have fired Jason Garrett as offensive coordinator under coach Joe Judge, the team announced.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32699164/new-york-giants-fire-offensive-coordinator-jason-garrett-sources-say

S.C. women unanimous AP No. 1; Terps No. 2

South Carolina was the unanimous choice as the No. 1 team in the AP women's basketball poll after beating UConn, while Maryland jumped one spot past the Huskies to No. 2.

source https://www.espn.com/womens-college-basketball/story/_/id/32699092/south-carolina-gamecocks-women-basketball-team-unanimous-no-1-ap-poll-maryland-terrapins-no-2

Texans waive veteran RB Lindsay, source says

Veteran running back Phillip Lindsay has been waived by the Texans after struggling to find carries in the team's crowded backfield, a source confirmed to ESPN.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32698816/houston-texans-waive-veteran-rb-phillip-lindsay-source-says

Brooks vs. Bryson: The full history of the feud

It started with a complaint about slow play, then snowballed into something much larger. Don't remember all the details? That's OK -- there have been a lot. We give a rundown of how we got here.

source https://www.espn.com/golf/story/_/id/32202067/the-lapsed-fan-guide-brooks-koepka-vs-bryson-dechambeau-feud-how-got-here

NFL MVP, Super Bowl futures watch: Mahomes, Patriots move up

With 11 weeks of the NFL season in the books, who are the leading MVP candidates? Doug Kezirian breaks it down, looks at which teams are improving their Super Bowl chances and more.

source https://www.espn.com/chalk/story/_/id/32691509/nfl-mvp-super-bowl-futures-watch-patrick-mahomes-patriots-move-up

Overreactions: Finally Michigan's year? Cincy deprived again? Stay tuned

Jim Harbaugh's Wolverines end futility against Ohio State, the Bearcats still can't reach the top four, the coaching carousel is at top speed and other college football overreactions.

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/32692819/college-football-week-12-overreactions-michigan-year-cincy-deprived-again

How Carmelo Anthony went from No. 1 option to top reserve

The 19-year veteran went from the top scoring option in Denver and New York to eventually adapting his game as a complementary player off the bench in Los Angeles.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/32669506/inside-carmelo-anthony-19-year-scoring-evolution-here-doing-it

Maradona accused of rape by Cuban woman

A woman who had a relationship with the late Diego Maradona two decades ago told a news conference he raped her when she was a teenager.

source https://www.espn.com/soccer/argentina-arg/story/4527684/maradona-raped-me-as-teenagerstole-my-childhood-mavys-alvarez

Banchero: We all learned from incident, moved on

Duke's Paolo Banchero, speaking for the first time since he was charged with aiding and abetting impaired driving during a Nov. 14 incident that involved teammate Michael Savarino, said Monday the Blue Devils "all learned from it" and have "moved on."

source https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/32695816/duke-blue-devils-paolo-banchero-addressing-dwi-related-charge-says-all-learned-have-moved-on

Judge says coaches to blame for Giants' struggles

Following Monday night's blowout loss to the Buccaneers, Giants coach Joe Judge said it was fair to pin the blame on the coaching staff and not the players, explaining, "We've got to make sure we put them in position to have success."

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32695669/new-york-giants-joe-judge-points-finger-coaching-staff-loss-bucs-mum-jason-garrett-status-oc

Monday, November 22, 2021

Wrestler Rollins attacked by fan at NY WWE show

Wrestler Seth Rollins' appearance at a WWE event Monday night was anything but ordinary at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, where he was attacked by a 24-year-old fan.

source https://www.espn.com/wwe/story/_/id/32694858/fan-taken-custody-new-york-attack-wwe-wrestler-seth-rollins-barclays-center

Pedri matches Messi, wins Golden Boy award

Barcelona midfielder Pedri has been named the winner of the 2021 Golden Boy award, seeing off competition from Dortmund's Jude Bellingham.

source https://www.espn.com/soccer/barcelona-espbarcelona/story/4527201/golden-boy-award-pedri-becomes-first-barcelona-player-since-messi-to-win-prize

1-vs-2 matchup delays AP women's hoops poll

The release of The Associated Press women's Top 25 basketball poll will be delayed one day so voters can assess Monday's showdown between No. 1 South Carolina and No. 2 UConn -- only the second time since the poll began in 1976 that it has been delayed.

source https://www.espn.com/womens-college-basketball/story/_/id/32685523/matchup-no-1-south-carolina-no-2-uconn-delays-ap-women-basketball-poll-day

The state of Florida football: What's gone wrong and how it can be fixed

Dan Mullen is out and the future is uncertain in Gainesville. But Florida remains a top job for the right coach. Can the Gators get things turned around?

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/32687505/the-state-florida-gators-football-gone-wrong-how-fixed

Who should Conor McGregor fight next?

Conor McGregor has been angling for a number of different fights, but who should be his next opponent when he returns from injury?

source https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/32677768/ufc-conor-mcgregor-fight-next

Iman Shumpert puts sports world on notice with historic 'Dancing with the Stars' run

Iman Shumpert isn't your average "Dancing with the Stars" finalist, he's the first ex-NBA player to compete in the show's finale in 30 seasons. Here's how a viral "Horror Night" routine, LeBron tribute and advice from Teyana Taylor helped him get here.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/32654293/iman-shumpert-puts-sports-world-notice-historic-dancing-stars-run

Inside Troy Terry's breakout season -- and what comes next

The young Ducks forward has leveled up this season, and his hot scoring streak has catapulted his club near the top of the Pacific Division.

source https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/32685380/inside-troy-terry-breakout-season-ducks-comes-next

WTA: Peng Shuai call does not alleviate concerns

Chinese tennis star Peng Shuai's video call with the president of the International Olympic Committee does not alleviate concern about her well-being, the WTA said on Monday.

source https://www.espn.com/tennis/story/_/id/32688106/wta-says-peng-shuai-call-olympic-officials-not-enough

Warriors' Green: Found 'love for the game' again

After two underwhelming seasons, Warriors forward Draymond Green says he has found "love and joy for the game" again and credits his children for fueling his desire to be one of the best players in the NBA again.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/32687856/warriors-draymond-green-says-rediscovered-love-game-wants-dpoy-again

Jefferson channels Moss with 169-yard, 2-TD day

Justin Jefferson wore a Randy Moss T-shirt during warmups and proceeded to channel the Vikings legend with a huge game against Green Bay that included over 100 receiving yards in the first quarter and later two touchdowns in a thrilling Minnesota victory.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32686103/just-trying-legend-vikings-justin-jefferson-channels-randy-moss-huge-game-rival-packers

Sunday, November 21, 2021

Frustrated Carroll leaves presser, later returns

Pete Carroll left his news conference, then later returned -- an odd scene on a disappointing day for a Seahawks team that lost to the Cards, 23-13. "I'm struggling to do a good job of coaching when you're getting your butt kicked week-in and week-out."

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32687338/pete-carroll-seattle-seahawks-searching-answers-loss-arizona-cardinals-adds-woes

Sources: Kings fire coach Walton after 6-11 start

The Kings, who have lost seven of eight games and are 6-11 this season, fired coach Luke Walton on Sunday, sources told ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/32682460/sources-sacramento-kings-fire-coach-luke-walton-6-11-start

IOC: Peng Shuai told us she is safe and well

Chinese tennis player Peng Shuai took part in a 30-minute video call from Beijing with IOC officials and told them she was safe and well, the Olympic body said.

source https://www.espn.com/olympics/story/_/id/32682203/ioc-says-peng-shuai-told-olympic-officials-safe

Zverev tops Medvedev for 2nd ATP Finals title

Alexander Zverev won his second title at the ATP Finals on Sunday, beating Daniil Medvedev 6-4, 6-4 a day after eliminating Novak Djokovic in three sets.

source https://www.espn.com/tennis/story/_/id/32682177/alexander-zverev-tops-daniil-medvedev-win-second-atp-finals-title

'Making progress': Video shows Tiger hitting balls

Tiger Woods posted video of himself hitting balls for the first time since his February car crash that caused several injuries to his right leg and foot.

source https://www.espn.com/golf/story/_/id/32681693/tiger-woods-posts-video-showing-hitting-golf-balls-including-caption-making-progress

Sources: Signs point to Cards starting QB McCoy

The Arizona Cardinals are not expected to make a final decision about their starting quarterback until pre-game warmups Sunday, but signs point to Colt McCoy making his third straight start in place of the injured Kyler Murray, sources tell ESPN.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32677553/arizona-cardinals-eye-game-call-kyler-murray-signs-point-colt-mccoy-starting-qb-sources-say

Solskjaer out as Manchester United manager

Manchester United announced that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has left the club amid the expectation that he would be fired after Saturday's loss to Watford.

source https://www.espn.com/soccer/manchester-united-engman_utd/story/4227737/ole-gunnar-solskjaer-leaves-manchester-united-after-dismal-watford-defeat

Crawford finishes Porter in 10th to retain crown

In a competitive bout, Terence Crawford floored Shawn Porter twice in Round 10 and scored a TKO victory to retain his welterweight crown Saturday.

source https://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/32678649/terence-crawford-defeats-shawn-porter-10th-round-tko-retain-welterweight-title

Boyle to start amid Lions' QB flux, sources say

Lions quarterback Tim Boyle will make his first NFL start Sunday against the Browns as Jared Goff continues to recover from an oblique injury, sources tell ESPN.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32677828/tim-boyle-start-sunday-play-thanksgiving-game-amid-detroit-lions-qb-flux-sources-say

Stroud fuels Heisman case in OSU statement win

Quarterback C.J. Stroud solidified himself as a Heisman Trophy front-runner and No. 4 Ohio State erased any doubts that it belongs in the playoff conversation with an emphatic 56-7 win over No. 7 Michigan State on Saturday.

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/32674346/cj-stroud-throws-432-yards-6-tds-ohio-state-makes-statement-56-7-rout-michigan-state

Lenoir-Rhyne University linebacker shot, killed

Omari Alexander, a sophomore linebacker for Lenoir-Rhyne University, was killed in Hickory, North Carolina, the school announced Saturday.

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/32674793/lenoir-rhyne-university-linebacker-omari-alexander-killed-hickory-north-carolina

Chiefs activate RB Edwards-Helaire off injured list

Kansas City Chiefs running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire, who hasn't played since injuring his knee in a Week 5 loss to the Buffalo Bills, was activated Saturday, and will play Sunday vs. the Dallas Cowboys.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32674384/kansas-city-chiefs-rb-clyde-edwards-helaire-activated-play-vs-dallas-cowboys

Eagles' Sanders off IR, expected to play vs. N.O.

Philadelphia Eagles running back Miles Sanders has been activated off injured reserve after missing three games with an ankle injury. He is expected to play Sunday against the New Orleans Saints, a source told ESPN's Adam Schefter.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32674190/philadelphia-eagles-activating-running-back-miles-sanders-injured-reserve-source-says