{{ timeAgo(‘2022-10-05 11:39:58 -0500’) }} football Edit
Adam Gorney
• Rivals.com
National Recruiting Director
First, Leonard Ah You is going to focus on his senior season. Then the recruiting process with official visits and a decision in the coming months will happen.“I’m just focused on the season,” Ah Y…
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Covered Packers for Green Bay Press-Gazette from 1997-2013
Two-time Wisconsin Sportswriter of the Year as selected by the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association
Jordan Raanan
AJ DILLON FIGURED the encounter with a stranger at Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport would be like any other with a Green Bay Packers fan who asked to pose for a picture.
They’d throw an arm over each other’s shoulders and smile like they were long-lost pals while they either snapped a selfie or had someone else take it.
Not this guy.
“He gets down on his knees and wraps his arms around my quads,” the Packers’ running back recalled. “This is a grown man, picture of his kids on his phone, married and [says to his] his wife, ‘Hey, take this picture of me with my arms wrapped around his quads,’ and thought it was the funniest thing.
“I didn’t know he was doing all that. I just thought I was getting ready for a picture, and before I knew it, he was down there.”
Even Saquon Barkley, who has the thighs to rival Dillon’s, had never experienced anything quite like that.
“That is where the line draws for me,” the New York Giants‘ running back said. “I might pick up the sleeve a little bit and give it a flex for the picture. I’ve done that a couple times. I haven’t gotten anyone to drop down to their knee and wrap my leg and take a picture with it. That’s a little too far.”
Coincidentally, it was at an airport when Barkley first recognized people fixating on his legs.
“This is when I first realized it: I was in Newark airport, and I was walking to get my bags, and I had short shorts on, people were just looking at me, and I’m like ‘What the heck?’” Barkley said. “I had a hoodie on, and I’m like, ‘What’s everyone staring at?’ And people were coming up and saying, like, ‘You’ve got some really nice legs.’ I think when it first started out, I was like, I don’t know why — it was males, females, everybody — and I’m just so caught off guard by it.”
Such is life in public for the two running backs with perhaps the most muscular lower bodies in football.
Two years after tearing the ACL in his right knee, Barkley has rebuilt his body into the foundation of his success. With the added motivation of a contract year, he leads the NFL with 463 rushing yards through four weeks. His 252 yards after contact is second only to Cleveland’s Nick Chubb, and only 81 fewer than he had all of last season as he rebuilt his strength and confidence.
Barkley ranks 36th in the NFL in yards after contact since the start of the 2020 season, despite missing 18 games with injuries. Dillon, who combines with Aaron Jones to give the Packers one of the most lethal 1-2 punches in football, ranks seventh.
While Jones leads the team and ranks seventh in the NFL in rushing yards, it was Dillon who got the call on the final drive of overtime in Sunday’s win over the New England Patriots. Coach Matt LaFleur ran Dillon six times on that drive to help move the Packers into position for the game-winning field goal.
Barkley and Dillon will share the same field on Sunday when the Giants (3-1) and Packers (3-1) play in London’s Tottenham Hotspur Stadium (9:30 a.m. ET, NFL Network), and before that, they shared stories of their legs, people’s reactions to them and debated who was “The Quad King” during a joint Zoom interview with ESPN.
BARKLEY’S QUADS WERE a thing long before Dillon was even on the NFL radar. When ESPN The Magazine featured Barkley in the 2018 version of The Body Issue, Dillon was a sophomore at Boston College.
“I never really was part of the obsessive quad bandwagon until I think some of my teammates at BC were joking around,” Dillon told Barkley. “I think after that you did the ESPN Body Issue and all my boys kept tagging me, like man, but I’m like, I’m not going to be talking and comparing my legs to this dude.”
If Dillon’s quads weren’t an instant sensation in college, they were in the NFL.
A photo from Day 1 of training camp during his rookie season was just the beginning of the phenomenon.
“Training camp is where everybody kinda figured about the legs, and then people started tagging [Barkley] in stuff,” Dillon said. “And I was like, ‘Hey, you never know, I might have him beat.’”
Barkley knew coming in if it were sheer size that would determine the title of “The Quad King,” he would be in trouble. Dillon reported that he checks in at 6-foot-1, 250 pounds; Barkley, a shredded 6-foot, 227 with body fat of less than 6%.
Barkley, whose 133 rushing yards over expectation this season is second in the NFL, was stunned when Dillon guessed Barkley’s quads would measure at well over 30 inches. Hey, he hasn’t run through defenders for 290 total yards this season by accident.
“Oh wow,” said Barkley, who knew he would measure in at a solid 29 inches.
That is when Dillon took out the kind of measuring tape a tailor would use to fit a suit. Of course, he had to flex to reach max girth. These are uber-competitive NFL running backs. They compete at even the most innocuous of tasks.
“We’ve got 34 [inches],” Dillon said. “But it might be more like 33 because I’ve got sweats on.”
At that point, Barkley, riding in the backseat of a car to New York City, simply conceded.
“Not 34,” he said. “You’ve got me beat.”
The second-overall pick in 2018 wondered how the great Earl Campbell would compare. Campbell’s Hall of Fame bio notes he had 36-inch thighs. He’s got all of these modern-day backs beat.
Barkley’s advantage may be strength per inch. He estimated his max squat at 700 pounds while Dillon said 675. (Note: They had to do it simultaneously in order not to try and one-up the other.)
Neither is anything to scoff at. Actually, quite the opposite.
WHILE BOTH HAVE nicknames related to their quads — former Giants teammate Odell Beckham Jr. came up with “SaQuads” for Barkley and Dillon has used both “Quadzilla and “The Quadfather” — their running styles are different. Dillon runs with power between the tackles, while Barkley seemingly glides through open spaces and makes defenders miss.
Barkley has the edge in the speed department; his 4.40 40-yard dash time bettered Dillon’s 4.51 coming out of college. Barkley is tied for second in the NFL with four runs of 20-plus yards this season.
“My biggest question is, like, ‘Yeah, he’s got big legs, but how do they move so fast?’” Dillon said. “Mine don’t necessarily move that fast. I’ve got the big ones, but I use mine more for running through people.”
It’s still quite a strange phenomenon to Barkley. He doesn’t embrace the fascination with his legs.
“I don’t know why, for some reason in college, having big legs wasn’t a thing. It wasn’t like my legs got bigger when I got to the NFL or AJ’s legs got bigger when he got to the NFL, but it’s like, once you get on the NFL scene, everyone likes talking about the size of your legs,” Barkley said.
“People talked more about my calves in college, and then I got to the NFL, Odell kinda made a joke calling me ‘SaQuads,’ and everyone was like, ‘He’s got huge quads, he’s got big legs.’ Now, whoever’s new, it was Najee [Harris] or it was AJ — I forget how the order went — but, like, every year someone new is like, ‘Who’s got the best quads, who’s got the biggest quads in the NFL?’
“I don’t know why. I don’t really get people’s obsession with it.”
Not that Barkley tries to hide them. He still flaunts them by wearing the short shorts he says are in style. The quads protrude out of them.
As do Dillon’s.
“If you got ’em,” Dillon said. “You’ve got to show ’em.”
Just like in previous seasons, Season 6 of Dana White’s Contender Series brought in MMA prospects from around the world, giving them a chance to make a name for themselves in UFC.
After 43 of the competitors earned contracts, the most ever in a season, there are plenty of new names for fans to learn. But who stood out among the crowd? Who are the fighters whom fans should be keeping up with?
Could any of the fighters from this season be the next Taila Santos or Alex Perez — the only two DWCS alums who have fought for a UFC title? Could some 2022 signees soon find themselves fighting for a spot on ESPN’s divisional rankings, such as Marina Rodriguez?
Brett Okamoto and Marc Raimondi take a look at the top UFC newcomers from Season 6.
Weight class: Middleweight Record: 3-0
What else is there to say about Nickal at this point? After two wins in a combined 114 seconds during this season of Dana White’s Contender Series, Nickal looks like the best prospect to ever earn a contract on the show — and one of the best prospects that any of us have seen in MMA in a long time, period. Nickal is a three-time NCAA Division I national champion out of Penn State University and trains at one of the world’s best gyms, American Top Team, which almost makes things unfair. Nickal’s wrestling is among the best in the UFC, if not the best. And he was able to show his power when knocked down Donovan Beard with a punch last week on Contender Series before submitting him. This guy is a real problem.
The question now for UFC matchmakers is how quickly do they want to push him. Nickal is already booked against Jamie Pickett at UFC 282 on Dec. 10 in Las Vegas and he is projected to be a heavy favorite. If Nickal gets by Pickett, and he should, what does the UFC do with him? If it’s a spectacular finish, there could be some support toward giving him a top-15 contender next. Nickal is already calling out stars such as Khamzat Chimaev. But the truth is, there’s no reason to rush. Nickal is just 3-0 in MMA and 26 years old. He just might be too darned great for the UFC to hold him back very long. — Raimondi
Weight class: Bantamweight Record: 6-0
Is Rosas Jr. ready to make an immediate impact in the UFC? As the youngest fighter ever to earn a contract on Contender Series (and if he fights in the first half of next year, the youngest fighter in UFC history), frankly, chances are against that, right? Rosas Jr. says he’s already looking at the best bantamweights in the world and sees holes in their games. You’ve got to love that youthful confidence and optimism, but there are likely going to be some growing pains at some point — just like there have been with other young talents from Contender Series (think Chase Hooper, Maycee Barber and Edmen Shahbazyan).
But, that said, if you don’t expect Rosas Jr. to be perfect right out of the gate, he has a great chance to impress. He’s a well-rounded risk taker with very real talent on the ground and a unique ability to blend different aspects of his game together far better than any 17-year-old should. He’s also incredibly physical for his age. There’s always a chance he runs into some “man strength” issues down the road with a more experienced opponent, but so far it doesn’t look like a huge concern.
Is this all happening too soon for Rosas Jr.? Maybe. But maybe not. His potential is definitely one of the top things to watch coming out of the season. — Okamoto
Weight class: Middleweight Record: 10-2
UFC president Dana White might have christened Pyfer with a new catchphrase — “Be Joe Pyfer” — but he did more for the Pennsylvania native. After Pyfer became the first fighter to earn a UFC contract on this season of Contender Series back in July, he told White that he was on the verge of becoming homeless. White took money out of his own pocket to help out, which Pyfer later said amounted to a year’s worth of rent. Pyfer obviously didn’t take any of that for granted. He made his full-fledged UFC debut on Sept. 17 and knocked out Alen Amedovski with a right hand.
The catchphrase stemmed from a lack of action on Week 1 of Contender Series, the show on which Pyfer appeared. Pyfer was the only one to earn a finish on the July 26 episode. So White told interviewer Laura Sanko that if fighters want to get contracts this season, they needed to be better — they needed to “be Joe Pyfer.” He might not have gotten the hype of a Nickal or a Rosas Jr. this season, but Pyfer looks like he’s going to be a factor in the UFC middleweight division. He packs some punch into a 6-foot-2 frame and has recorded a finish in nine of his 10 pro wins. It will be interesting to see how the man nicknamed “Bodybagz” does as the level of competition increases. — Raimondi
Weight class: Lightweight Record: 16-1
Rebecki hasn’t even made his UFC debut yet, but he’s already got a nickname from White, who referred to him as Re-Beast-i after his first-round submission finish on Week 6. Obviously, there were a lot of contracts handed out in the 2022 season, and different athletes stood out for a variety of reasons. Rebecki probably isn’t going to be a guy who jumps on a rocket ship up the 155-pound rankings. The Polish fighter speaks English and has good energy on the mic, but don’t expect him to kick down the door with any viral trash talk.
While he’s definitely a finisher, as illustrated by his 87.5% finishing rate, his style is pretty straightforward. He’s a strong wrestler with fantastic submissions, and he has power in his hands. While I think it will take a little bit of time for Rebecki to truly grasp people’s attention, the reason he’s one of my picks as a fighter to watch is that I believe he’s very UFC-ready. Rebecki has been a pro since 2014, and a lightweight champion in Europe since 2018. He’s a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, with ADCC-level experience in grappling contests. He’s legit and more than capable of finishing UFC-caliber opponents. — Okamoto
ARLINGTON, Texas — As he walked through a concourse in the outfield at Globe Life Field, high-fiving with fans and surrounded by a sea of cameras, it was almost as if Cory Youmans had hit a huge home run.
Instead, he hit the jackpot.
Youmans made the catch of a lifetime Tuesday night, snagging the ball New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge launched for his American League-record 62nd homer.
The historic souvenir came sailing into the front row of section 31 in left field, a drive Judge hit to lead off the second game of a day-night doubleheader against the Texas Rangers. Youmans snared it on the fly.
Youmans, from Dallas, works in the financial world and there’s no telling yet what the ball could be worth. With security personnel around him as he took the ball to be authenticated, he was asked what he planned to do with the prize.
“Good question. I haven’t thought about it,” he said.
After the Yankees lost 3-2, Judge said he didn’t have possession of the home-run ball.
“I don’t know where it’s at,” he said. “We’ll see what happens with that. It would be great to get it back, but that’s a souvenir for a fan. He made a great catch out there, and they’ve got every right to it.”
Soon after a local TV station posted a brief interview with Youmans in a walkway, Bri Amaranthus tweeted: “THIS IS MY HUSBAND.”
Amaranthus works in local media and is an alum of ABC’s “The Bachelor.”
Youmans was among the crowd of 38,832, the largest to watch a baseball game at the 3-year-old ballpark.
Many fans came clad in Yankees caps, T-shirts and pinstripe jerseys.
Some came to watch Judge make history. Some came just for the history. Some traveled a long way.
The latter two categories included Jimmy Bennicaso of Norwalk, Connecticut.
“I’m a Met fan, actually,” Bennicaso confessed. “Cowboy and Met fan — a rough combo.”
Bennicaso was home in Connecticut on Monday night having watched Judge fail to homer in the first of four games against the Rangers in three days. He ran an idea past his girlfriend — what if he headed to Texas to take in Judge’s chase in person?
“She said, ‘Yeah, go for it,’” he said.
Bennicaso caught a morning flight to Texas. Being self-employed in real estate investments helped, he said.
Bennicaso stationed himself in the lower deck of the right-field stands in hopes of grabbing an opposite-field homer, certainly a possibility given Judge’s spray chart.
Instead, Judge pulled a home run that broke the AL record set by Roger Maris in 1961.
Empty-handed, Bennicaso planned to return home Wednesday morning.
“It was worth it,” he said. “I gave it my best shot.”
———
More AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB and https://twitter.com/AP—Sports
When a major program loses a key recruit, Rivals.com takes a look at how big of a blow it is to the respective school, analyzing it from a local and national level. To quantify the “sting” of each decommitment, we assign a score from one to 10, with one being no big deal and 10 being a catastrophic hit.
Shortly after his official visit to Texas this summer, Jonah Wilson committed to the Longhorns.
It might have been a long time coming since the four-star receiver from Houston Dekaney had a longstanding relationship with position coach Brennan Marion, Texas was always considered one of his favorites and so his pledge was not a surprise.
Texas has also loaded up at the skill positions, from five-star quarterback Arch Manning to elite receivers Ryan Niblett and Johntay Cook. But the Longhorns could not keep Wilson locked in as the four-star backed off his pledge in recent days.
Texas A&M, Ohio State, Arkansas, LSU and Baylor were the other main contenders in Wilson’s recruitment the first time around, and many should be heavily involved again.
From the football side to the academics, everything seemed to make sense for Wilson in Austin, but it was not to be as the offensive standout is back on the market.
*****
LOCAL REACTION
Recruiting wide receivers is never going to be a huge concern under Steve Sarkisian, but this one does sting Texas a bit because Wilson has been off to a fantastic start to his senior season. He’s a big receiver that would have been a perfect complement to the Longhorns’ other receiver commitments in Cook and Niblett. Texas also doesn’t have a lot of available options to replace him. – Jason Suchomel, Orangebloods.com
Wilson is having a very strong senior season, which only reinforces that he’s one of the best receivers in the state of Texas and would have been a fantastic addition to the Texas recruiting class. But the Longhorns already have two very talented receivers in Cook and Niblett committed and Sarkisian could be going after some others. Wilson would have been a great addition and it will especially hurt if the four-star ends up at Texas A&M, but this isn’t a back-breaker of a decommitment for the Longhorns. – Adam Gorney, Rivals national recruiting director
Johnson appeared on the “Parkins & Spiegel Show” on 670 The Score, a Chicago-based radio station, where he placed a Green Bay Packers cheesehead, the symbol of his bitter rival’s fan base, on himself after betting Canadian soccer player Lauren Sesselmann that his Bears would beat them in Week 2.
Aaron Rodgers had other things in mind as the Packers beat them, 27-10, with the future Hall of Fame quarterback throwing for two touchdowns and 234 yards.
Lauren Sesselmann is shown at Jackie Robinson Stadium on July 17, 2022, in Los Angeles. (Unique Nicole/Getty Images)
“At the time, I wasn’t too concerned,” Johnson said on the show. “I felt really good going into the game, and then towards the end, this started coming into my head. I had some last-second regrets. It is what it is. I’m going to bet on me and the guys any day.”
“I am a man of honor,” he continued. “I said if I lost, I would do it, and I’m doing it two weeks later.”
Johnson shamefully put it on his head, and though he didn’t start melting, he said it wasn’t too pleasant to wear.
“This is terrible,” he said. “Nothing about this damn hat is pleasing.”
Bears fans might be screaming expletives when they see it, but Johnson’s heart was in the right place when he made the pact with Sesselmann. He believes in his Bears, and that ride-or-die mentality, unfortunately for him, led to this situation.
Jaylon Johnson of the Chicago Bears celebrates after defeating the San Francisco 49ers at Soldier Field on Sept. 11, 2022, in Chicago. (Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
Johnson, a second-round pick by the Bears in the 2020 NFL Draft, hasn’t been able to play in the last two games as he’s dealing with a hamstring injury.
But in the two games he has played, Johnson forced a fumble and collected four tackles, per Pro Football Reference.
Johnson collected his first career interception last season, while totaling nine passes defended with 46 combined tackles.
Jaylon Johnson of the Chicago Bears in action against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Nov. 8, 2021, at then-Heinz Field in Pittsburgh. (Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)
Maybe the only way that Bears fans will forgive him for wearing the cheesehead is getting back at the Packers during their next NFC North meeting on Dec. 4 at Soldier Field in Chicago.
Scott Thompson is a sports writer for Fox News Digital.
Nearly one year to the day that unranked Texas A&M knocked off then-No. 1 Alabama in College Station, Texas, Saban is reminding everyone of what he said before last year’s matchup against the Aggies.
Head coach Nick Saban, of the Alabama Crimson Tide, and head coach Jimbo Fisher, of the Texas A&M Aggies, meet before the game at Kyle Field on Oct. 9, 2021 in College Station, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images)
“I was talking about rat poison last year we played this game nobody would listen, players wouldn’t listen, y’all didn’t listen,” Saban said at his Monday press conference.
“They had lost the week before, we were big favorites,” Saban continued. “It was like, no big deal, just show up for this game, go play the next game. I don’t get affected by it because I don’t listen to you all. I really don’t have any interest in what anybody thinks about any of this stuff. I do have an interest in how it affects and impacts the players on our team. I think it does.
Alabama coach Nick Saban leads his team onto the field for the game between the Arkansas Razorbacks and the Alabama Crimson Tide on Oct. 1, 2022 at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium in Fayetteville, Arkansas. (John Bunch/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
“And I think they have to show maturity in how they manage it and know that external opinion, external noise, whatever you want to call it – rat poison – whatever it is. Absolutely has nothing to do with the outcome of the game.”
Saban has been preaching the importance of ignoring the odds and headlines all season, warning fans before Alabama’s Week 2 game against Texas that any team can be beaten on any given day in college football.
“Everybody has heard that we’re 20-point favorites in this game,” Saban said on his weekly radio spot leading up to the game at Texas. “And last time we were 20-point favorites, and we went to Texas, we got our a– kicked.”
“What you did last week, that’s not going to help you what you did this week, and every team we play if they beat us, that’s like the resurrection game,” Saban continued. “I mean that resurrects their whole program.”
Saban’s team is once again the No. 1 team in the nation, jumping Georgia in the Week 6 AP Top 25 rankings.
Alabama is hoping to have reigning Heisman winner Bryce Young under center against Texas A&M, who Saban said is “day-to-day” after injuring his shoulder in a Week 5 win over Arkansas.
Tom Brady went from hard-nosed competitor to doting dad in the latest episode of his podcast on Monday when he talked about watching his high school freshman son play football.
Brady appeared in the weekly “Let’s Go!” podcast with legendary sportscaster Jim Gray he really enjoys watching his children participate in youth sports. He singled out his son Jack, whom he co-parents with his ex, Bridget Moynahan.
Tom Brady was not happy with his first half performance in his game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday. (Chris Graythen/Getty Images)
Brady said he believes youth sports can teach kids a plethora of things and maintained he wasn’t one of those crazy people on the sidelines yelling at coaches and referees.
“One of the great highlights in my life is watching him play and him grow and him develop and my kids in general too. I love watching him kind of dig deep. Especially team sports, I love team sports because it forces you to get along with other people. It forces you to take responsibility and accountability for your actions. It teaches you discipline. It teaches you respect,” the Tampa Bay Buccaneers star said.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Quarterback Tom Brady (12) takes the field prior to a game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Oct. 2, 2022, at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, FL. (Roy K. Miller/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
“He’s playing high school football now. I could never imagine he’d be in high school and I could never imagine him playing football. Getting out there and watching him play has been so much fun for me. And I don’t give a s— how well he does. I just love watching him and seeing him enjoy it with his friends. … It’s really a treat, as all parents know, watching your kids play.”
Brady said his son plays quarterback and safety for his high school, and he’s not really keen on taking things too seriously, especially with his child being so young.
“I just want the kids to have fun. It’s really great as a parent to see your kids joyful. That’s what we all hope for our kids. You want to provide them the experience to grow and to grow into their adolescence and to deal with adversities to wins and losses in life,” he added.
Tom Brady #12 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers reacts before the game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Raymond James Stadium on October 02, 2022 in Tampa, Florida. (Douglas P. DeFelice/Getty Images)
“Not just sports, but on a test and with their friendships. That’s the most important thing I see — dealing with their friends, dealing with accountability, responsibility and learning to overcome challenges, dealing with failures and dealing with successes. All those things youth sports teaches us all.”
Ryan Gaydos is the sports editor for Fox News Digital.
The Wisconsin Badgers fired football coach Paul Chryst after starting the season 2-3.
Athletic director Chris McIntosh released a statement explaining the move that will make defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard interim head coach.
“After a heartfelt and authentic conversation with Coach Chryst about what is in the long-term best interest of our football program, I have concluded that now is the time for a change in leadership,” McIntosh said. “Paul is a man of integrity who loves his players. I have great respect and admiration for Paul and the legacy of him and his family at the University of Wisconsin.”
Head coach Paul Chryst of the Wisconsin Badgers during the game against the New Mexico Aggies at Camp Randall Stadium on September 17, 2022 in Madison, Wisconsin. (John Fisher/Getty Images)
This surprise move comes after the Badgers were dominated by Illinois on Saturday, losing 34-10 on their home turf. But that isn’t the only blowout this season, as Ohio State beat them 52-21 in their first Big Ten game of the year in the previous week.
Moving forward, McIntosh is sure Leonhard can make things better for Wisconsin’s program.
“I also have confidence in Jim Leonhard to guide the program for the remainder of the season,” McIntosh said. “There is still a lot of season left to play and I know Jim will do a great job while the program is under his leadership.”
Head coach Paul Chryst of the Wisconsin Badgers looks on during the game against the Washington State Cougars at Camp Randall Stadium on September 10, 2022 in Madison, Wisconsin. (John Fisher/Getty Images)
Chryst being fired leaves his contract situation up for questioning, as the university still owes him $16.4 million if there was no cause for the firing, ESPN reported. A negotiation could happen to get that number down on the contract that ran through 2026.
Chryst spent seven seasons as head coach for the Badgers, earning himself a 67-26 record, with at least 10 games won four of his first five seasons. He has taken home bowl wins as well, collecting Cotton Bowl and Orange Bowl victories.
Leonhard, a former defensive back for the Badgers, takes over with Northwestern next on the schedule as his first game leading the team.
Head coach Paul Chryst of the Wisconsin Badgers before the game against the Illinois State Redbirds at Camp Randall Stadium on September 03, 2022 in Madison, Wisconsin. (Josh Fisher/Getty Images)
“I appreciate Chris McIntosh placing his trust in me to lead our team,” Leonhard said. “My focus right now is on our players and moving forward with preparing them for our game on Saturday at Northwestern.”
Scott Thompson is a sports writer for Fox News Digital.
The Jayhawks on Sunday were back in the Associated Press Top 25 college football rankings after picking up a victory over Iowa State to move to 5-0 on the season and 2-0 in the conference.
Kansas hadn’t been in the rankings since Oct. 18, 2009, when Mark Mangino was the head coach. The team finished with as many wins as they have currently (5-7). Kansas is on pace for the first winning season since 2008. Current head coach Lane Leipold is the fifth head coach since 2010.
Kansas running back Daniel Hishaw Jr. (20) celebrates with teammate offensive lineman Mike Novitsky (50) after scoring a touchdown against Iowa State during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 1, 2022, in Lawrence, Kan. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)
Kansas’ drought was the longest for a current Power Five conference team. They were ranked 19th.
Elsewhere, Alabama took back the No. 1 ranking from Georgia, even after Bryce Young suffered an injury, and the Crimson Tide had a devil of a time holding off Arkansas. Georgia had a close win over Missouri, while No. 3 Ohio State had an easy win over Rutgers.
Alabama received 25 first-place votes and 1,523 points – just two more than Georgia, who received 28 first-place votes. It’s the first time a team had the most first-place votes but wasn’t ranked No. 1, since Alabama in November 2019.
Alabama quarterback Bryce Young (9) drops back to pass against Arkansas during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 1, 2022, in Fayetteville, Ark. (AP Photo/Michael Woods)
Syracuse running back Sean Tucker (34) is tackled by Virginia linebacker Chico Bennett Jr. (15) during the first half of an NCAA college football game Friday, Sept. 23, 2022, in Syracuse, N.Y. (AP Photo/Adrian Kraus)
The defending Super Bowl champion Rams’ record dropped to the .500 mark following Monday night’s 24-9 loss to the 49ers.
The trend of the Rams’ offense struggling against the Kyle Shanahan-led 49ers in regular season matchups continued Monday. The offense did not score a touchdown, which has not happened since a Week 17 contest against the Cardinals last season.
Matthew Stafford had a night to forget.
“You know, there were some plays that we can execute better, whether it’s throwing and catching or, just assignment-wise, so a lot to clean up,” he said.
Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) passes against the San Francisco 49ers during the first half of a game in Santa Clara, Calif., Monday, Oct. 3, 2022. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez)
LA did make it into the red zone three times during long drives of at least 10 plays, but only came away with three field goals.
For his part, Stafford did not play well inside the 20-yard line. He only completed one pass in the red zone all night and finished with a 39.6 passer rating.
One of the biggest mistakes Stafford made was throwing a pick-six, which marked the 28th of his career. He is now tied with Hall of Fame quarterback Joe Namath for third-most by a player since at least 1950. Brett Favre is the all-time pick-six leader with 32.
Rams coach Sean McVay said his offense hurt itself most of the game.
“The story of the night from an offensive perspective was self-inflicted wounds. Just above-the-neck errors, where we’re not doing the things that we’re capable of, and I expect us to be better than that,” McVay told reporters.
Injuries along the offensive line continue to plague the Rams. Stafford faced consistent pressure from defenders all game, which had an effect on the offensive production.
Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford, left, is sacked by San Francisco 49ers defensive tackle Hassan Ridgeway during the second half of a game in Santa Clara, Calif., Monday, Oct. 3, 2022. (AP Photo/Jed Jacobsohn)
Another factor working against the Rams is the lack of production from wide receivers not named Cooper Kupp. The All-Pro Kupp had another stellar performance with 14 catches for 122 yards, but no other Rams’ receiver hauled in more than two catches.
The run game was also mostly nonexistent for the Rams throughout the night.
Kupp acknowledged the team struggled, but the issues can be corrected.
“Without a doubt, it’s fixable,” he said. “I mean, we’ll look at the film. Obviously, these kinds of games hurt. It’s a gut punch. You walk off that field and don’t accomplish what you have worked so hard to accomplish,” Kupp said.
San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle, middle, cannot catch a pass in bounds during the second half of a game against the Los Angeles Rams in Santa Clara, Calif., Monday, Oct. 3, 2022. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez)
Since taking the reins as the Rams’ head coach in 2017, Sean McVay has mostly experienced success offensively. The 36-year-old coach is the youngest to win a Super Bowl, and he is widely viewed as an offensive guru. His scheme and system helped elevate former Rams QB Jared Goff to a Super Bowl appearance against the New England Patriots.
Now McVay will have to go back to the drawing board to get better production from his one-time Pro-Bowl quarterback Matthew Stafford and the offensive unit as a whole.
Chantz Martin is a sports writer for Fox News Digital.
Tom Brady was among NFL players who reacted to the scary head injury suffered by Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa in Thursday night’s game against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Brady said on the “Let’s Go!” podcast Monday he believed concussions in contact sports like football come with the territory and believed that part of the focus should be on preventing injuries before they happen.
“I think concussions are a part of contact sports. I watch boxing and I watch UFC. People are knocked out quite a bit. That’s part of playing these very physical sports,” Brady said. “All of them come with risks associated with it. And I think when you’re an athlete that chooses to do that you gotta understand that’s part of it, just like you can injure other parts of your body as well.
Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is examined during the first half of the team’s game against the Cincinnati Bengals Thursday, Sept. 29, 2022, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Jeff Dean)
“My view has always been an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. To do your best to really try to be proactive with your health and to make sure that when you do get injured you can recover as quickly as possible and get your body in the best position possible to give it the best nutrients as possible to deal with whatever trauma you come into contact with.”
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback was mum when he asked whether the NFL’s concussion protocols should be changed and wondered what more athletes could do to protect themselves from the often-brutal physicality of contact sports.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady (12) takes the field prior to a game against the Kansas City Chiefs Oct. 2, 2022, at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Fla. (Roy K. Miller/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
“But, at the same time, again, I think so much is focused kind of on the aftermath of that. I think what can we do in advance in order to help us athletes be in a position where we can deal with the physical elements of sports. Because you’re not going to be able to take them out of sports, that’s just not the reality,” Brady said. “If you want to play two-hand touch football, there’s not gonna be a lot of people that tune in. Concussions, knees, you know, I’d say most athletes would probably rather deal with the concussion than deal with the knee injury.
“There’s gonna be knee injuries, there’s gonna be ankle injuries, there’s gonna be concussions, there’s gonna be shoulder injuries. … I think we all kind of jump to these thoughts and conclusions in a short period of time. But, at the same time, this is just what sports are, and I think you just gotta take the good with the bad. I think that no one ever wants to see anyone get hurt. No one wants to see anyone injured. No one ever wants to see a concussion. Nobody wants to ever see an ankle sprain. No one ever wants to see a knee injury, but they happen.
“How do we deal with them in the best possible way? What are the best practices associated with prevention of them as well as if you do get them? How do you recover as quickly as possible? I think that should be really a focus as well – how you implement those protocols for athletes. It’s something we should all think about, so we can do a better job of it in the future.”
The NFL and NFL Players Association launched an investigation into the Dolphins’ handling of Tagovailoa’s initial injury suffered in Week 3 against the Buffalo Bills.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady (12) calls a play against the Kansas City Chiefs during the first half at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Fla., Oct 2, 2022. (Kim Klement/USA Today Sports)
Normally a college football team earning a ranking in the top 25, would be well-received by a program’s head coach. But not if you’re Mike Leach.
The Mississippi State Bulldogs jumped into the top 25 for the first time of the 2022 season after they beat Texas A&M in Week 5. In the latest coaches’ poll and the AP poll, Mississippi State is ranked No. 23.
“I pretty much ignore them,” Leach said when asked to share his thoughts on his team making the jump in the top 25, via Saturday Down South.
Mississippi State head coach Mike Leach looks for his players following an NCAA college football game against Bowling Green in Starkville, Miss., Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022. Mississippi State won 45-14. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
The team has not been ranked in both polls since the 2020 season.
Leach went on to say, “There’s no stopping point on the poll thing. Just worry about right now and what you can control. Today, it’s put together the best game plan you can, tomorrow, it’s have the best practice you can. So it goes.”
Leach has never been shy to tell things exactly how he sees them. Whether it’s giving a reporter wedding advice or how his team needs to improve after suffering a big loss.
Texas A&M wide receiver Evan Stewart looses a pass as Mississippi State cornerback Emmanuel Forbes reaches in to intercept during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Mississippi State in Starkville, Miss., Saturday, Oct. 1, 2022. Mississippi State won 42-24. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
“Go elope, because basically every female in the family is gonna terrorize you guys until it’s over. Once it’s over, they’ll be upset for a few days, but it’ll be over, and you cruise along and have a happy marriage and a happy life,” Leach said in reference to SEC Network reporter Alyssa Lang’s pending nuptials.
Sep 3, 2022; Starkville, Mississippi, USA; Mississippi State Bulldogs head coach Mike Leach reacts after a play against the Memphis Tigers during the fourth quarter at Davis Wade Stadium at Scott Field. (Matt Bush-USA TODAY Sports)
In September, Leach told back up quarterback to ignore outside factors during the wedding planning stage.
“Just eliminate all the family input, aggravation, constant change of course that exists with planning weddings and the anxiety and the pressure that almost drives people to divorce before they even start,” he said at the time.
Mississippi State football coach Mike Leach had some funny wedding advice for a reporter on Saturday as the Bulldogs topped Texas A&M 42-24.
SEC Network reporter Alyssa Lang asked Leach about his opinions on weddings since she is engaged to Trevor Sikkema, a Pro Football Focus analyst. The college football coach had an interesting idea for Lang and Sikkema.
Head coach Mike Leach of the Mississippi State Bulldogs speaks to his team during the NCAA football game between the Mississippi State Bulldogs and the Arizona Wildcats at Arizona Stadium on Sept. 10, 2022 in Tucson, Arizona. (Rebecca Noble/Getty Images)
“You set up a meeting, and I’ll talk to him,” Leach said. “We’ll keep a close eye on it, but whatever you and Trevor decide, I would kind of keep it on the down low, which you’ve failed to do that. Trevor was probably planning to, but you didn’t.
“Trevor was probably planning to, but you didn’t. Don’t say anything about it, but as soon as the season’s over, or even an off week, go elope. Trust me on that. Go elope, because basically every female in the family is gonna terrorize you guys until it’s over. Once it’s over, they’ll be upset for a few days, but it’ll be over, and you cruise along and have a happy marriage and a happy life.”
Leach added that if Sikkema “didn’t have the sense to do that” then he should call him.
Mississippi State Bulldogs Head Coach Mike Leach addresses the media during the SEC Football Kickoff Media Days on July 19, 2022, at the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta, GA. (Jeffrey Vest/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Leach also had the same advice for backup quarterback Chance Loveritch last month. He was asked about it in his media availability with reporters.
Sep 3, 2022; Starkville, Mississippi, USA; Mississippi State Bulldogs head coach Mike Leach reacts after a play against the Memphis Tigers during the fourth quarter at Davis Wade Stadium at Scott Field. (Matt Bush-USA TODAY Sports)
“Just eliminate all the family input, aggravation, constant change of course that exists with planning weddings and the anxiety and the pressure that almost drives people to divorce before they even start,” he said at the time.
Ryan Gaydos is the sports editor for Fox News Digital.
Wide receiver Deebo Samuel #19 of the San Francisco 49ers rushes for a touchdown as he breaks a tackle by cornerback Jalen Ramsey #5 of the Los Angeles Rams during the second quarter at Levi’s Stadium on Oct. 3, 2022 in Santa Clara, California. (Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
Samuel made the catch six yards beyond the line of scrimmage and ran the remaining 51 yards, evading several tackles. His last man to beat was Ramsey, who sat on his heels as the receiver approached him.
When Ramsey dove for the tackle, Samuel juked and took it to the house.
“Yeah, I don’t know what he was doing out there,” Samuel said after the game. “I just went right by him. He was just backpedaling, I was like, ‘What’s going on?’”
Wide receiver Deebo Samuel #19 of the San Francisco 49ers rushes for a touchdown as he breaks a tackle by cornerback Jalen Ramsey #5 of the Los Angeles Rams during the second quarter at Levi’s Stadium on Oct. 3, 2022 in Santa Clara, California. (Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
Samuel finished the night with 115 receiving yards on six catches in his best game of the young season Amazingly, 109 of those yards came after the catch.
According to NFL’s Next Gen Stats, Samuel’s 699 yards after the catch since he entered the league in 2019 are the most in the league. Last year, he ranked third in the NFL with 1,770 scrimmage yards — his 14 total touchdowns were the seventh most in the NFL.
The 49ers avoided a devastating 1-3 start to the year and now lead the Rams for the NFC West title. Both are 2-2, but the win gives San Fran the tiebreaker at the moment.
Wide receiver Deebo Samuel #19 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates with teammates after rushing for a touchdown against the Los Angeles Rams during the second quarter at Levi’s Stadium on Oct. 3, 2022 in Santa Clara, California. (Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
Portland Thorns owner Merritt Paulson and Chicago Red Stars owner Arnim Whisler are both stepping away from decision-making roles with their respective National Women’s Soccer League clubs until the findings are released from an ongoing investigation into numerous reports of sexual misconduct and abuse around the league.
Paulson, who is also the owner of Major League Soccer’s Portland Timbers, announced his decision in a statement Tuesday, one day after the release of the findings of a disturbing independent investigation into the NWSL’s abuse commissioned by U.S. Soccer. A concurrent investigation is still being conducted jointly by the league and the players’ union, and Paulson plans to step away until its completion.
“Yesterday’s Yates report unveiling was the darkest day I have experienced, and I know the same is true for everyone else who loves our team and our league,” Paulson said. “I know it was even harder and darker for those whose stories were shared publicly. I cannot apologize enough for our role in a gross systemic failure to protect player safety and the missteps we made in 2015. I am truly sorry.”
Later on Tuesday, Whisler, who also serves on the NWSL board of governors, made a similar move with the Red Stars, announcing in a statement: “Our organization is committed to rebuilding trust and respect among players and staff towards our league and club, and I recognize that my current presence is a distraction. I do not want to take any of the attention away from the players’ incredible and well earned playoff run.
“So in the interest of the club and the players, and fans we serve, effective immediately, I will remove myself from my governance role within the NWSL board of governors and will hand over operational control of the club to our executive team in Chicago.”
Yates’ report found that Whisler dismissed concerns from players about the abusive behavior of Red Stars coach Rory Dames, who resigned Nov. 21, 2021, amid accusations of verbal and emotional abuse by several players.
Gavin Wilkinson and Mike Golub, who have both served in executive roles with Paulson’s teams, are also stepping away from the Thorns, who are headed into the NWSL playoffs. Paulson’s statement didn’t indicate whether the trio will also step away from the Timbers, and Paulson gave no indication he plans to sell his teams.
NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman issued the following statement Tuesday in support of the two owners’ decisions: “The NWSL is supportive of the important steps taken by the Portland Thorns and Chicago Red Stars today. As the League continues to evaluate the Yates report, I want to assure you that we remain committed to implementing reform and disciplinary action, both as a result of the Yates Report and the NWSL/NWSLPA’s Joint Investigative Team’s findings.”
Berman added that the NWSL’s joint investigative team was working towards concluding their report by the end of the year.
In the report filed by former U.S. Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates, Paulson is accused of enabling and supporting former Thorns coach Paul Riley after Riley was accused of harassment and sexual coercion by players Sinead Farrelly and Mana Shim. The investigation also found that Paulson and Wilkinson made inappropriate workplace comments to women.
Golub is accused of making inappropriate sexual remarks in 2013 to former Thorns coach Cindy Parlow Cone, now the president of U.S. Soccer. Golub has previously faced criticism for his workplace behavior and his tolerance for others’ misbehavior.
In her investigative report, Yates also accused Thorns management of not being forthcoming with information around Riley’s departure from the team in 2015, writing that the club “interfered with our access to relevant witnesses and raised specious legal arguments in an attempt to impede our use of relevant documents.”
The Thorns didn’t announce why they weren’t renewing Riley’s contract that year, and Paulson subsequently vouched for Riley as he landed a job with the Western New York Flash, which subsequently became the North Carolina Courage. Riley was with the Courage until being fired in September 2021 after allegations of his misconduct were made public.
Heather Davis, the general counsel for the Thorns, will oversee the team’s decisions in Paulson’s absence.
“I very much appreciate your patience and believe it’s critical that the process play out with the Joint Investigation,” Paulson wrote in his announcement of his decision. “I love the Portland Thorns and women’s soccer, and am taking these steps with those interests in mind.”
Information from the Associated Press was used in this story.
LOS ANGELES — Julio Urias made his final tune-up for the postseason and case for the Cy Young Award a solid one, though the Colorado Rockies went ahead after he left and beat the Los Angeles Dodgers 5-2 on Tuesday night.
Urias pitched five innings and allowed two runs — both on solo homers. He will finish the season as the National League’s ERA leader at 2.16 with a 17-7 record.
“It’s incredible,” Urias said through an interpreter about winning the title. “Last year to win 20 games and this year to focus and win that ERA title, it’s something really special.”
Randal Grichuk hit a tiebreaking two-run homer, his 19th, off Andrew Heaney (4-4) in the seventh inning.
Clayton Kershaw pitches the final regular season game Wednesday. The Dodgers have a bye and will be off until the NLDS begins Tuesday at Dodger Stadium. The Dodgers will play the winner of the New York Mets-San Diego Padres wild-card round.
A decision on whether Kershaw or Urias is starting Game 1 or 2 has not been made yet, according to manager Dave Roberts.
The Dodgers were held to just five hits and have lost three straight to the Rockies. The Dodgers clinched home-field advantage throughout the playoffs a while ago.
“I’m not worried,” Roberts said of the recent offensive struggles. “I don’t think it’s worrisome. I think there’s a part of some human nature where there’s a little edge that’s not there given the circumstances. Our guys, the ones that aren’t feeling well, there’s guys in the cage right now trying to work on some things. It’s not for lack of effort. We’ll be ready. We’ll be ready when it counts.”
The Rockies, who have 93 losses, earned at least a split in the six-game series.
Daniel Bard pitched a scoreless ninth and earned his 34th save.
“It’s bittersweet for a lot of teams who aren’t in the playoffs,” manager Bud Black said. “We had higher hopes this year for sure. It’s a little tougher for those teams that had expectations. I’ve been at this a long time. We have some young guys just starting. (Wednesday) will be emotional in a couple different ways. You learn to quickly turn to next year, turn to the offseason and start looking forward with a season of hope.”
Brendan Rodgers homered for the Rockies, hitting his 13th of the season to give Colorado a 1-0 lead. Sean Bouchard also homered off Urias, a solo shot in the third inning to make it 2-0. Bouchard has six hits over the last three games.
Joey Gallo hit a pinch-hit solo home run in the fifth to tie the game at 2. It was his 19th homer of the season.
Urias threw 83 pitches, including 22 to get out of the first, and held the Rockies to four hits.
Urias wouldn’t campaign for himself for the Cy Young Award, preferring to keep the focus on the team.
“Like I’ve said before, that’s out of my control,” Urias said. “My job is to go out there and do what I can to perform and to put the numbers that I put up. Whatever commentary is left over, that’s for everyone to pick and choose what they want to talk about. For me, it’s doing my job. I feel I’ve been doing my job every fifth day.
“The focus is now on the postseason and doing my job for the postseason and trying to get another championship for the city of L.A. and finish it off, especially with all the criticism that goes along with that 2020 season. We want to finish off strong.”
Ryan Feltner (4-9) earned the win after he pitched six innings and allowed two runs on four hits in his final start of the season. He struck out four and walked two.
OH, DRONE
The game was delayed for about 10 minutes because of a drone flying over the stadium. Players went to their respective dugouts when umpires cleared the field and play resumed without further delay. There was a delay during a game at Dodger Stadium in 2020 as well because of a drone.
TRAINER’S ROOM
Rockies: RHP Chad Kuhl (right triceps strain) was placed on the 15-day injured list and RHP Noah Davis was recalled from the taxi squad.
Dodgers: OF Chris Taylor (neck) will start doing baseball activities on Wednesday. Dave Roberts said this weekend will be “pivotal” for him to see if he can be ready for the NLDS.
UP NEXT
Rockies: LHP Austin Gomber (5-7, 5.62) will try to make his case to be back in the Rockies rotation again in 2023 after being demoted to the bullpen this season. In 10 2/3 innings in September, he allowed seven earned runs and struck out seven.
Dodgers: LHP Kershaw (11-3, 2.30 ERA) will make an abbreviated start in the regular season finale. Kershaw has won his last four starts and allowed just six earned runs over six starts in September.
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More AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb and https://twitter.com/AP—Sports
Maggie Alphonsi believes England are the team to beat as they aim for World Cup glory; the tournament gets under way on Saturday in New Zealand as South Africa face France, England come up against Fiji and Australia and New Zealand clash
By Megan Wellens
Last Updated: 03/10/22 5:13pm
England hope to be celebrating World Cup success in New Zealand next month
When it comes to Rugby World Cup glory, no one knows the highs and lows as well as Maggie Alphonsi, and for the England legend there is only one team to beat this year: the Red Roses.
As a leader in the team that ended a 20-year drought and won the 2014 Rugby World Cup, Alphonsi knows the euphoria of claiming the biggest prize and believes the current Red Roses side have the capabilities to go all the way.
However, with England considered as firm favourites heading into the tournament – a record 25-match unbeaten run and No 1 world ranking cementing them as the ones to beat – many teams will be out to show they are the ones who can topple this side.
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“They are very much expected to win,” said Alphonsi.
“The odds are in their favour, they are number one in the world, they are the reigning Six Nations champions, they are full of confidence and have the resources, the investments and the players.
“I just think these players are prepared for it and many will be saying if they don’t win it would be a failure.”
‘They don’t know how to lose’
The World Cup will certainly present some challenging clashes for the Red Roses and they will be pushed to their limit as sides look to put them in a situation they do not encounter very often: A match in which they are losing.
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England Women head coach Simon Middleton says despite his side’s No 1 ranking and record unbeaten run they cannot guarantee victory at the World Cup
England Women head coach Simon Middleton says despite his side’s No 1 ranking and record unbeaten run they cannot guarantee victory at the World Cup
Some see this as the best way to get under England’s skin, but Alphonsi believes they are well prepared for all scenarios, even ones they do not often have to face.
“They have a ‘we don’t know how to lose’ mindset because to go that many games unbeaten, they will naturally have that,” she added.
“Some will see that as a negative because they have not lost or been tested it is hard to know what to do when put in that scenario.
“But knowing (coach) Simon Middleton and the quality of players, they will have covered all bases, including those scenarios and how to deal with it.
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“They were tested a few times in the Six Nations, especially first half against Wales in the set-piece.
“However, you can’t count out New Zealand, Canada and France because they are also feeling like it is their time.
“I think England will get to the final – crazy to say they won’t.
“If New Zealand get to the final as a home nation it would be great for the crowd and interest.
“But I am also excited by the fact that an outsider could do it, like France who always finish third.
“They might do something completely different, who knows. There are some dark horses.”
A record-breaking Rugby World Cup
Women’s sport is in a constant state of growth as more coverage and visibility drives its viewership and this year’s World Cup is expected to continue to boost those numbers.
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England captain Sarah Hunter says tournament experience could be a big factor going into the World Cup
England captain Sarah Hunter says tournament experience could be a big factor going into the World Cup
With record attendances and media interest, Alphonsi thinks, if they can claim World Cup victory, we could see the Red Roses reach the heights of the Lionesses in this summer’s Euros when the tournament takes place in England in 2025.
She said: “My expectations are incredibly high.
Maggie Alphonsi believes an England vs New Zealand World Cup final on November 12 would be brilliant for rugby as it rides a wave of momentum
“This World Cup will break many records. There are over 30,000 tickets sold for the opening game so for that many people to come and watch in New Zealand is huge, that in itself Is amazing.
“It will be the most-covered World Cup in terms of television, print and radio and I think it is going to be a tournament that will captivate the world.
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“It will add to the momentum of women’s sport especially over here and we get to put women’s sport back in the spotlight. We saw that in the summer with the Lionesses and that still blows my mind.
“The FA and the Lionesses set the bar high with an amazing tournament across the country and the amount of people that attended was brilliant.
“In 2010 we got to the final and we had a crowd of just under 14,000 which was significant back then.
“2025 is not that far away and women’s sport is on the crest of a wave and hopefully we can emulate what women’s football has done, making sure we can take it around the country and put out a statement.
“Then we can see the final at Twickenham with a sell-out capacity and good build-up.”
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