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  • Panthers QB Bryce Young says he was surprised to learn he’d been benched, needs to get better

    Panthers QB Bryce Young says he was surprised to learn he’d been benched, needs to get better

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    CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young said he was surprised to learn from head coach Dave Canales that he’d been benched and accepted blame for the team’s struggles on the field.

    “It was not something that I was necessarily expecting,” Young said following Thursday’s practice. “Obviously not something that was great to hear. But I respect coach Canales and the organization.”

    Young is 2-16 as an NFL starter since he arrived in Carolina amid high expectations after being selected No. 1 overall in the 2023 draft.

    The Panthers are 0-2 this season and have not been competitive in either game. They have been outscored 73-13, including 53-3 in the first half, and have scored just one touchdown. Young has not thrown a TD pass in his last four starts dating back to last season.

    The 36-year-old Andy Dalton will start on Sunday at Las Vegas.

    Young placed the blame for the demotion on his own shoulders, saying he needs to be more productive.

    “Last year and these first two games for the most part every snap has hit my hands and I didn’t do enough with it at the end of the day,” Young said. “I take accountability for that. There are plays and a long list of things that I wish I was better at and I’m going to continue to work and grow and be better at them. I’m always going to look in the mirror.”

    He added, “If I went out there and played better, and we won games, we wouldn’t be having this conversation.”

    Young is the first quarterback selected No. 1 overall in the common draft era starting in 1967 to be benched for noninjury reasons in his second season.

    But the QB said he has hasn’t lost confidence in his own ability, even though the demotion raises questions about his future in Carolina.

    Canales tried to cushion the blow on Wednesday, saying he still thinks Young can be a franchise quarterback and that the team has no plans to trade him.

    As for whether he still views himself as the franchise quarterback in Carolina, Young sidestepped the question by saying “really right now, I am a day-by-day type of person. Big picture stuff, that’s out of my hands. That’s in God’s hands. Organizational stuff, that is with the people upstairs” in the front office.

    Young said he’s been grateful for the support of his teammates and will continue to approach the game in the same way.

    “I’m a competitor and it’s not what you dream of or what you think is going to happen, but I trust in the Lord,” Young said. “I know that he is in control of everything and I am super blessed. It’s not something that is ideal but at the end of day, it is what it is. I have to focus on what I can do now to get better.”

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    AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl

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  • Dolphins turn focus to Skylar Thompson at QB with Tua out, heading West to face the 2-0 Seahawks

    Dolphins turn focus to Skylar Thompson at QB with Tua out, heading West to face the 2-0 Seahawks

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    SEATTLE (AP) — Having spent the past two seasons as his teammate, Seattle center Connor Williams struggled to watch what happened to Miami’s Tua Tagovailoa.

    He’d much rather see Tagovailoa on the field Sunday when the Seahawks host the Dolphins than watch his former teammate deal with yet another concussion.

    “It was awful. I mean, you never wish for something like that, and definitely with his history,” Williams said. “Just prayers out to him and his family.”

    The latest concussion suffered by the Miami quarterback and his uncertain future has centered the storylines around the Week 3 matchup.

    Tagovailoa was injured last Thursday night in a loss to Buffalo, his third diagnosed concussion in the past two years. The Dolphins have spent the week trying to get Skylar Thompson ready to make his first start since the 2022 season while also answering unknowns about when Tagovailoa — who has been placed on injured reserve — will return.

    For now, Miami is placing its faith in Thompson.

    “When I tell you that the confidence that the team has for Skylar is real and it’s earned, and it’s based upon thousands of hours that as a backup quarterback most people don’t see,” Miami coach Mike McDaniel said.

    The last time Thompson started was the 2022 playoffs against Buffalo. He never saw the field last season and his limited career opportunities thus far make it difficult to get a read on what exactly may be different with Thompson under center.

    “It’s tough because it’s not a huge sample size to see, and it’s been a long time, and you’re talking about a couple of years of growth from when he started last in a playoff game, being in the system,” Seattle coach Mike Macdonald said. “So that’s where we’re at right now.”

    While it’s a bit of an unknown how Thompson will step in, the Dolphins still have a dangerous set of skill talent like Tyreek Hill and De’Von Achane.

    “One of my favorite parts about this game is going to play with the guys next to me. It’s been that way since I was a little kid, and I just find joy in going to battle with guys that I know have put so much into it to do their job,” Thompson said.

    In the backfield

    Seattle played last week without top running back Kenneth Walker III and his status against the Dolphins is uncertain due to an oblique injury. Whether it’s Walker or backup Zach Charbonnet carrying the load, Seattle’s offensive line must do better blocking up front.

    “We’ve got to move people. Right now we’re not moving them,” Macdonald said.

    The Seahawks had only 46 yards rushing and averaged 2.4 yards per rush against New England, which made the 103 yards Walker had in Week 1 against Denver that much more impressive.

    The guard spot has been the problem thus far and Seattle could continue to rotate at right guard where Anthony Bradford and Christian Haynes split time against the Patriots.

    Bring the noise

    Dolphins linebacker Jordyn Brooks knows how loud it can get inside Seattle’s home stadium after spending the first four years of his career as a Seahawk.

    Brooks said the best way for the Dolphins to quiet the noise from Seattle’s passionate fans is to stymie the Seahawks’ offense and for Thompson and the Dolphins’ offense to make big plays of their own.

    “It gets as loud as the team can make it,” Brooks said. “So if we’re stopping them, it won’t be that loud. If we don’t, it will be pretty loud.”

    Thompson also has experience playing in hostile environments. He started a road playoff game against the Buffalo Bills during the 2022 season.

    “For me, that’s what you want,” Thompson said. “That’s why football is such a great game, and being able to go on the road, having a road opportunity with the guys and get to go in there and go to battle with them in that environment is fun. We’re really excited for that opportunity.”

    The other QB

    Geno Smith is coming off one of the best games of his career, completing 75% of his passes and throwing for 327 yards in the win over the Patriots. Smith was 17 of 25 passing in the second half and overtime, and carried Seattle’s offense on a day there was no run game.

    “Y’all been calling this man underrated for three years, and when is it going to stop?” Seattle wide receiver DK Metcalf questioned. “But he’s not underrated by any means.”

    Homecoming

    There was a huge smile on Tyler Huntley’s face Wednesday when he described the feeling of playing football in Miami.

    Huntley, signed this week by Miami off the Ravens’ practice squad, was born in Dania Beach, Florida, about 20 miles north of Miami and attended high school in South Florida. He went to college in Utah before signing with Baltimore as an undrafted free agent in 2020.

    “Man, it’s just like a dream come true,” Huntley said. “As a little kid, you’re looking up seeing the NFL and your home team being right there, you just want to be a part of it. I get the chance to be a part of it.”

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    AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl

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  • Capitals go into camp without T.J. Oshie and with a revamped roster around Alex Ovechkin

    Capitals go into camp without T.J. Oshie and with a revamped roster around Alex Ovechkin

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    ARLINGTON, Va. (AP) — Tom Wilson looked around on the bench during an informal pre-training camp skate this week and saw a lot of unfamiliar faces.

    “I felt like the new guy,” Wilson said.

    More than a decade into his NHL career with the Washington Capitals, he’s actually one of the longest-tenured members of the organization and along with Alex Ovechkin and John Carlson the only players remaining from 2018 when they won the Stanley Cup.

    With T.J. Oshie now out with the same sort of chronic injury that sidelined Nicklas Backstrom nearly a year ago and after an offseason of roster turnover, the Capitals opened camp Thursday looking like a much different team than the one that squeaked into the playoffs and got swept in the first round.

    “You want to have a solid team to be able to make the playoffs and try to win the Stanley Cup,” Ovechkin said two days after turning 39 and three weeks away from his 20th season in North America. “The last few years we improve ourselves, but it was not enough, and I think everybody understand we need experienced guys who want to be part of it and I think they did a pretty good job.”

    Ovechkin goes into the season 42 goals from breaking Wayne Gretzky’s career record. The goal is to win while also helping the longtime captain and face of the franchise make hockey history.

    Enter center Pierre-Luc Dubois, winger Andrew Mangiapane, defenseman Jakob Chychrun and goaltender Logan Thompson acquired by trade and forwards Brandon Duhaime and Taylor Raddysh and defenseman Matt Roy signed in free agency.

    “It’s something I haven’t done in my career,” Carlson said. “There hasn’t been this much turnover, I don’t think — not even close — so, from that standpoint it’s great. It’s great to take on new challenges. I think we’re a lot better team after the changes.”

    And they may not be done. Back with Washington is Jakub Vrana, who was part of the Cup run six years ago and has since been traded, waived, gone through the player assistance program and sent to the minors and is in camp on a professional tryout agreement.

    “Washington is always going to be in my heart, and I always wanted to play here,” Vrana said. “This chance means a lot to me, things happen over the past few years, but that’s already put that behind me and I’m ready to see this as an opportunity to bounce back.”

    If Vrana makes the team, he could help fill the void left by Oshie’s absence, which has been expected since the spring when the 37-year-old winger said he’d only continue playing if he and doctors could find a permanent solution to back problems that kept knocking him out of the lineup. Oshie is expected to start the season on long-term injured reserve, and it would take a drastic turn of events for him to play another NHL game.

    “He has to look in the mirror and do what’s right for his health and his family,” Wilson said. “It’s been a battle for him the last couple years. … He’s been grinding. He’s been putting in a ton of work, flying all over the place, rehabbing a ton. His day to day has been a lot harder than the rest of the guys. He’s a true warrior.”

    Fourth-line center Nic Dowd noticed it’s quieter around the rink without Oshie, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t good energy around the Capitals, especially given all the additions.

    “Mentally, I’m really excited about what we’ve done with our team,” Dowd said. “It’s something to say like, OK good, we’re moving forward with trying to get better and we’re not just staying stagnant expecting different results with the same thing.”

    Still yet to get to camp is Swedish defenseman Rasmus Sandin, who new general manager Chris Patrick said was having visa issues.

    “It’s just trying to figure out what’s going on and getting this approved,” second-year coach Spencer Carbery said. “If you know someone in the U.S. government, please share because we don’t have any type of update.”

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    AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/nhl

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  • Pumas change 3 for title-chasing Springboks after thrashing Wallabies

    Pumas change 3 for title-chasing Springboks after thrashing Wallabies

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    SANTIAGO DEL ESTERO, Argentina (AP) — Argentina changed three of its pack and could debut a tighthead prop against title-chasing South Africa in the Rugby Championship on Saturday.

    The Pumas handed Australia its biggest defeat, 67-27, in Santa Fe two weeks ago and recorded its biggest win over a tier one team.

    But the Springboks are the only unbeaten team and can clinch their first championship title since 2019 by not losing to Argentina in Santiago del Estero.

    An Argentina upset win would set up a title decider between the teams in the last round next week in Nelspruit.

    Pumas coach Felipe Contepomi has rotated in locks Pedro Rubiolo and Franco Molina for veterans Guido Petti and Tomas Lavanini, and made Joaquin Oviedo the starting No. 8 after a two-try performance off the bench, ahead of Juan Martin Gonzalez, who also bagged a try.

    The backs were unchanged while the reserves were not.

    The Pumas lost their two main backup props, Eduardo Bello, to a torn right ACL, and Mayco Vivas, who was unavailable. They have replaced them with uncapped tighthead Pedro Delgado, who is from Santiago del Estero, and Ignacio Calles, who has three previous caps. Calles was playing for Pau in France when the Pumas were crushing the Wallabies.

    If they both get on, they will likely oppose Springboks Vincent Koch (56 caps) and Gerhard Steenekamp (six).

    Delgado, aged 27, helped Dogos XV win the Super Rugby Americas in June. He was picked ahead of Racing 92’s Lucio Sordoni.

    Contepomi called Delgado “a pleasant surprise” in that he joined the squad on short notice last week and adapted quickly. “It is a great challenge for him,” the coach added. Captain and hooker Julian Montoya said, “We have a lot of confidence that he’ll have a great game.”

    The reserves returned to a traditional 5-3 split, from 6-2, to accommodate a third back, center-wing Matias Moroni, who missed both Australia tests due to a muscle tear.

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    Argentina: Juan Cruz Mallia, Bautista Delguy, Lucio Cinti, Santiago Chocobares, Mateo Carreras, Tomas Albornoz, Gonzalo Bertranou; Joaquin Oviedo, Marcos Kremer, Pablo Matera, Joel Sclavi, Julian Montoya (captain), Thomas Gallo. Reserves: Ignacio Ruiz, Ignacio Calles, Pedro Delgado, Guido Petti, Juan Martin Gonzalez, Gonzalo Garcia, Santiago Carreras, Matias Moroni.

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    AP rugby: https://apnews.com/hub/rugby

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  • Five most important visitors for Oklahoma/Tennessee

    Five most important visitors for Oklahoma/Tennessee

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    Five most important visitors for Oklahoma/Tennessee

    Oklahoma will welcome Tennessee to Norman this weekend for what will make one of the weekend’s biggest matchups both on the field and in recruiting. The visitor list headed to Norman is expected to be one of the more stacked groups they have hosted in years.

    Here are my five most important visitors at Oklahoma this weekend:

    1. 2026 DT Deuce Geralds

    Deuce Geralds will be the highest ranked uncommitted prospect in attendance on Saturday. Both Oklahoma and Tennessee are high on the list for the No. 12 overall prospect in the 2026 cycle. The feeling is that Oklahoma may be the team to beat at this juncture and a successful visit could further move the needle for Brent Venables and the Sooners. With Tennessee in the picture as well, a Vols win potentially bolster their efforts with him just the same. With an atmosphere that will take place in Norman with College GameDay as well as what is expected to be a raucous, sold out stadium, it will surely appealing for recruits.

    Geralds will get the chance to see an Oklahoma defense that is thought be one of the strongest in the SEC as well as a Tennessee defensive line that is one of the best in the country. He will of course be an Oklahoma visitor, but both programs are looking to impress.

    2. 2027 QB Peyton Houston

    Peyton Houston has been arguably the Sooners’ top 2027 target since this spring. We can also now label Houston as a blue-chip prospect as he is the No. 15 overall prospect in the 2027 class, and the second ranked quarterback. Houston has been to Norman in the past and has publicly said many times they are among his best relationships in his recruitment. Many of Houston’s values align with how Venables is building his program and he is of course aware of the rich quarterback tradition the Sooners have built.

    This will be the first game day experience in Norman for Houston, who like Geralds, and all the others on this list, also hold an offer from Tennessee.

    3. 2027 ATH Cooper Witten

    Cooper Witten has been discussed at length in recent weeks but the new No. 49 overall prospect has quite the perspective on this game. His father, Jason, is a legend of Tennessee, while the Sooners were his first offer earlier this offseason. The 6-foot-2, 205-pound sophomore is eager to watch the defenses and will be joined by his parents, both Vols alum, so there will be a fun family dynamic playing out.

    Oklahoma has a real chance to potentially separate early in this race as Witten, like Houston, has similar values and culture fit as what Oklahoma is looking to build with.

    4. 2026 ATH Jorden Edmonds

    Oklahoma is branching out into Georgia a bit this weekend, first with Geralds, now with Jorden Edmonds. The word is that the top-100 prospect in the 2026 class is someone the Oklahoma staff has really taking a liking to. Getting him on campus is a great start for their efforts in recruiting him, so it will be intriguing to see his thoughts coming out of the weekend.

    Alabama and Georgia have taken up majority of the talk in Edmonds’ recruitment, so the Sooners will try to shake it up a bit.

    5. 2026 LB Jakore Smith

    The important of the visit for four-star linebacker Jakore Smith comes in the fact that this recruitment may boil down to an Oklahoma vs. Tennessee battle. Smith has raved about each of the programs and while the final score may not determine who leads, the visit will likely be crucial in how things stand at the point.

    Smith is the teammate of 2025 four-star Oklahoma commit Omarion Robinson who has been vocal in his recruitment of Smith. You can be sure Robinson will be in the ear of Smith while on the visit.

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    Marshall Levenson, National Recruiting Analyst

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  • John Higgins becomes second snooker player to make 1,000 career centuries in defeat at English Open

    John Higgins becomes second snooker player to make 1,000 career centuries in defeat at English Open

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    John Higgins reaches 1,000 career centuries but is knocked out of the English Open; Ronnie O’Sullivan is the only other player to have reached the four-figure century milestone

    Last Updated: 19/09/24 11:36pm

    John Higgins became only the second snooker player to reach 1,000 career centuries

    John Higgins became only the second snooker player to reach 1,000 career centuries despite crashing out of the English Open in Brentwood.

    The 49-year-old Scot achieved the milestone with breaks of 108 and 105 in the third and fifth frames of his quarter-final clash against Mark Allen.

    But it was not enough to seal a win that would have boosted his hopes of staying in the top 16 as Allen – who hit a century of his own in the opening frame – held firm in a gruelling decider to edge a 4-3 win.

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    Ronnie O’Sullivan is the only other player to have reached the four-figure century milestone, having done so in the final frame of his 2019 Players Championship final win over Neil Robertson.

    Earlier, Judd Trump set up a quarter-final clash with China’s Wu Yize after hitting back from behind to claim a 4-2 win over Fan Zhengyi.

    The world No 1 nudged one closer to joining O’Sullivan and Higgins in the thousand-century club as he reeled off a break of 101 in the course of winning three frames in a row to extend his winning run.

    Mark Selby held his nerve to carve out a 4-3 win over Si Jiahui and book a last-eight meeting with India’s Ishpreet Singh Chadha, who also overcame a final frame decider against China’s He Guoqiang.

    Anthony Joshua’s heavyweight showdown with Daniel Dubois takes place on Saturday September 21 live on Sky Sports Box Office. Book Joshua v Dubois now!

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  • Lions’ Campbell selling house for privacy concerns

    Lions’ Campbell selling house for privacy concerns

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    Sep 19, 2024, 11:03 AM ET

    BLOOMFIELD HILLS, Mich. — Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell is selling his suburban Detroit home to get more privacy.

    “There’s plenty of space, it’s on 2 acres, the home is beautiful,” Campbell told Crain’s Detroit Business. “It’s just that people figured out where we lived when we lost.”

    He didn’t elaborate, but Fox 2 in Detroit reported that Campbell’s home address was leaked to the public and he and his family became the victim of pranks and harassment after tough Lions losses, including in the NFC Championship Game. The Campbell family has filed police reports, Fox 2 reported.

    The Bloomfield Township Police Department released a statement, saying in part that it “is committed to the safety of all of our residents. Harassment of any kind will not be tolerated. We hope that everyone, including fans, will respect the privacy of individuals and their families.”

    Campbell and wife, Holly, listed the 7,800-square-foot house in Bloomfield Hills for $4.5 million this week. A deal was pending within 24 hours, Crain’s reported.

    Campbell was hired by the Lions in 2021. After a 3-13-1 record that season, the team has become one of the best in the NFL.

    Campbell’s home was built in 2013 for Igor Larionov, a Hockey Hall of Fame member who played for the Detroit Red Wings.

    The likely buyers are “huge” Lions fans, said Ashley Crain, who is representing Campbell and the buyers in the sale.

    The Campbell family has already moved into a new home, Fox 2 reported.

    “I feel happy for them that they can have that privacy,” Crain told Fox 2. “And I would hope all the fans out there love him enough and they give him that privacy, and their family, too.”

    The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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  • Madrid’s Courtois backs Rodri on strike action

    Madrid’s Courtois backs Rodri on strike action

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    • Alex Kirkland

    • Rodrigo Faez

    Sep 19, 2024, 05:30 AM ET

    Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has backed Rodri‘s warning that players could be close to taking strike action over the number of games they’re being asked to play.

    Speaking in a news conference on Tuesday, the Manchester City midfielder said a players’ strike was “close” over football’s hectic fixture list, saying: “I think it’s the general opinion of the players… If it keeps this way, there will be a moment where we have no other option.”

    Both Madrid and City are competing in UEFA’s revamped Champions League this season, and are also set to feature in FIFA’s new Club World Cup in the United States next summer, which could see both teams play a total of over 70 games this campaign.

    “Rodri is right,” Courtois said on Wednesday, in a conversation with popular Spanish streamer Ibai Llanos. “There are a lot of games. A fan wants to see the best, and we have to find a balance, there are too many games, and there are more injuries.

    “With the Nations League, the Club World Cup, games are added. People say we earn a lot of money, that we can’t complain, and that’s true, but we have to find a balance, because the best [players] aren’t always going to be able to play.”

    Real Madrid won their Champions League opener on Tuesday, beating Stuttgart 3-1, but in LaLiga the Spanish champions haven’t been at their best, and are already four points behind leaders Barcelona.

    There’s been speculation about the future of forward Rodrygo since the arrival of Kylian Mbappé, although the Brazil international provided the assist for Mbappé’s first Champions League goal for the club against Stuttgart.

    The Madrid media have taken to calling Madrid’s attack the “BMV” — short for Bellingham, Mbappé and Vinícius — omitting Rodrygo.

    “Journalists want to put three letters, and they put Jude, Vini and Mbappé,” Courtois said. “In the dressing room we know the importance and quality of Rodrygo. He doesn’t have to get angry, but if he plays better, let him get angry.”

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    Alex Kirkland and Rodrigo Faez

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  • Canucks’ Dakota Joshua reveals testicular cancer diagnosis: ‘I encourage men to get checked regularly’

    Canucks’ Dakota Joshua reveals testicular cancer diagnosis: ‘I encourage men to get checked regularly’

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    Vancouver Canucks forward Dakota Joshua is out indefinitely after he revealed Tuesday that he was diagnosed with testicular cancer this summer and is currently in recovery following a successful surgery to remove the tumor. 

    Joshua, 28, made the announcement in a statement via the team’s social media.   

    Vancouver Canucks forward Dakota Joshua, #81, skates against the Florida Panthers in the third period at Rogers Arena. (Bob Frid-USA TODAY Sports)

    CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

    “This summer, I felt a lump on one of my testacles that doctors would later diagnose as testicular cancer. This news was obviously scary to hear, but thankfully, doctors were able to successfully remove the tumor,” his statement read. 

    “The last several weeks have been extremely challenging and I’ve been fortunate to have the support of my family, friends, teammates, and doctors. Unfortunately, I will not be ready for the start of training camp as I continue to heal from surgery. I plan on returning to play as soon as possible this season and I am working hard every day re-join my teammates.” 

    Dakota Joshua skates

    Vancouver Canucks forward Dakota Joshua, #81, during a stop in play against the Nashville Predators in the first period in game two of the first round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Rogers Arena. (Bob Frid-USA TODAY Sports)

    STEPHEN PEAT, FORMER NHL ENFORCER WITH CAPITALS, DIES FROM INJURIES FOLLOWING TRAGIC ACCIDENT

    “Although it was very difficult to face the reality of this specific type of cancer, getting checked by a doctor quickly was the best approach and I encourage men to get checked regularly for testicular cancer,” he added. 

    Joshua is entering his second season with the Canucks, where he had a career-high 18 goals and 14 assists in 63 games. He also had four goals and four assists in the Canucks’ playoff run that ended in the second round against the Edmonton Oilers. 

    Dakota Joshua takes a shot

    Calgary Flames goalie Jacob Markstrom, #25, makes a save on Vancouver Canucks forward Dakota Joshua, #81, in the third period at Rogers Arena. (Bob Frid-USA TODAY Sports)

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    After a big season, Joshua signed a four-year, $13 million extension in June. 

    Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

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  • Blue Jackets reveal one way they’ll honor Johnny Gaudreau this season

    Blue Jackets reveal one way they’ll honor Johnny Gaudreau this season

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    The Columbus Blue Jackets entered training camp Wednesday still hurting from the loss of veteran forward Johnny Gaudreau, who was killed, along with his younger brother, Matthew Gaudreau, by a suspected drunk driver in New Jersey three weeks ago. 

    Columbus was already taking the offseason to reflect on a poor 2023-24 campaign and the shake-up of the front office and coaching staff. 

    While the new regime is looking to start the new season off on the right foot, the entire organization is trying to deal with the grief and pain of losing one of its cornerstone players. 

    CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

    Columbus Blue Jackets left wing Johnny Gaudreau plays the puck against the Montreal Canadiens during the second period at Bell Centre.  (David Kirouac/USA Today Sports)

    “I’ll miss him the rest of my life,” Sean Monahan told reporters Wednesday, via the New York Post. Monahan signed with the Blue Jackets to play alongside Gaudreau again after eight seasons with him on the Calgary Flames, 

    The Blue Jackets, though, have already thought of one way to honor their former teammate. The team will leave his locker room stall empty this season to pay tribute to Gaudreau. Monahan will be right next to it. 

    WIFE OF JOHNNY GAUDREAU SHARES HEARTFELT TRIBUTE AFTER NHL PLAYER AND BROTHER ARE KILLED BY DRUNK DRIVER

    “There’s a lot of weight on our shoulders right now,” he added.

    As a team captain, Boone Jenner is a leader among the players, but he’s also grieving with the rest of them. 

    “To say we know exactly what to do, I don’t think that’s fair. I don’t think there’s a playbook out there for this situation and what has happened,” he said. “And that’s OK. I think we’re going to learn and lean on each other as we go on.”

    Johnny Gaudreau celebrates

    Johnny Gaudreau of the Columbus Blue Jackets reacts after scoring the game-tying goal during the third period of a game against the Washington Capitals at Nationwide Arena Jan. 31, 2023, in Columbus, Ohio.  (Ben Jackson/NHLI via Getty Images)

    Leaning on one another, especially on the ice where everyone feels comfortable, is one way the Blue Jackets will help each other through this tough time. 

    There’s a void left without Gaudreau on the ice, but defenseman Zach Werenski said everyone is excited to be around the team again. 

    “It’s been some tough stuff that’s going on the last couple of weeks, but I think we’re excited for it. Just keep playing hockey again and doing what we love to do and doing it together.”

    New GM Don Waddell added, “The guys know Johnny would want us to go play hockey.”

    Johnny Gaudreau in action

    Johnny Gaudreau of the Columbus Blue Jackets during warmups before a game against the Carolina Hurricanes at PNC Arena April 7, 2024, in Raleigh, N.C.  (Jaylynn Nash/Getty Images)

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    Under new coach Dean Evason, the Blue Jackets are hoping to improve on last season’s 27-43-12 record, the worst in the Eastern Conference. 

    Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

    Scott Thompson is a sports writer for Fox News Digital.

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  • 4 US Paralympians barred from closing ceremonies after social media comments questioning teammate’s disability

    4 US Paralympians barred from closing ceremonies after social media comments questioning teammate’s disability

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    United States Paralympians were banned from attending the closing ceremonies for the Paralympics in Paris after comments on social media questioning a teammate’s disability. 

    Swimmers Gia Pergolini, Julia Ganney, Jessica Long and Anastasia Pagonis were all disciplined for comments about fellow swimmer Christie Raleigh Crossley, who has the neurological disorder S9. 

    Their comments are clear violations of the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee rules, according to The Washington Post. 

    CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

    Christie Raleigh Crossley during the 50-meter women’s freestyle during the Paris 2024 Paralympic Summer Games at La Défense Arena. (Avery Bane/USA Today)

    “We can confirm that sanctions have been imposed on several athletes due to unacceptable behavior,” a USOPC spokesperson wrote in a statement to The Washington Post. “It is important to uphold the standards expected of Team USA athletes, and we remain committed to addressing any actions that undermine our values.”

    Other than being barred from closing ceremonies, the four swimmers are also subject to suspensions and loss of stipends, The Washington Post added. 

    US PARALYMPIC RECORD-BREAKER FIRES BACK AFTER BEING ACCUSED OF FAKING DISABILITY: ‘PRETTY DEVASTATING’

    Raleigh Crossley set the world record in Paris in the 50-meter freestyle event Aug. 29, and Long, who has spoken her mind about cheating in the Paralympics, jumped into the comments of an Instagram post where her teammates were celebrating the feat. 

    “I stand with you,” Long commented after Spanish swimmer Sarai Gascon Moreno said, “S9? It’s a joke?”

    Long continued to speak out after this comment, too, accusing the U.S. Paralympic committee of being too lenient. 

    Jessica Long waves

    Jessica Long of Team USA Swimming during the Paris 2024 Paralympic Summer Games at the Paris La Défense Arena. (Ryan Beatty/USA Today)

    “I’ve seen the Paralympic movement for so long. I think we have intentional misrepresentation [rules] for a reason,” she said, via the New York Post. “And I think we are not using it. I think we really should, right? I want to see Paralympics with integrity. I want to see it better.

    “And that’s what I will always stand for.”

    Gaffney’s comment was in a separate post, which said, “Not a positive impact. Intentional misrepresentation is never cute.”

    Pergolini responded to Gaffney with “well said” and replied “this” with a raising hands emoji next to it to confirm her approval of the comment. 

    Raleigh Crossley had to address those questioning her disability in Paris. 

    Jessica Long looks into pool

    Jessica Long of Team USA Swimming during the Paris 2024 Paralympic Summer Games at the Paris La Défense Arena. (Ryan Beatty/USA Today)

    CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

    “I went from enjoying a world record to being utterly devastated that the entire world seems to think I was a cheater and that I was somehow faking the hole in my brain and the cyst in my spinal cord,” Raleigh Crossley said, via the New York Post. 

    “To be told online by all of these bullies that I am not somehow disabled as I appear, just because I can swim faster than them, it’s pretty devastating.”

    Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

    Scott Thompson is a sports writer for Fox News Digital.

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  • Baker Mayfield says Tom Brady ‘stressed out’ the Buccaneers: ‘High-strung environment’

    Baker Mayfield says Tom Brady ‘stressed out’ the Buccaneers: ‘High-strung environment’

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    Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield has the team playing well for the second straight season, almost as well as it did under Tom Brady. Mayfield claims to bring a drastically different vibe to the team than the one Brady brought from 2020-22. 

    During an interview on the “Casa De Klub podcast this week, Mayfield revealed what he heard about the vibe and locker room culture when Brady was there. 

    “The building was a little bit different with Tom in there,” Mayfield said. “Obviously, playing-wise, Tom is different. He had everybody dialed in, high-strung environment. So, I think everybody was pretty stressed out.

    “So, for me, and everybody was expecting the Bucs to not be good last year, they wanted me to come in, be myself, bring the joy back to football a little bit for guys that weren’t having as much fun and just continue to raise the competition level. They just asked me to be myself. As a player, you really can’t ask for much more than that.”

    CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

    Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield throws the ball into the stands after his 11-yard rushing touchdown during the second half of a game against the Detroit Lions Sunday, Sept. 15, 2024, in Detroit.  (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

    Brady was notorious for being a perfectionist throughout his career, a habit he picked up during his tenure with the New England Patriots and strict head coach Bill Belichick. Later in his career, Brady even reportedly had a hard time sleeping when he made a mistake in a game, even if it was in a game his team won, according to ESPN.

    However, some of Brady’s teammates have had different takes about Brady’s presence. 

    PANTHERS TO BENCH BRYCE YOUNG IN FAVOR OF 3-TIME PRO BOWLER AFTER 2 GAMES

    Tom Brady gestures

    Tom Brady of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers gives a thumbs up in the third quarter against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium Oct. 25, 2020, in Las Vegas. (Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

    Former Buccaneers tight end Kyle Rudolph, who played with Brady in his final season in 2022, said during an interview with NBC Sports in September 2023 that Brady always kept a positive attitude.

    “If anyone had the right to sometimes be an a–hole, it was Tom. He never was. Think of how tough a year it was for him off the field. The most amazing thing to me was, with all the negativity swirling around his life outside of football, he never carried it into the building. Always positive. 

    CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

    Baker Mayfield

    Quarterback Baker Mayfield, left, of the Cleveland Browns talks with quarterback Tom Brady of the New England Patriots after a game Oct. 27, 2019, at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Mass. (Nick Cammett/Diamond Images via Getty Images)

    “My experience with Tom was incredible. First, the way he treated people. The way he treated the Glazer family [Bucs owners] is exactly the way he treated the janitor at 6:30 at night when he and maybe one or two other guys were the last players in the building.”

    Mayfield, now in his second season as Tampa Bay’s starter, has led the team to a 2-0 start after a playoff victory last year. The Buccaneers have played so well lately they landed in the top five in Fox News Digital’s latest NFL power rankings. 

    Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

    Jackson Thompson is a sports writer for Fox News Digital. He previously worked for ESPN and Business Insider. Jackson has covered the Super Bowl and NBA Finals, and has interviewed iconic figures Usain Bolt, Rob Gronkowski, Jerry Rice, Troy Aikman, Mike Trout, David Ortiz and Roger Clemens.

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  • Packers’ Jordan Love back throwing at practice, showing positive recovery from knee injury

    Packers’ Jordan Love back throwing at practice, showing positive recovery from knee injury

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    Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love might not be sidelined too long with his knee injury after all.

    Love, who sprained an MCL with just seconds left in the Packers’ Week 1 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in Brazil, practiced in a limited capacity Wednesday. 

    Love isn’t expected to be back under center for Green Bay this week against the Tennessee Titans, but fans will like seeing him throwing passes to teammates during individual drills. Love did not participate in team drills. 

    CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

    Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love celebrates a 16-10 victory against the Indianapolis Colts Sept. 15, 2024, at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wis. (IMAGN)

    When Love was writhing in pain on the Sao Paulo field two weeks ago, the Packers anxiously waited to see the damage done to the quarterback they just signed to a lucrative contract extension after a great first season in 2023.

    Because it was an MCL sprain, the Packers knew Love would be returning at some point this season, which was positive.

    To see Love at practice Wednesday shows he’s at least healthy enough to stand and throw to teammates. While speaking to reporters, Love wasn’t chomping at the bit to be back on the field on game day just yet. 

    PACKERS’ MALIK WILLIS REFUSED TO THROW BALL AFTER TEAMMATE VOMITED ON IT, COACH SAYS

    “Definitely feeling a lot better,” he said, via USA Today. “Just taking it day by day.”

    Love added that it was “definitely painful” when the injury occurred, calling it a “very scary moment” as he, like everyone else, had no clue what the damage was. 

    Jordan Love helped off field

    Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love (10) is assisted off the field after being injured during the second half against the Philadelphia Eagles at Neo Quimica Arena. (Kirby Lee-Imagn Images)

    When the diagnosis came back, Love was given an initial timeline of 2-6 weeks for a return, making this practice significant because it could be an earlier return on that timeline. 

    In the meantime, the Packers will continue having Malik Willis take first-team reps after he played in the team’s home opener win over the Indianapolis Colts. 

    Willis was efficient, going 12-for-14 through the air. But head coach Matt LaFleur put an emphasis on the run game. Josh Jacobs carried the ball 32 times for 151 yards to lead the league in rushing yards in Week 2. 

    As a team, the Packers rushed for 261 yards on 53 carries, with Willis picking up 41 yards on just six carries. 

    Jordan Love looks on field

    Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love looks on from the sideline during the fourth quarter against the Indianapolis Colts at Lambeau Field. (Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images)

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    Willis will face his former team, which traded him late in the preseason to the Packers. 

    Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

    Scott Thompson is a sports writer for Fox News Digital.

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  • Rizzo drives in 2 runs as Yankees earn playoff berth with 2-1 win over Mariners in 10 innings

    Rizzo drives in 2 runs as Yankees earn playoff berth with 2-1 win over Mariners in 10 innings

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    SEATTLE — Anthony Rizzo hit a tiebreaking double in the 10th inning and drove in both runs for New York as the Yankees clinched a playoff spot with a 2-1 win over the Seattle Mariners on Wednesday night.

    Rizzo lined the first pitch of the inning from reliever Collin Snider (3-4) down the right-field line to score automatic runner Jasson Domínguez from second. Ian Hamilton held on in the bottom half after a bizarre baserunning mistake by Julio Rodríguez.

    The postseason berth is the 59th in franchise history for the Yankees, and their 25th playoff trip in 30 years. Assured at least an American League wild card, New York has made the playoffs six times in Aaron Boone’s seven seasons as manager.

    “We’ve been through a lot already this year,” Boone said. “We understand it’s just a first step — but it’s an important one. We’re in the dance.”

    The first AL team to wrap up a playoff spot, the Yankees moved five games ahead of second-place Baltimore in the AL East with 10 to play.

    Seattle remained five games behind first-place Houston in the AL West and three back of Minnesota for the league’s last wild card.

    The Yankees managed only two hits against Seattle starter Bryce Miller, but Rizzo gave them an early lead with a single in the second for his first RBI since Sept. 2.

    Miller struck out eight over six innings while issuing four walks (one intentional). After a bumpy first few innings, he worked out of a bases-loaded jam in the third and retired the final 10 hitters he faced.

    But the Seattle offense failed to push across a run against former Mariners pitcher Nestor Cortes, who allowed four hits and struck out six in six shutout innings.

    “Our goal is to win the division,” Cortes said. “I knew how important it was today for us to clinch. Last year we didn’t clinch, so having this opportunity to pitch in this game and be able to help out the guys to go out there and throw up zeros and win, it was everything for us today.”

    Justin Turner tied the game at 1 with a homer in the eighth that handed Clay Holmes his 13th blown save this season, most in the majors. That equaled the club record held by Dave Righetti (1987) and Hall of Famer Goose Gossage (1983).

    Cal Raleigh singled leading off the bottom of the 10th to send Rodríguez, the automatic runner, from second to third. But the Mariners’ star was picked off after scampering into foul territory to dodge a flying bat that slipped out of the hands of Randy Arozarena on a strikeout, completing a strange double play.

    “Kind of a freak scenario there at the end with the bat coming down there and just kind of a reactionary thing,” Seattle manager Dan Wilson said. “It was a great ballgame on all fronts and a tough one to lose.”

    Rodríguez explained that he assumed the play would be declared dead after the bat sailed out of Arozarena’s hands, and he would be allowed to return to third base.

    “I got away and turned my back to the field and I heard (third base coach) Manny (Acta) yelling, ‘Get back to third.’ That’s when I got back to third,’” Rodriguez said. “Honestly, at that moment I wasn’t really thinking about the game, just trying to get away from the bat coming at me.”

    Turner then struck out to end it.

    Hamilton earned his third career save and first this year. Luke Weaver (6-3) fanned four in 1 2/3 hitless innings for the win.

    Mariners pitchers combined for 15 strikeouts, while Yankees pitchers struck out 14 batters.

    TRAINER’S ROOM

    Mariners OF Victor Robles (hand) was out of the lineup after taking a pitch off the hand from New York starter Luis Gil in the first inning of Tuesday’s game. Robles exited after the inning, and his status is day-to-day.

    UP NEXT

    Yankees RHP Clarke Schmidt (5-3, 2.41 ERA) will start on Wednesday against Seattle RHP Logan Gilbert (7-11, 3.24).

    ___

    AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb

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  • Champions League state of play: How many points do teams need to qualify for the knockout rounds?

    Champions League state of play: How many points do teams need to qualify for the knockout rounds?

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    The Champions League is back underway with a new format – but what do the teams need to qualify for the knockout rounds of the competition?

    A new format brings new expectations in Europe this season, with clubs looking at the mathematics to see how many points they would need to qualify for the knockout rounds in the new league phase structure.

    Instead of the traditional eight groups of four – with the top two from each group qualifying for the last 16 – a new ‘Swiss-style’ 36-league format has been introduced this season.

    The top eight sides in the league will qualify automatically for the last 16, while the teams finishing in ninth to 24th place will compete in a two-legged play-off against each other to join the top eight teams in that round of the competition.

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    Sky News sport correspondent Rob Harris explains what’s new – and why some people think it is confusing.

    The bottom 12 teams – from 25th to 36th – will be eliminated with no access to the Europa League.

    So to avoid an early elimination – how many points do you need? And what about the number needed to skip the play-off round and finish in the top eight?

    What do you need to finish in the top eight?

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    The Opta supercomputer believes 16 points from a possible 24 – so five wins and a draw from eight matches, or other combinations – would almost certainly be enough to finish in the top eight, which guarantees you a last 16 spot in the New Year.

    The data also believes 15 points – so five wins from eight games, or other combinations – could be enough to sneak into eighth place, with that points tally being enough in 73 per cent of Opta’s 50,000 simulations of the league phase.

    Fourteen points, so four wins and two draws, is unlikely to be enough for a top eight finish – so the race to five wins is likely to be the target for the biggest sides.

    What about to reach the play-offs?

    To finish in the top 24, which guarantees you a play-off spot at least, Opta believes 10 points – so three wins and a draw, or other combinations – will almost certainly guarantee you a place in that round.

    It means whichever teams win in the opening round of Champions League fixtures need just seven points from the remaining seven games to guarantee themselves a play-off spot.

    Nine points – so three wins from eight games, or other combinations – could be enough to finish 24th, with that points tally being enough in 69 per cent of the simulations.

    But just eight points – so two wins and two draws, or other combinations – runs the risk of elimination, with that points tally being sufficient in just 16 per cent of the simulations.

    So teams will be targeting at least three wins from eight to give them the best possible chance of reaching the Champions League knockout rounds.

    The Champions League table – who is on course to qualify?

    Arsenal fixtures

    September 19: Atalanta vs Arsenal, Gewiss Stadium, kick-off 8pm

    October 1: Arsenal vs Paris SG, Emirates Stadium, kick-off 8pm

    October 22: Arsenal vs Shakhtar Donetsk, Emirates Stadium, kick-off 8pm

    November 6: Inter Milan vs Arsenal, San Siro, kick-off 8pm

    November 26: Sporting Lisbon vs Arsenal, Jose Alvalade Stadium, kick-off 8pm

    December 11: Arsenal vs Monaco, Emirates Stadium, kick-off 8pm

    January 22: Arsenal vs Dinamo Zagreb, Emirates Stadium, kick-off 8pm

    January 29: Girona vs Arsenal, Estadi Montilivi, kick-off 8pm

    Aston Villa fixtures

    September 17: Young Boys 0-3 Aston Villa

    October 2: Aston Villa vs Bayern Munich, Villa Park, kick-off 8pm

    October 22: Aston Villa vs Bologna, Villa Park, kick-off 8pm

    November 6: Club Brugge vs Aston Villa, Jan Breydel Stadium, kick-off 5.45pm

    November 27: Aston Villa vs Juventus, Villa Park, kick-off 8pm

    December 10: RB Leipzig vs Aston Villa, Red Bull Arena, kick-off 8pm

    January 21: AS Monaco vs Aston Villa, Louis II Stadium, kick-off 5.45pm

    January 29: Aston Villa vs Celtic, Villa Park, kick-off 8pm

    Liverpool fixtures

    September 17: AC Milan 1-3 Liverpool

    October 2: Liverpool vs Bologna, Anfield, kick-off 8pm

    October 23: RB Leipzig vs Liverpool, Red Bull Arena, kick-off 8pm

    November 5: Liverpool vs Bayer Leverkusen, Anfield, kick-off 8pm

    November 27: Liverpool v Real Madrid, Anfield, kick-off 8pm

    December 10: Girona vs Liverpool, Estadi Montilivi, kick-off 5.45pm

    January 21: Liverpool vs Lille, Anfield, kick-off 8pm

    January 29: PSV Eindhoven vs Liverpool, Philips Stadium, kick-off 8pm

    Man City fixtures

    September 18: Man City 0-0 Inter Milan

    October 1: Slovan Bratislava vs Man City, Narodny futbalovy stadion, kick-off 8pm

    October 23: Man City vs Sparta Prague, Etihad Stadium, kick-off 8pm

    November 5: Sporting CP vs Man City, Jose Alvalade Stadium, kick-off 8pm

    November 26: Man City vs Feyenoord, Etihad Stadium, kick-off 8pm

    December 11: Juventus vs Man City, Allianz Stadium, kick-off 8pm

    January 22: Paris Saint-Germain vs Man City, Parc des Princes, kick-off 8pm

    January 29: Man City vs Club Brugge, Etihad Stadium, kick-off 8pm

    Celtic fixtures

    September 18: Celtic 5-1 Slovan Bratislava

    October 1: Borussia Dortmund vs Celtic, Signal Iunda Park, kick-off 8pm

    October 23: Atalanta vs Celtic, Gewiss Stadium, kick-off 5.45pm

    November 5: Celtic vs RB Leipzig, Celtic Park, kick-off 8pm

    November 27: Celtic vs Club Brugge, Celtic Park, kick-off 8pm

    December 10: Dinamo Zagreb vs Celtic, Maksimir Stadium, kick-off 5.45pm

    January 22: Celtic vs Young Boys, Celtic Park, kick-off 8pm

    January 29: Aston Villa vs Celtic, Villa Park, kick-off 8pm

    When are the 2024/25 Champions League league-stage matches?

    • Matchday 1: September 17-19, 2024
    • Matchday 2: October 1/2, 2024
    • Matchday 3: October 22/23, 2024
    • Matchday 4: November 5/6, 2024
    • Matchday 5: November 26/27, 2024
    • Matchday 6: December 10/11, 2024
    • Matchday 7: January 21/22, 2025
    • Matchday 8: January 29, 2025

    When are the 2024/25 Champions League knockout stages?

    • Knockout round play-offs: February 11/12 and February 18/19, 2025
    • Round of 16: March 4/5 and March 11/12, 2025
    • Quarter-finals: April 8/9 and April 15/16, 2025
    • Semi-finals: April 29/30 and May 6/7, 2025
    • Final: May 31, 2025

    Where is the Champions League final being held in 2025?

    The 2024/25 UEFA Champions League season will take place in Munich at the Allianz Arena on May 31, 2025.

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  • Five-star LB Owusu-Boateng to visit Wolverines

    Five-star LB Owusu-Boateng to visit Wolverines

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    Adam Gorney breaks down linebacker Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng’s upcoming visit to Michigan.

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    Adam Gorney, Rivals.com Video

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  • Breaking down the highest-scoring penalty shootout in professional English football

    Breaking down the highest-scoring penalty shootout in professional English football

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    Deepdale was the venue of English football’s most interminable penalty shootout on Tuesday night.

    After playing out a 1-1 draw in normal time during their Carabao Cup third-round tie, Fulham and Preston North End took a record-breaking 34 penalties between them, with an astonishing 31 finding the net.

    Excluding FA Cup qualifiers, this was the highest-scoring penalty shootout ever in a major English domestic competition. It surpassed the League Cup clash between Derby County and Carlisle United in 2016, which finished 14-13.

    It reflects a modern trend, with all five of the highest-scoring shootouts taking place within the past 13 years. That’s perhaps indicative of the increasing attention to detail during shootouts. That was certainly the case for Fulham, according to head coach Marco Silva, although it did not pay off.

    “We always prepare,” he told Fulham’s media channel. “When you play in these competitions, it is part of our routine to prepare penalties. Sometimes we repeat; not just one penalty for one player. We do it twice against the same goalkeeper. But it’s one thing to prepare in a session and another thing when it comes to a shootout decision in a competition.”

    For Fulham, the shootout’s longevity surpassed a miserable night in Aldershot back in 1987, in what was then known as the Freight Rovers Cup. They were defeated 11-10 after a 1-1 draw in normal time, with 28 penalties taken. Gordon Davies, the club’s record goalscorer, took two penalties in the shootout and missed them both. For Preston, this result betters a 10-9 victory over Oldham in the 2014-15 edition of the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy.

    This result was a big upset for Paul Heckingbottom’s Championship side, knocking out a side that reached the semi-finals last season. Ryan Ledson, who also scored a sublime half-volley in normal time for Preston, netted the winning spot kick after Fulham’s Timothy Castagne blazed his strike over the bar. Reiss Nelson, who was one of 11 changes for Fulham from their draw at West Ham on Saturday, scored his side’s goal in normal time.

    “The standard of penalties was really good,” Heckingbottom told Preston’s YouTube channel. “When you get that deep into it, showing the commitment in the game to get to penalties, and then they are racking up 9-9, 10-10, 11-11… the more it went on, the more I wanted to win the game.  To have a positive end to that is really good.”

    To mark this historic occasion, and in true The Athletic style, here is the breakdown of every single penalty on a unique night at Deepdale.

    No 1: Raul Jimenez. Fulham. Scores — 0-1

    Jimenez gets us under way. He takes a huge run-up, about 10 yards. He side-steps to the left, before strolling up to the ball and sending goalkeeper Freddie Woodman the wrong way. That’s going to happen a few times to both goalkeepers…

    No 2. Ben Whiteman. Preston. Scores — 1-1

    Preston captain Whiteman gets the hosts on the board. A quicker run-up, slight hesitation and then he blasts it to the goalkeeper’s right. Steven Benda goes the right way but can’t get close.

    No 3. Sasa Lukic. Fulham. Scores — 1-2

    Woodman goes the right way, but Lukic’s penalty, which is hit hard and low to the goalkeeper’s right, is out of reach.

    No 4. Sam Greenwood. Preston. Scores — 2-2

    The shortest run-up yet. Perhaps a moment of jeopardy, prime territory for a ridiculed delivery…

    Never in doubt. Hard and low to Benda’s right. The ’keeper can’t get near it. Ominous standards set so far.

    No 5. Sander Berge. Fulham. Scores — 2-3

    High to Woodman’s right. A second penalty that the ’keeper has gone the right way for, but he just can’t reach it.

    No 6. Jeppe Okkels. Preston. Scores — 3-3

    Winger Okkels opens up his body and aims for top bins. It’s close to the side netting and while not quite top corner, he finds the net. Benda goes the right way but to no avail.

    No 7. Alex Iwobi. Fulham. Scores — 3-4

    Iwobi’s penalty would be a decent height for a goalkeeper, but he’s done the hard part and that is sending Woodman the wrong way. He flashes the goalkeeper a little smile. We go on.

    No 8. Alistair McCann. Preston. Scores — 4-4

    You don’t save those. Midfielder McCann whips the ball high and well clear of Benda.

    No 9. Ryan Sessegnon. Fulham. Scores — 4-5

    Sessegnon keeps his eyes fixed on the ’keeper and then sends him the wrong way, but there’s a little tension.

    He celebrates by walking up to Woodman and putting his finger to his lips. So far the keeper tricks aren’t working for either side.

    No 10. Milutin Osmajic. Preston. Scores — 5-5

    Osmajic, the Preston striker, had the least amount of touches during the game. But he made this one count. That’s 10 out of 10 for the team’s best takers. Pretty flawless all round. Now for sudden death and those who didn’t fancy it…

    No 11. Timothy Castagne. Fulham. Scores — 5-6

    The night was going well for Castagne at this point. He nets his spot kick, high to the ’keeper’s right, who is sent the wrong way. There’s a fist pump to the away end. Enjoy it while it lasts, Timothy.

    No 12. Ryan Ledson. Preston. Scores — 6-6

    Mirrors Castagne’s penalty. High and unstoppable. The goalkeeper goes the wrong way. Not even close.

    No 13. Emile Smith Rowe. Fulham. Scores — 6-7

    Fulham’s club-record signing takes the first penalty of the night that looked a little dicey. Woodman goes the right way and almost gets a hand to it. The pace of the penalty carries it into the net. It’s an accurate penalty, though, right in the corner.

    No 14. Liam Lindsay. Preston. Scores — 7-7

    So many of Preston’s penalties are aimed high. It’s admirably ballsy. Fulham ’keeper Benda seems to dive under this one. Centre-back Lindsay’s penalty is nearer the centre than the corner, but it’s unreachable for helpless Benda. Preston’s players aren’t feeling the pressure of taking second.

    No 15. Issa Diop. Fulham. Scores — 7-8 

    Diop takes two steps and crashes it into the net. Woodman has not started his dive by the time the ball flashes past him. A true elite centre-back penalty. Gets a few gasps for the chutzpah. If Diop is scoring belters then this is not going to end any time soon.

    No 16. Jordan Storey. Preston. Scores — 8-8

    Storey goes high and finds the top corner. Benda goes the right way, but even if he had guessed correctly he is not saving that. Well into territory now where questions start being asked about the goalkeepers… Crack open the Carabao cans, could be a long night.

    No 17. Jorge Cuenca. Fulham. SAVED — 8-8

    Now this is what a centre-back’s penalty should look like. None of this top-corner nonsense. Nice and readable, Woodman dives low to his left to parry the ball away. Big fist bump celebration. Now a chance to end the shootout…

    No 18. Kaine Kesler-Hayden. Preston. SAVED — 8-8

    After spending the past 10 minutes or so flailing miserably around the six-yard box, both ’keepers suddenly get off the mark. This penalty is abject. Kesler-Hayden can conclude proceedings, but his spot kick is far too straight and central.

    No 19. Martial Godo. Fulham. Scores — 8-9

    And… normal service resumes. Woodman dives the wrong way. Youngster Godo, 19, is clearly unhappy with Woodman, as like Sessegnon, he goes over to him and ‘shushes’ him.

    No 20. Andrew Hughes. Preston. Scores — 9-9

    Everyone wants this one scored. Centre-back Hughes again sends Benda the wrong way and ensures we will see both ’keepers take a kick.

    No 21. Steven Benda. Fulham. Scores — 9-10

    Benda pulls off an outrageous penalty. He sticks it in the top corner. On this basis, he might be better at taking them than saving them! Woodman next…

    No 22. Freddie Woodman. Preston. Scores — 10-10

    The same applies to Woodman. Benda goes the wrong way. Woodman fires hard and low. The show rolls on and the first-choice takers return…

    No 23. Raul Jimenez. Fulham. Scores — 10-11

    Taking two penalties in the same game is laced with risk. Although clearly not at Deepdale. Jimenez changes his run-up, adding a second stutter. He also sticks the ball in the top corner, above the reaches of Woodman, who did guess the right way.

    No 24. Ben Whiteman. Preston. Scores — 11-11

    Once the ’keepers have taken a penalty, it’s not that much fun anymore really. Benda goes close here, he gets his leg to the kick, which is fired down the middle. He thought the penalty would match the standards set earlier in the shootout. Good mind games from Whiteman.

    No 25. Sasa Lukic. Fulham. Scores — 11-12

    Lukic fires his penalty in the same direction and Woodman remembers that well. Shame Lukic has stuffed the ball into the top corner, though. We go on.

    No 26. Sam Greenwood. Preston. Scores — 12-12

    Greenwood’s well-struck penalty beats Benda at full stretch. Heckingbottom and his staff are chuckling on the touchline. Parents with bedtimes to keep in the stands are not amused. Neither are the couple hundred Fulham fans who have 190 miles to travel once this firing practice concludes.

    No 27. Sander Berge. Fulham. Scores — 12-13

    Berge shapes up to smack it Diop-style but then just strokes the ball into the net. Not in the corner, but it doesn’t matter as Woodman has gone the wrong way and he slumps to the turf. Surely we’re into bruising territory for the goalkeepers now. Good thing we’re not playing on Astro.

    No 28. Jeppe Okkels. Preston. Scores — 13-13

    Okkels’ razor–sharp penalty keeps us going. Sorry.

    No 29. Alex Iwobi. Fulham. Scores — 13-14

    Iwobi’s uncle, Jay-Jay Okocha, once had a penalty saved at the 1996 Olympics by Brazilian legend Dida. Iwobi doesn’t miss. We go on.

    No 30. Alistair McCann. Preston. Scores — 14-14

    At this point, there needs to be a handicap. Maybe each penalty has to be taken a yard further back? At the moment it feels a bit pointless having a goalkeeper. They are not getting near these kicks. Crossbar challenge, anyone?

    No 31. Ryan Sessegnon. Fulham. Scores — 14-15

    How’s your luck? Sessegnon tried to shush Woodman earlier, but the Preston goalkeeper does him a favour here. The ball hits the post, hits the back of Woodman and then goes in. Does that mean two goals for the ’keepers? Is this an own goal? If so, that means more goals scored by ’keepers than saves made…

    No 32. Milutin Osmajic. Preston. Scores — 15-15

    I always liked those old-school MLS penalties, dribbling from the halfway line. Maybe bring in a defender, too, and get a one-on-one scenario going. Anyway, all of the first-choice takers have taken two penalties and scored them. It is impressive from Preston, really, as they have taken and scored 11 penalties where a miss would have eliminated them.

    No 33. Timothy Castagne. Fulham. MISS — 15-15

    Finally. After 33 penalties, we have one that misses the target completely. Castagne gets it all wrong, it’s high and wide. Completely out of keeping with the standard of penalties in this shootout.

    Obviously, this shootout was not going to be decided by a ’keeper save.

    No 34. Ryan Ledson. Preston. Scores — 16-15

    It’s over. Preston’s goalscorer in normal time seals the deal. Fittingly, he sends Benda the wrong way. A shootout of impressive quality comes to an end.

    (Top photo: Getty Images)

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    The New York Times

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  • Ex-Saint Gleason returns home after hospital stay

    Ex-Saint Gleason returns home after hospital stay

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    • Katherine Terrell, ESPN Staff WriterSep 18, 2024, 08:43 AM ET

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        Katherine Terrell came back to ESPN to cover the New Orleans Saints in the summer of 2022. She left the company in 2019 after joining in 2016 to cover the Cincinnati Bengals. Katherine is a graduate of LSU and a Baton Rouge, Louisiana, native, and she has covered the NFL since 2013. You can follow Katherine on Twitter: @Kat_Terrell

    Former New Orleans Saints safety and ALS advocate Steve Gleason has returned home after spending six nights in the hospital following a medical event last week.

    “I’ve been inside for six days, so to be greeted by the full Mooooooooooooooon, the Oaks, and our family … Reborn,” Gleason posted on social media Tuesday night, along with several pictures of him at home with his family.

    Gleason has been active on social media and had posted a picture of himself in his hospital bed watching the Saints’ 44-19 win over the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday.

    Gleason was diagnosed with ALS in 2011 and uses a ventilator to breathe. He was transported to the hospital on Sept. 11 because of low blood pressure and a fever, his publicist, Clare Durrett, told ESPN last week.

    His physician suggested he go to the hospital for evaluation, which was made more complicated by Hurricane Francine, a Category 2 storm that had made landfall in Louisiana. Thousands of people in New Orleans lost power because of the hurricane, whose winds reached almost 100 mph at landfall. Additionally, street flooding in parts of New Orleans made it difficult for EMS and first responders to travel while the storm was still moving through the area.

    Durrett had said there was a concern that EMS and first responders would not be able to reach Gleason, but “luckily, they made it through to him at a time when Steve’s health was deteriorating.”

    Gleason, a former Saints special teams captain who played seven seasons for New Orleans, is best known for his blocked punt against the Atlanta Falcons in the Saints’ first game back after the Superdome reopened in 2006 following Hurricane Katrina. He is now an advocate for ALS awareness and works via his foundation Team Gleason to provide technology, equipment and support services to others living with ALS.

    He was the recipient of the Arthur Ashe Courage Award at the ESPYS in July. He and co-writer Jeff Duncan also recently published Gleason’s memoir, “A Life Impossible,” which Gleason wrote using eye-tracking technology.

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    Katherine Terrell

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  • Woj retires from ESPN to be GM at alma mater

    Woj retires from ESPN to be GM at alma mater

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    Sep 18, 2024, 10:41 AM ET

    ESPN senior NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski has agreed to become the general manager of the men’s basketball program at St. Bonaventure, he told ESPN.

    Wojnarowski is a St. Bonaventure graduate and has a strong relationship with the program, including as a fund raiser for the school’s collective in recent years. He’s a 1991 graduate of the school and a distinguished alumnus from the Jandoli School of Communication.

    “It is a thrill of a lifetime to be able to return to a university and community that I love in a role of service to our student-athletes, coaches and institution,” Wojnarowski told ESPN. “I am hopeful that I can bring value in a lot of areas to our basketball program and open doors for our young men’s futures in ways both professionally and personally.”

    Wojnarowski, 55, has worked at ESPN since 2017. He previously worked at Yahoo Sports and The Record of Bergen County.

    “I am retiring from a dream job at ESPN and am so incredibly grateful for my time and experiences with the World Wide Leader,” he said.

    The GM role has become more common in college basketball in recent years, as the transfer portal has made wholesale roster turnover an inherent part of the sport. The role includes Name Image and Likeness allocation, recruiting and supporting successful Bonnies coach Mark Schmidt.

    “Woj is the perfect person to fill this new role, combining his intimate knowledge of St. Bonaventure and our Franciscan values with a deep network of relationships he has built across the worlds of professional and intercollegiate basketball,” St. Bonaventure athletic director Bob Beretta said. “The fact that the preeminent journalist in his field is willing to walk away from a lucrative media career to serve his alma mater in a support role is a testament to his love and passion for Bona’s.”

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  • Salvatore ‘Totò’ Schillaci, the Italy striker who was top scorer at 1990 World Cup, dies at 59

    Salvatore ‘Totò’ Schillaci, the Italy striker who was top scorer at 1990 World Cup, dies at 59

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    ROME — Salvatore “Totò” Schillaci, the Italy striker who was top scorer at the 1990 World Cup that his country hosted and epitomized a player exceeding expectations on soccer’s biggest stage, has died. He was 59.

    Schillaci had been hospitalized in Palermo following treatment for colon cancer.

    The Palermo Civico hospital said in a statement that Schillacci died on Wednesday morning after being admitted 11 days ago.

    Schillaci scored six goals for Italy during the 1990 World Cup. He came on as a substitute during Italy’s opener against Austria, scored in a 1-0 victory, and went on to earn the Golden Boot awarded to the tournament’s top scorer.

    Schillaci had never scored for Italy before the 1990 World Cup, having previously only played once for the national team. Overall, he made 16 appearances for Italy and scored seven goals — six of them at the World Cup.

    Italian soccer federation president Gabriele Gravina announced that a minute of silence would be held in memory of Schillaci before all games in the country for the rest of the week.

    “The uncontrollable celebrations, in which his face was the symbol of shared joy, will remain forever part of Italian soccer (history),” Gravina said. “Totò was a great player, a symbol of tenacious desire and redemption. … His soccer was full of passion. And that fearless spirit made everyone appreciate him and will make him immortal.”

    Schillaci also won the Golden Ball award at the 1990 World Cup as the tournament’s top player ahead of Lothar Matthaus and Diego Maradona.

    “Thank you for the emotions you gave us, for making us dream, cheer, hug and wave our Tricolore,” Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni wrote on X.

    Schillaci played for Messina, Juventus, Inter Milan and Japanese team Jubilo Iwata during his club career.

    “Ciao Totò,” Juventus said on Instagram.

    “You made an entire nation dream during the Magical Nights of Italia ’90,” Inter said on its social media channels.

    West Germany won the 1990 World Cup, beating Argentina in the final, while Italy beat England for third place with a winning penalty kick from Schillaci.

    Roberto Baggio, who scored Italy’s opening goal in the third-place match, wrote on Instagram, “Ciao my dear friend.”

    With Schillaci having been born and raised in Palermo, the city will hold a public viewing of Schillaci at its Renzo Barbera stadium ahead of the funeral.

    ___

    AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer

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