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Tag: APP Sports

  • Cavaliers close out another ‘Season of Giving’ to surrounding community

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    CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Cavaliers announced another successful Season of Giving throughout November and December. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Throughout the two months, the Cavs hosted 23 events to uplift the community

    • This past season, more than 54,000 community members were served, over 60,500 meals were provided and 470 hours of volunteer service was done

    • For more information on initiatives, click here

    Throughout the two months, the Cavs hosted 23 events to uplift the community through volunteering or providing meals. 

    “The Cavaliers Season of Giving, championed by Cleveland-Cliffs, is a tradition that reflects our shared commitment to support and uplift our neighbors across Northeast Ohio,” said Pam Frasco, Cleveland Cavaliers Senior Vice President of Social Impact and Executive Director of the Cavaliers Community Foundation. “As one organization, from the players to front office team members and community partners, we are able to make a meaningful impact during the holiday season and beyond. The joint collaboration that drives this yearly effort highlights the power that can come from our exceptional community.”

    This past season, more than 54,000 community members were served, over 60,500 meals were provided and 470 hours of volunteer service was done by team members.

    Some highlights included:

    • Thankful For ALL Holiday Dinner: Where the Cavs served 150 students and families from Cleveland Metropolitan School District’s Project ACT at Rocket Arena
    • Cavaliers Annual Holiday Hospital Visit: Team members brought gifts to patients throughut Cleveland in hospitals
    • Holiday Pajama Party: The Cavaliers visited 100 women and children at Laura’s Home with a celebration that included pajamas for all, milk and cookies, holiday story time and additional holiday festivities
    • Holiday Meal Packing: More than 52,000 meals were prepped for distribution by the Children’s Hunger Alliance through the Cavs, Cleveland-Cliffs and Greater Cleveland Food Bank

    For more information on initiatives, click here.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • MLB prepared to produce, distribute local broadcasts for FanDuel network teams

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    NEW YORK — Major League Baseball is prepared to produce and distribute local broadcasts for teams whose telecasts are uncertain this season because of the financial problems of the FanDuel Sports Network regional networks.

    What You Need To Know

    • Main Street Sports Group, which operates the FanDuel networks, did not make its December payment to the St. Louis Cardinals

    • MLB took over broadcasts for San Diego in May 2023 after Diamond Sports Group missed a payment to the Padres and added Arizona that July

    • Manfred said local media provides more than 20% of industry revenue

    • MLB and the players’ association for 2024 allowed discretionary fund distributions of up to $15 million each to teams whose local media revenue had declined since 2022 or 2023, but they did not reach a similar agreement for 2025

    Main Street Sports Group, which operates the FanDuel networks, did not make its December payment to the St. Louis Cardinals. It also carries games of Atlanta, Cincinnati, Detroit, Kansas City, the Los Angeles Angels, Miami, Milwaukee and Tampa Bay along with 13 teams in the NBA and seven in the NHL.

    “No matter what happens, whether it’s Main Street, a third party or MLB media, fans are going to have the games,” baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred said Thursday.

    MLB took over broadcasts for San Diego in May 2023 after Diamond Sports Group missed a payment to the Padres and added Arizona that July.

    Colorado joined MLB’s distribution in 2024, and Cleveland and Minnesota in 2025. Seattle is being added this season and possibly Washington, which is leaving the Mid-Atlantic Sports Network.

    A Main Street Streets Group spokesperson released a statement to Spectrum News on Friday that said: “We remain in active dialogue with all of our team partners regarding potential revised terms for agreements going forward.”

    Diamond was renamed Main Street Sports Group as it emerged out of Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings last year and its networks were rebranded as FanDuel.

    “Our focus, particularly given the point in the calendar, is to maximize the revenue that’s available to the clubs, whether that’s MLB Media or third party,” Manfred said. “The clubs have control over the timing. They can make a decision to move to MLB Media because of the contractual status now. I think that what’s happening right now clubs are evaluating their alternatives. Obviously they’ve made significant payroll commitments already and they’re evaluating the alternatives to find the best revenue source for the year and the best outlet in terms of providing quality broadcasts to their fans.”

    Manfred said local media provides more than 20% of industry revenue.

    MLB and the players’ association for 2024 allowed discretionary fund distributions of up to $15 million each to teams whose local media revenue had declined since 2022 or 2023, but they did not reach a similar agreement for 2025.

    “We are not providing financial assistance right now,” Manfred said.

    He spoke at a news conference to announce an initiative with Foster Love that envisions 250,000 volunteer hours to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States. At the news conference, MLB staff assembled duffel bags with goods for foster care children.

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    Spectrum News Staff, Associated Press

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  • MLB prepared to produce, distribute local broadcasts for FanDuel network teams

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    NEW YORK — Major League Baseball is prepared to produce and distribute local broadcasts for teams whose telecasts are uncertain this season because of the financial problems of the FanDuel Sports Network regional networks.

    What You Need To Know

    • Main Street Sports Group, which operates the FanDuel networks, did not make its December payment to the St. Louis Cardinals

    • MLB took over broadcasts for San Diego in May 2023 after Diamond Sports Group missed a payment to the Padres and added Arizona that July

    • Manfred said local media provides more than 20% of industry revenue

    • MLB and the players’ association for 2024 allowed discretionary fund distributions of up to $15 million each to teams whose local media revenue had declined since 2022 or 2023, but they did not reach a similar agreement for 2025

    Main Street Sports Group, which operates the FanDuel networks, did not make its December payment to the St. Louis Cardinals. It also carries games of Atlanta, Cincinnati, Detroit, Kansas City, the Los Angeles Angels, Miami, Milwaukee and Tampa Bay along with 13 teams in the NBA and seven in the NHL.

    “No matter what happens, whether it’s Main Street, a third party or MLB media, fans are going to have the games,” baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred said Thursday.

    MLB took over broadcasts for San Diego in May 2023 after Diamond Sports Group missed a payment to the Padres and added Arizona that July.

    Colorado joined MLB’s distribution in 2024, and Cleveland and Minnesota in 2025. Seattle is being added this season and possibly Washington, which is leaving the Mid-Atlantic Sports Network.

    A Main Street Streets Group spokesperson released a statement to Spectrum News on Friday that said: “We remain in active dialogue with all of our team partners regarding potential revised terms for agreements going forward.”

    Diamond was renamed Main Street Sports Group as it emerged out of Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings last year and its networks were rebranded as FanDuel.

    “Our focus, particularly given the point in the calendar, is to maximize the revenue that’s available to the clubs, whether that’s MLB Media or third party,” Manfred said. “The clubs have control over the timing. They can make a decision to move to MLB Media because of the contractual status now. I think that what’s happening right now clubs are evaluating their alternatives. Obviously they’ve made significant payroll commitments already and they’re evaluating the alternatives to find the best revenue source for the year and the best outlet in terms of providing quality broadcasts to their fans.”

    Manfred said local media provides more than 20% of industry revenue.

    MLB and the players’ association for 2024 allowed discretionary fund distributions of up to $15 million each to teams whose local media revenue had declined since 2022 or 2023, but they did not reach a similar agreement for 2025.

    “We are not providing financial assistance right now,” Manfred said.

    He spoke at a news conference to announce an initiative with Foster Love that envisions 250,000 volunteer hours to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States. At the news conference, MLB staff assembled duffel bags with goods for foster care children.

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    Spectrum News Staff, Associated Press

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  • Panthers superfans share excitement before playoff game

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    CHARLOTTE, N.C. —  The Carolina Panthers are playing their first home NFL playoff game in almost a decade Saturday. 

    What You Need To Know

    • The Carolina Panthers will face the Los Angeles Rams Saturday in an NFL playoff game in Charlotte

    • Sonjia Howard and Jamanda Moore are Carolina superfans who attend every home game dressed up in elaborate outfits

    • Howard has been a fan since 1998 and says she dreamt the Panthers won the playoff game

    • Moore said if the Panthers can execute in the beginning they have a winning chance


    The Panthers are facing the Los Angeles Rams, a team they beat in November, at 4:30 p.m. Saturday at Bank of America Stadium.

    Charlotte is buzzing as the city hosts the game on its home turf. This week, there were several events to celebrate before the game, including a pep rally and Sound the Drum Tour. 

    Members of the Carolina SuperFans United group who attend every home game wearing Panthers gear, masks, wigs and hats are excited to cheer on the Panthers. 

    Friday, Sonjia Howard was putting the final touches for her gameday outfit in her Panthers-themed craft room. 

    “A lot of times, if you put your own ideas and creativity into your own [out]fit, you’re going to come out looking like exactly the way you want to, and you’re going to feel proud because you did it,” Howard said.

    Howard has been a Panthers fan since 1998.

    “I’ve been through a lot of players and a lot of games, ups and downs, ebbs and flows. I’m sticking with them, my team,” Howard said.

    In 2021, she became a superfan and is known as Pink Fan Fur. She attends home games and some away games sporting pink, blue, black silver and glittery outfits.

    “We keep them energized,” Howard said. 

    In 2022, she retired from the military and moved to Charlotte because of the Panthers. 

    “I live in this state, the Queen City, North Carolina, to be a Panthers fan, that Panthers fan and go to these games,” Howard said.

    Howard is looking forward to attend the Panthers playoff game Saturday. The last time the Panthers made it to the playoffs was in 2017.

    “It’s very important that we make the playoffs because that’s what we do. We try to make it to the Super Bowl, and it’s very hard so I feel very happy that we did,” Howard said. 

    She’ll be sharing the excitement with Jamanda Moore, a new superfan known as Carolina Show Stopper. 

    “I kind of feel shaky a little bit because I know they want it. We want it, and this is our time to literally show up and show out, so I am ready. I’m ready to be pumped,” Moore said.

    Moore said after a season of ups and downs, she believes if the Panthers execute in the beginning they can beat the Rams again.

    “I feel like they have finally found their strengths, their weakness and actually just really believing in themselves,” Moore said. 

    Howard said she even dreamt the Panthers won. 

    “We’re going to be so freaking happy. We’re going to be so elated over the moon because I know once we beat the Rams, we’re taking it all the way to the house,” Moore said. 

    They plan to join other fans Saturday at a tailgate hosted by the Roaring Riot before heading to the game to cheer on the Panthers. 

    If the game doesn’t go their way, they still plan to continue supporting the Panthers next season. 

    Follow us on Instagram at spectrumnews1nc for news and other happenings across North Carolina.

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    Estephany Escobar

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  • Miami beats Ole Miss 31-27 in Fiesta Bowl

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    GLENDALE, Ariz. — Carson Beck scrambled for a 3-yard touchdown with 18 seconds left, and Miami will head back home for a shot at its first national championship since 2001 after beating Mississippi 31-27 in an exhilarating College Football Playoff semifinal at the Fiesta Bowl on Thursday night.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Miami Hurricanes have advanced to the College Football Playoff championship game

    • Miami defeated Mississippi 31-27 in a CFP semifinal at the Fiesta Bowl

    • Carson Beck put the Hurricanes ahead with a 3-yard touchdown run with 18 seconds left

    • Miami will play the winner of Friday’s other CFP semifinal between Indiana and Oregon at the Peach Bowl

    The 10th-ranked Hurricanes (13-2) had their vaunted defense picked apart by the sixth-ranked Rebels (13-2) in a wild fourth quarter, falling into a 27-24 hole after Trinidad Chambliss threw a 24-yard touchdown pass to Dae’Quan Wright with 3 minutes, 13 seconds left.

    Beck, who won a national title as a backup at Georgia, kept the Hurricanes calm amid the storm, leading them down the field for the winning score — and a shot at a national title on their home field at Hard Rock Stadium on Jan. 19. Beck is 37-5 as a starter, including two seasons at Georgia.

    The sixth-seeded Rebels lost their coach before the playoffs, but not their cool.

    If anything, Lane Kiffin’s decision to bolt for LSU seemed to harden Ole Miss’ resolve, pushing the Rebels to the best season in school history — and within a game of their first national championship game.

    Ole Miss kept Miami within reach when its offense labored and took a 19-17 lead on Lucas Carneiro’s fourth field goal, from 21 yards.

    Malachi Toney, the hero of Miami’s opening CFP win over Texas A&M, turned a screen pass into a 36-yard touchdown that put Miami up 24-19.

    Chambliss’ TD pass to Wright put the Rebels back on top, but their improbable run came to an end when the defense couldn’t hold the Hurricanes.

    But what a run it was.

    With Pete Golding calling the shots after being promoted from defensive coordinator to head coach, and most of the assistants sticking around, the Rebels blew out Tulane to open the playoff and took down mighty Georgia in the CFP quarterfinals.

    They faced a different kind of storm in the Hurricanes.

    Miami has rekindled memories o.f its 2001 national championship team behind a defense that went from porous to nearly impenetrable in its first season under coordinator Corey Hetherman.

    The Hurricanes walled up early in the Fiesta Bowl, holding Ole Miss to minus-1 yard.

    One play revved up the Rebels and their rowdy fans.

    Kewan Lacy, the nation’s third-leading rusher, burst through a hole up the middle for a 73-yard touchdown run on the first play of the second quarter — the longest run allowed by Miami’s defense since 2018.

    The Hurricanes seemed content to grind away at the Rebels in small chunks offensively, setting up CharMar Brown’s 4-yard touchdown run and a field goal.

    Miami unlocked the deep game just before halftime, taking advantage of a busted coverage for a 52-yard touchdown pass from Beck to Keelan Marion.

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    Associated Press

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  • Ole Miss, Miami to play for spot in FBS national championship game

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    GLENDALE, Ariz. — Mississippi has kept winning despite its coach bolting for another program.

    Miami has rekindled the glory days of its 2001 national championship with a ferocious defense and steady quarterback.

    One will play for a national championship after Thursday night’s Fiesta Bowl, which kicks off at 7:30 p.m. ET.

    What You Need To Know

    • Miami and Ole Miss will play in the Fiesta Bowl on Thursday night for a spot in the CFB championship

    • The Hurricanes are having their best season since they won the 2001 national championship

    • The Rebels have continued their successful season even after Lane Kiffin left to coach LSU after the regular season

    • The outcome could be determined by quarterbacks Carson Beck of UM and Trinidad Chambliss of Ole Miss

    Ole Miss (13-1) spent the last half of the regular season wondering if coach Lane Kiffin would stick around or leave for LSU. Once the coach did head out, the sixth-seeded Rebels kept winning to reach the College Football Playoff semifinals.

    Defensive coordinator Pete Golding took over as coach, and many of the assistants expected to join Kiffin in Baton Rouge stuck around to see the Rebels through the rest of the playoffs. Ole Miss and its high-scoring offense blew out Tulane in its opening CFP game and then outlasted mighty Georgia 39-34.

    Miami (12-2) is in the midst of its best run since winning the 2001 national title.

    The 10th-seeded Hurricanes have done it with a defense that went from mediocrity to one of the stingiest in the FBS under first-year coordinator Corey Hetherman. Miami gave up its fewest points since the 2001 national championship team — fourth nationally at 13.07 per game. The Hurricanes have been even stingier in the CFP, holding Texas A&M and Ohio State to a combined 17 points.

    Like most big games, the Fiesta Bowl will likely come down to which quarterback plays best.

    Miami’s Carson Beck is a proven winner, earning a national championship as a backup at Georgia before two stellar seasons as the starter. He’s been a perfect fit since transferring to Miami, throwing for 3,313 yards and 27 touchdowns on 74% passing with 10 interceptions.

    Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss took a circuitous route to the playoffs.

    With limited options out of high school, the dual-threat quarterback opted to play at Ferris State, leading the Bulldogs to a Division II championship last season. Chambliss has been superb since taking over as starter three games into this season, racking up 4,180 total yards and 29 touchdowns.

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    Associated Press

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  • Florida, UCF land new quarterbacks in portal; former USF star heads to Auburn

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    FLORIDA — Florida and Auburn have new quarterbacks to pair with new head coaches, and UCF has added a passer from the 2025-26 College Football Playoff for 2026.

    What You Need To Know

    • Alonza Barnett III, who led James Madison to the College Football Playoff, will play for UCF coach Scott Frost in 2026

    • Former Georgia Tech quarterback Aaron Philo is transferring to Florida

    • Gators running back Jaden Baugh also has signed a new contract to stay with Florida

    • Ex-USF quarterback Byrum Brown will join former Bulls coach Alex Golesh at Auburn next season

    Alonza Barnett III, who led James Madison into the 2025-26 College Football Playoff and was named Sun Belt Conference Player of the Year, will join Scott Frost’s Knights team in 2026. Barnett threw for 2,806 yards with 23 passing touchdowns while adding 589 yards and 15 touchdowns on the ground and led the Dukes to the Sun Belt championship this past season. Through his redshirt junior season, he notched 5,433 career passing yards with 49 touchdowns and rushed for 1,075 yards and 23 touchdowns.

    UCF’s starting quarterback for most of last season, Tayven Jackson, entered the transfer portal.

    Georgia Tech’s Aaron Philo announced his commitment to the Gators on Tuesday and will follow former Yellow Jackets offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner from Atlanta to Gainesville. Philo is expected to compete with redshirt freshman Tramell Jones Jr. for the starting job to replace departed DJ Lagway. Philo, a 6-foot-2, 220-pound junior, worked with Faulkner the past two seasons, serving as backup to Haynes King and appearing in eight games.

    The Gators got more good news from the transfer portal when they won a bidding war with Texas for running back Jadan Baugh, who rushed for 1,170 yards and caught 33 passes for 210 yards and two touchdowns at Florida last season. Other high-profile players returning to the Gators include top tackler Myles Graham, leading receiver Vernell Brown III and wide receiver Dallas Wilson.

    Philo joins former Tech teammate Bailey Stockton, a receiver and brother of Georgia quarterback Gunnar Stockton, and Penn State offensive lineman TJ Shanahan as key guys to pick Florida since the transfer portal opened Friday. The Gators are rebuilding under new coach Jon Sumrall.

    South Florida’s Byrum Brown, meanwhile, announced he is following former Bulls coach Alex Golesh to Auburn.

    Brown reposted on his Instagram account an On3 post announcing that the quarterback is making the move. Brown has thrown for 7,690 yards and 61 touchdowns while also rushing for 2,265 yards and 31 scores over the last four seasons at South Florida. 

    He completed 66.3% of his passes for 3,158 yards with 28 touchdowns and seven interceptions this season. He also rushed for 1,008 yards and 14 touchdowns on 175 carries while helping South Florida go 9-3 in the regular season.

    At UCF, other key players who are staying with the Knights are defensive tackles Horace Lockett Jr., who had entered the transfer portal, and RJ Jackson and defensive backs Braeden Marshall and Antione Jackson.

    In addition to Barnett, the transfer portal so far has brought the Knights running back Landen Chambers from Central Arkansas; offensive lineman Cooper Terpstra from Michigan State; offensive lineman Brady Wayburn from UConn, offensive lineman Tyler Gibson from Charlotte; offensive lineman Henry Tabansi from Buffalo; linebacker Tackett Curtis from Wisconsin; and defensive backs Kahmel Johnson from Wayne State and Caleb Flagg from Missouri.

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    Spectrum Sports Staff, Associated Press

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  • Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy fired after 1 month and 6 losses

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    GLASGOW, Scotland — After six losses and one month, Wilfried Nancy’s brief and disastrous time as Celtic manager is over.

    Just 33 days since he left Columbus Crew in Major League Soccer for Celtic, the club said Monday it “has decided to terminate the contract of manager Wilfried Nancy, with immediate effect.”

    Paul Tisdale is also leaving as Celtic’s head of football operations, and there was no word on a new manager.

    “A further update will be provided to supporters as soon as is practical,” the club added.

    Nancy lost his first four games in charge, including a League Cup final, and six out of eight in total. His final outing was a 3-1 home loss to fierce Glasgow rival Rangers on Saturday in the Old Firm derby, the biggest match in Scottish soccer.

    Nancy’s tenure ended up being slightly shorter than the interim stint of his predecessor Martin O’Neill, who had taken charge following the departure of Brendan Rodgers on Oct. 27. Nancy was appointed on Dec. 3.

    O’Neill, a fan favorite who won three Scottish titles with Celtic in the early 2000s, later said he would have been happy to stay on.

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    Spectrum News Staff, Associated Press

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  • Myles Garrett sets NFL single-season sack record with 23rd sack

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    CINCINNATI — Cleveland Browns All-Pro pass rusher Myles Garrett set the NFL’s single-season sack record with 5:09 remaining during the fourth quarter of Sunday’s game against the Cincinnati Bengals.

    What You Need To Know

    • Garrett sacked Joe Burrow for a 6-yard loss on first-and-10 at the Browns 45-yard line

    • Burrow was in the shotgun formation when he saw Garrett coming and went down

    • Garrett suprassed Michael Strahan and T.J. Watt for the records

    Garrett sacked Joe Burrow for a 6-yard loss on first-and-10 at the Browns 45-yard line. Burrow was in the shotgun formation when he saw Garrett coming and went down.

    Garrett came into the game needing one sack to surpass the mark of 22 1/2 shared by Pro Football Hall of Famer Michael Strahan (in 2001 with the New York Giants) and Pittsburgh’s T.J. Watt in 2021.

    The sack in some ways was similar to Strahan’s record-breaking sack of Green Bay’s Brett Favre. Both players didn’t put up much of a challenge when they saw an oncoming pass rusher.

    Garrett’s teammates celebrated his 23rd sack even though Cincinnati tried to go no-huddle on the next play.

    Garrett has sacked 51 players over his nine-year NFL career. Burrow is at the top of the list at 12 in 10 meetings.

    The NFL did not start counting sacks as an official statistic until 1982. Mark Gastineau of the New York Jets had 22 in 1984 until Strahan surpassed that late in the fourth quarter of the New York Giants’ 2001 season finale against Green Bay. Favre went down to the ground as Strahan was approaching to set the mark. Watt tied the record during the final game in 2021 at Baltimore by taking down Ravens QB Tyler Huntley.

    Garrett has recorded at least half a sack in 11 of 12 games including Sunday. That includes a team-record five against the New England Patriots on Oct. 26, four against the Baltimore Ravens on Nov. 14 and three one week later at Las Vegas.

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    Spectrum News Staff, Associated Press

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  • Navy beats short-handed Cincinnati 35-13 in Liberty Bowl

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    MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Blake Horvath threw a pair of touchdown passes and rushed for a score to lead No. 22 Navy to its 11th victory of the season, 35-13 over short-handed Cincinnati in the Liberty Bowl on Friday.

    What You Need To Know

    • Blake Horvath threw a pair of touchdown passes and rushed for a score to lead No. 22 Navy to its 11th victory of the season, 35-13 over short-handed Cincinnati in the Liberty Bowl

    • Horvath scored on a 2-yard run and had scoring passes of 30 and 13 yards. The senior quarterback finished 9 of 15 for 108 yards

    • Cincinnati was missing several key players, including quarterback Brendan Sorsby, who threw for 2,800 yards and 27 touchdowns this season

    Horvath scored on a 2-yard run and had scoring passes of 30 and 13 yards. The senior QB, who helped open up the passing game this season for the run-heavy Midshipmen (11-2), finished 9 of 15 for 108 yards.

    Alex Tecza rushed for 80 yards and a touchdown for Navy, which finished the season on a four-game winning streak, including a 17-16 victory over Army in its most important game of the year. Eli Heidenreich ran for 62 yards and had five receptions for 64 yards.

    The Midshipmen last won 11 games in 2019. Navy went 10-3 in 2024, coach Brian Newberry’s second season, and its 21 wins are the most in a two-season span in program history.

    “Two seasons. The most wins in Navy football history within two years,” Newberry said. “We’ve played football around here for a long, long time, and that’s a credit to these guys.”

    Cincinnati (7-6) was missing several key players, including quarterback Brendan Sorsby, who threw for 2,800 yards and 27 touchdowns this season, and its leading tackler, linebacker Jake Golday. The absences of Sorsby — who will be highly sought-after in the transfer portal — and running backs Tawee Walker and Evan Pryor left the Bearcats without their top three rushers.

    “You’d love to have all the guys that we had as a part of our team throughout the whole season,” Cincinnati coach Scott Satterfield said.

    Manny Covey rushed for 78 yards for Cincinnati. Senior receiver Cyrus Allen had a 4-yard touchdown reception in the fourth quarter — his 13th scoring catch of the season, tying a school record.

    With a wet field and overcast conditions, both teams relied on rushing in the first half, but didn’t have much to show for it. Navy had 160 yards of offense by halftime, compared to only 118 for the Bearcats.

    “It was hard to get any kind of rhythm in the first half,” Satterfield said.

    Bearcats quarterback Brady Lichtenberg said the conditions led to problems in the passing game.

    “It seemed like right when we ran on the field, the weather started getting a lot worse,” Lichtenberg said. “The rain was coming down a lot harder. The ball felt a little heavier.”

    Horvath connected with Luke Hutchison late in the first half for a 30-yard touchdown that put the Midshipmen ahead 14-7. On Navy’s opening drive of the second half, Horvath’s 13-yard pass to Heidenreich stretched the lead to 21-7.

    Coleman Cauley closed out the scoring for Navy by returning an interception 5 yards for a touchdown. It was the first pick-6 in a bowl game for Navy.

    “I just jumped the route,” Coleman said. “I wasn’t going down, I was getting to the end zone.”

    The takeaway

    Navy: The Midshipmen relied on their running game to churn out yardage, with an occasional big play thrown in. Navy tested Cincinnati’s young secondary, even though Horvath missed receivers a few times.

    Cincinnati: Opt-outs left the Bearcats with an inexperienced squad. Along with Lichtenberg, Samaj Jones saw action at quarterback. Cincinnati finished with 239 yards of offense and a dozen first downs.

    Up next

    Navy: While the Midshipmen don’t have to worry about losing players to the transfer portal, they do have to replace some key seniors, including Horvath, Tecza and Heidenreich, plus defensive standouts like Landon Robinson.

    Cincinnati: The Bearcats improved upon last season, even though they dropped last five games after reaching No. 17 in the AP poll. Satterfield is set to get to work immediately on replenishing the roster. “We’re looking for guys with character. Guys that are going to do things right,” he said. “The guys we’re bringing in, if they don’t have that, they’re not going to be here.”

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    Spectrum News Staff, Associated Press

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  • Cavaliers outlast short-handed Nuggets 113-108

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    CLEVELAND — Donovan Mitchell scored 33 points and Darius Garland had 18 points and eight assists as the Cleveland Cavaliers beat the short-handed Denver Nuggets 113-108 on Friday night.

    What You Need To Know

    • Donovan Mitchell scored 33 points while Darius Garland scored 18 as the Vacs beat the short-handed Denver Nuggets 113-108 Friday

    • The Cavaliers trailed 105-101 with 4:43 remaining before scoring 10 consecutive points

    • The Cavs host Detroit on Sunday

    De’Andre Hunter added 16 points and Jarrett Allen had eight points and 12 rebounds for the Cavaliers, who trailed 105-101 with 4:43 remaining before scoring 10 consecutive points. Garland’s 3-pointer put them ahead for good with 2:13 left.

    Jamal Murray scored 28 of his 34 points in the first half for the Nuggets, who played their second game without superstar center Nikola Jokic. The three-time MVP hyperextended his left knee at Miami on Dec. 29 and will miss at least a month.

    Peyton Watson had 21 points and Tim Hardaway Jr. scored 15, but missed eight of their nine shots in the fourth quarter as Denver was outscored 24-11. Murray also had six rebounds and seven assists, finishing 12 for 28 from the field.

    Three additional Nuggets starters were inactive in forwards Aaron Gordon (right hamstring strain) and Cam Johnson (right knee soreness) and guard Christian Braun (left ankle sprain). Backup center Jonas Valanciunas (right calf strain) also is out for a month.

    The Cavaliers took advantage of their absences, dominating the rebounding battle 55-32. Reigning Defensive Player of the Year Evan Mobley had eight points, 11 rebounds and three blocks, but missed all five of his free throws.

    Mitchell, Garland, Mobley and Allen were all in the starting lineup for just the seventh time this season, winning for the fifth time. The Cavaliers have played an NBA-high 21 home games and are 13-8 at Rocket Arena.

    Lonzo Ball saw his first action in three games for Cleveland, scoring six points in 15 minutes. Ball was taken out of the rotation in favor of Craig Porter Jr., who had 10 points, six rebounds and five assists.

    Up next

    Nuggets: Visit Brooklyn on Sunday.

    Cavaliers: Host Detroit on Sunday.

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    Spectrum News Staff, Associated Press

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  • QB Joe Flacco appreciative of his chance to play for the Bengals

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    CINCINNATI — After opening the season as the starting quarterback for the Cleveland Browns facing the Cincinnati Bengals, Joe Flacco will close the season as the backup for the Bengals as they face the Browns on Sunday.

    What You Need To Know

    • Joe Flacco has had an eventful season, starting as the Cleveland Browns quarterback against the Cincinnati Bengals and ending as the Bengals’ backup against the Browns

    • Flacco joined the Bengals in October, making six starts while Joe Burrow was injured

    • Despite a 1-5 record, Flacco performed well, throwing for more than 200 yards in four games
    • Burrow returned as the starter on Thanksgiving, with Flacco as backup. As a free agent soon, Flacco hopes to find another starting opportunity

    Flacco was dealt to the Bengals in October and made six starts for the Bengals while Joe Burrow was out with a toe injury.

    “I don’t really think about putting a label on it,” Flacco said. “It’s crazy. Seasons always go by quick once they’ve started. But the way that this one went, it seems like it flew by.”

    During the summer, in Cleveland Browns training camp, Flacco won a competition for the starting quarterback job and made four starts for Cleveland. In Week 1 against the Bengals, Flacco threw for 290 yards.

    He said that over the past 17 weeks, he has seen improvement from the Bengals defense. Now, he refers to the Bengals defense as his team’s defense.

    “We’re stopping the run,” Flacco said. “We’re getting more pressure on the quarterback. When you combine those two things, it’s going to help you out.”

    While Flacco went 1-5 as a starter in Cincinnati, the 40-year-old played well. He threw for at least 200 yards in four of his six starts, and the Bengals offense averaged more than 27 points per game.

    Flacco said that he developed a lot of respect for Bengals coach Zac Taylor.

    “He has a lot of strengths,” Flacco said. “He’s really good at what he does. His demeanor, his overall personality and the way he leads men is really good. The way he puts game plans together. Also, he’s willing to allow it to be collaborative. That’s a strength. His game day play-calling is also something he does really well.”

    Burrow took over as the starter when he returned on Thanksgiving, and Flacco has been the backup over the past month.

    Flacco will be a free agent again at the end of the season. As he evaluates his options, he’s hoping to find another chance to play and to start.

    “That’s always a priority,” Flacco said. “I’m somebody who wants to play football. You’ve got to assess and see whatever is thrown your way. You have to go from there and see what you can do about it.”

    He said that he’d be open to returning to the Bengals, but he’ll weigh several factors.

    “I haven’t really thought about it,” Flacco said. “I don’t hope to do anything. I have an idea of maybe of what some goals would be. I’ll go from there and see what happens.”

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    Spectrum News Staff, Associated Press

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  • Myles Garrett will try to break NFL sacks record in finale against Bengals

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    CINCINNATI — Myles Garrett has sacked Joe Burrow plenty of times in the six seasons since Burrow was the top overall pick by the Cincinnati Bengals in 2020.

    What You Need To Know

    • Myles Garrett is on the brink of setting the NFL’s single-season sack record

    • He needs one more to surpass Michael Strahan and T.J. Watt’s record of 22 1/2. Garrett has sacked Joe Burrow and Lamar Jackson the most, with 11 each

    • The Browns face the Bengals on Sunday and Garrett is confident about breaking the record
    • Meanwhile, the Browns’ Kevin Stefanski could be coaching his last game as the team has struggled since making the playoffs in 2023

    That’s why it would be fitting if the Cleveland Browns All-Pro pass rusher takes down the Bengals quarterback Sunday to tie or set the NFL’s single-season sacks record.

    “He’s got me a lot,” Burrow said.

    Eleven times, actually. That’s tied with Baltimore’s Lamar Jackson for the most among the 51 players Garrett has sacked.

    For the season, Garrett is at 22 sacks and needs one to surpass Michael Strahan and T.J. Watt’s shared mark of 22 1/2.

    “I’ve seen his face on the ground looking up at me saying, ‘Hi, Myles’ and ‘Hi, Joe’, too many times. So yeah, I figured he’d be at the top,” Garrett said Friday about Burrow’s spot on his personal sacks list.

    Garrett had two sacks in the Browns’ 17-16 loss to the Bengals in the season opener. He’s also three away from achieving his goal of 25, which he has had written on his right wrist tape since early in the season.

    “My confidence hasn’t wavered,” Garrett said of setting the record. “I’m fully confident that it will come.”

    Burrow said the one thing he has appreciated about Garrett is the ability to remain even-keeled despite what is taking place around him.

    “He’s more athletic than everybody else on the field. He’s bigger, stronger than everybody else,” Burrow said. “He has a mindset that he’s not too high or too low at any point, which is pretty unique for a defensive lineman. I think he’s probably got a unique mindset as far as that position goes, but it’s one that you can appreciate.”

    Both teams would like to end the season with a win.

    Cleveland (4-12) surpassed its win total from last year with a 13-6 victory over Pittsburgh last week. Cincinnati (6-10) has two straight weeks during which it has scored at least 37 points after being shut out against Baltimore on Dec. 14.

    Stefanski’s future

    Kevin Stefanski could be coaching his last game for the Browns on Sunday. He’s a two-time NFL coach of the year, but Cleveland has gone 7-26 since making the playoffs in 2023.

    Stefanski, who has a 44-56 record, has refused to address his future the past couple weeks. He has led the Browns for six seasons, the longest tenure for a Cleveland coach since Sam Rutigliano, who was at the helm for 6 1/2 seasons from 1978 through ’84.

    “This game is never going to be about one person, and that includes me,” Stefanski said on Friday.

    If the Browns part ways with Stefanski, it likely won’t take long. Since Jimmy Haslam became owner in 2012, the news of a coaching change has happened on Sunday night after the final game.

    “I want things to be successful. However that looks,” said Garrett about if he would prefer to see continuity with the coaching staff.

    Taylor’s time

    Zac Taylor appears set for an eighth season in Cincinnati despite a 52-62-1 mark and not making the playoffs for the third straight year.

    Taylor has two seasons remaining on his contract and owner Mike Brown is conservative when it comes to making changes. Taylor also has the backing of Burrow, who has often expressed his support for not only his coach, but the front office.

    Short-handed

    Cleveland rookie QB Shedeur Sanders will be without his leading rusher and receiver.

    Running back Quinshon Judkins was lost for the season with a broken leg on Dec. 21 against Buffalo, and tight end Harold Fannin Jr. has been declared out due to a groin injury. Fannin first suffered it during practice on Dec. 26 and aggravated it two days later against Pittsburgh after catching a 28-yard touchdown pass from Sanders.

    Sanders is 2-4 and averaging 207 passing yards per game in his six starts.

    “Just stay consistent, taking what they give me,” Sanders said about his goals for the final start. “Whenever we get off rhythm, get back on rhythm, get back on track. And I think that’s the next part of my game I’m trying to evolve is whenever it’s either we’re stagnant or some adversity comes and being able to get back on track.”

    Signs of improvement

    The Bengals’ defense is ranked near the bottom of most categories — including last in total and yards rushing allowed — but it has done a better job of forcing turnovers during the latter half of the season.

    Cincinnati has forced 11 takeaways the last six games, tied for third most in the NFL during that span.

    More could come against the Browns as Sanders has thrown seven interceptions the past three games.

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    Spectrum News Staff, Associated Press

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  • Buccaneers beat the Panthers 16-14, stay alive in chase for NFC South title

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    TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — The winner of the NFC South will have a losing record and be crowned at home watching on television.

    Baker Mayfield threw a touchdown pass to Cade Otton, Chase McLaughlin kicked three field goals and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers avoided elimination with a sloppy 16-14 victory over the Carolina Panthers on a rain-soaked Saturday.

    The Buccaneers (8-9) need New Orleans (6-10) to beat or tie Atlanta (7-9) on Sunday to clinch a fifth straight NFC South title.

    If the Falcons win, the Panthers (8-9) will secure their first division championship since coach Ron Rivera and quarterback Cam Newton led them to a 15-1 record and a Super Bowl appearance 10 years ago.

    The Buccaneers hold a two-team tiebreaker over the Panthers. But Carolina holds the three-team tiebreaker over Tampa Bay if Atlanta also finishes 8-9.

    Before the Buccaneers faced New Orleans in October, Mayfield accused the Saints of dirty play and said: “I do not like them.”

    Now, Tampa Bay’s playoff hopes hinge on the Saints beating the Falcons on the road on Sunday.

    The Buccaneers were 0-8 in games where Mayfield threw an interception before overcoming his ninth pick in the last eight games.

    After McLaughlin’s 38-yard field-goal try was blocked with just over five minutes remaining, Carolina got within 16-14 on Bryce Young’s 8-yard TD pass to Jalen Coker with 2:27 left.

    Mayfield tossed a short pass to Otton for a 20-yard gain on third-and-4 to extend Tampa Bay’s drive and run off more time. The Panthers got the ball back at their 3 with 18 seconds and no timeouts left. The game ended on a desperate series of laterals that resulted in a fumble.

    Mayfield connected with Otton on an 18-yard TD pass for a 7-0 lead as the Bucs scored a touchdown on their opening drive for the third straight game. It was Otton’s first TD of the season.

    Down 10-0, the Panthers turned Christian Rozeboom’s interception into a quick score. Rozeboom returned the pick 20 yards to Tampa Bay’s 19. Young then connected with Tommy Tremble on an 8-yard TD pass to cut it to 10-7.

    Jacob Parrish picked off Young late in the second half and the Buccaneers got a 36-yard field goal from McLaughlin to take a 13-7 halftime lead.

    McLaughlin kicked a 48-yard field goal early in the fourth to extend Tampa Bay’s lead.

    Carolina’s Ryan Fitzgerald missed a 54-yarder short on the opening drive of the third quarter.

    Mayfield completed his first six passes before misfiring on a cross-field, 13-yard toss to Payne Durham, who was wide open in the end zone. The Bucs settled for McLaughlin’s 29-yard field goal and a 10-0 lead.

    End of an era

    Gene Deckerhoff, the voice of the Buccaneers for 37 years on radio, is retiring after the season. Six-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Mike Evans and veteran linebacker Lavonte David could have played their last game with the Buccaneers and possibly in the NFL if they choose to retire.

    David was a second-round pick in 2012, made one Pro Bowl, was a first-team All-Pro once and second team All-Pro twice.

    Evans, the No. 7 overall pick in 2014, had a 1,000-yard season every year of his career until this one, when he broke his clavicle in October and missed several games.

    Injuries

    Panthers: DT Bobby Brown III (head) left the game to be evaluated for a concussion.

    Buccaneers: LB Anthony Walker (ankle) was injured on the opening kickoff. … CB Jamel Dean (shoulder) and OLB Anthony Nelson (knee) didn’t play. … DT Calijah Kancey (pectoral) was active for the first time since Week 2.

    Up next

    Panthers: Host a wild-card game or start the offseason.

    Buccaneers: Host a wild-card game or start the offseason.

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    Associated Press

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  • Buccaneers beat the Panthers 16-14, stay alive in chase for NFC South title

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    TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — The winner of the NFC South will have a losing record and be crowned at home watching on television.

    Baker Mayfield threw a touchdown pass to Cade Otton, Chase McLaughlin kicked three field goals and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers avoided elimination with a sloppy 16-14 victory over the Carolina Panthers on a rain-soaked Saturday.

    The Buccaneers (8-9) need New Orleans (6-10) to beat or tie Atlanta (7-9) on Sunday to clinch a fifth straight NFC South title.

    If the Falcons win, the Panthers (8-9) will secure their first division championship since coach Ron Rivera and quarterback Cam Newton led them to a 15-1 record and a Super Bowl appearance 10 years ago.

    The Buccaneers hold a two-team tiebreaker over the Panthers. But Carolina holds the three-team tiebreaker over Tampa Bay if Atlanta also finishes 8-9.

    Before the Buccaneers faced New Orleans in October, Mayfield accused the Saints of dirty play and said: “I do not like them.”

    Now, Tampa Bay’s playoff hopes hinge on the Saints beating the Falcons on the road on Sunday.

    The Buccaneers were 0-8 in games where Mayfield threw an interception before overcoming his ninth pick in the last eight games.

    After McLaughlin’s 38-yard field-goal try was blocked with just over five minutes remaining, Carolina got within 16-14 on Bryce Young’s 8-yard TD pass to Jalen Coker with 2:27 left.

    Mayfield tossed a short pass to Otton for a 20-yard gain on third-and-4 to extend Tampa Bay’s drive and run off more time. The Panthers got the ball back at their 3 with 18 seconds and no timeouts left. The game ended on a desperate series of laterals that resulted in a fumble.

    Mayfield connected with Otton on an 18-yard TD pass for a 7-0 lead as the Bucs scored a touchdown on their opening drive for the third straight game. It was Otton’s first TD of the season.

    Down 10-0, the Panthers turned Christian Rozeboom’s interception into a quick score. Rozeboom returned the pick 20 yards to Tampa Bay’s 19. Young then connected with Tommy Tremble on an 8-yard TD pass to cut it to 10-7.

    Jacob Parrish picked off Young late in the second half and the Buccaneers got a 36-yard field goal from McLaughlin to take a 13-7 halftime lead.

    McLaughlin kicked a 48-yard field goal early in the fourth to extend Tampa Bay’s lead.

    Carolina’s Ryan Fitzgerald missed a 54-yarder short on the opening drive of the third quarter.

    Mayfield completed his first six passes before misfiring on a cross-field, 13-yard toss to Payne Durham, who was wide open in the end zone. The Bucs settled for McLaughlin’s 29-yard field goal and a 10-0 lead.

    End of an era

    Gene Deckerhoff, the voice of the Buccaneers for 37 years on radio, is retiring after the season. Six-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Mike Evans and veteran linebacker Lavonte David could have played their last game with the Buccaneers and possibly in the NFL if they choose to retire.

    David was a second-round pick in 2012, made one Pro Bowl, was a first-team All-Pro once and second team All-Pro twice.

    Evans, the No. 7 overall pick in 2014, had a 1,000-yard season every year of his career until this one, when he broke his clavicle in October and missed several games.

    Injuries

    Panthers: DT Bobby Brown III (head) left the game to be evaluated for a concussion.

    Buccaneers: LB Anthony Walker (ankle) was injured on the opening kickoff. … CB Jamel Dean (shoulder) and OLB Anthony Nelson (knee) didn’t play. … DT Calijah Kancey (pectoral) was active for the first time since Week 2.

    Up next

    Panthers: Host a wild-card game or start the offseason.

    Buccaneers: Host a wild-card game or start the offseason.

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    Associated Press

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  • Kucherov, Raddysh carry the Lightning past the Sharks, 7–3

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    SAN JOSE, Calif. (AP) — Nikita Kucherov scored his 20th goal of the season on a second-period power play and added four assists, Darren Raddysh had a hat trick and the Tampa Bay Lightning beat the San Jose Sharks 7–3 on Saturday.

    Brayden Point, Dominic James and Brandon Hagel also scored for Tampa Bay, and Oliver Bjorkstrand and Jake Guentzel each had two assists. Andrei Vasilevskiy stopped 19 shots.

    The Lightning raced to a three-goal lead in the first seven minutes. Point opened the scoring at 2:37, Raddysh followed at 4:08, and Hagel scored his 19th goal of the season on a power play at 6:46 to chase goalie Yaroslav Askarov.

    Pavol Regenda had a hat trick for the Sharks, and Timothy Liljegren and Jeff Skinner each had two assists. Macklin Celebrini added an assist to extend his points streak to 10 games. Askarov made seven saves. Alex Nedeljkovic stopped 12 shots in relief.

    Up next

    Lightning: Host Colorado on Tuesday night.

    Sharks: Host Columbus on Tuesday night.

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    Associated Press

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  • A dream come true: N.C. State’s biggest fan meets basketball team

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    RALEIGH, N.C. — Fandom is a passion for at least one person in our state.

    A teenager had the time of his life meeting the men in Wolfpack Red.

    What You Need To Know

    • Luke Girardin found himself at the epicenter of his favorite school Friday afternoon: N.C. State

    • Girardin loves the Wolfpack, and got to meet the basketball team

    • The 16-year-old high-fived the players and let them know how much he loves them in his own way

    • He has been diagnosed with alopecia, a skin condition, and Down syndrome


    Luke Girardin found himself at the epicenter of his favorite school Friday afternoon: N.C. State.

    Girardin loves the Wolfpack, and got to meet the basketball team.

    “It doesn’t take him being in a room more than two minutes. Everyone’s in love with Luke, and you just can’t not love that kid,” his mother, Kami Girardin, said.

    This teenager was visibly over the moon with joy before walking into the Lenovo Center to be introduced to the Wolfpack.

    Luke’s parents learned he was diagnosed with alopecia, a skin condition, and Down syndrome — a condition marked by developmental delays and intellectual disabilities.

    His mom and dad said this wouldn’t have happened without the help of Dream On 3, a nonprofit based in Charlotte, connecting young girls and boys with their dreams through sports.

    The 16-year-old high-fived the players and let them know how much he loves them in his own way.

    Rob Girardin, his father, said his son is one of a kind.

    “He does his own thing. But he’s just, his happiness is infectious and contagious, and he just makes everyone around him smile,” Girardin said.

    His mother said without giving him many details, her son knew something special was happening Friday.

    “People are just drawn to Luke. He’s drawn to them, and you can’t not be drawn to him. I honestly never saw anyone in his 16 years treat him badly. He just makes everyone smile and ends up with high-fives and hugs everywhere he goes,” Kami Girardin said. “Luke loves people, love sports, loves N.C. State. So this is just an amazing opportunity for him to meet the team, meet the coach. He’s never got to do that.”

    But no medical diagnosis on earth can contain the excitement shining in his eyes and the look on his face.

    “It doesn’t take him being in a room more than two minutes. Everyone’s in love with Luke, and you just can’t not love that kid,” Girardin said.

    Because this young man had the time of his life.

    While he’s short on words, you don’t have to hear him talk to know how he feels because you can see it.

    His family said the team embraced him with open arms.

    “We’re just very grateful for the team at Dream On 3 to give Luke this opportunity. It’s just an awesome day. We are big Wolfpack fans and just love to be able to share with everyone and the family, and especially have Luke be able to have this opportunity to have just a great day and (a) great, great dream for him,” Rob Girardin said.

    Luke will also attend two games this weekend. Saturday’s men’s game against Virginia and Sunday’s women’s game against Cal.

    Follow us on Instagram at spectrumnews1nc for news and other happenings across North Carolina.

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    Patrick Thomas

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  • Here’s a guide to all the sporting events to watch on the New Years holiday

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    New Years is a time to look back on the past but also look into the future and make some resolutions.

    It’s also a time that is chalk full of sporting events to fill the gaps in between.

    Here’s a guide to some of the most interesting sporting events happening on New Years Eve and New Years:

    What to watch on New Years Eve day

    College Basketball: UConn at Xavier, 5 p.m., Peacock: The red-hot huskies face a formidable oppenent in the Musketeers on New Years Eve. Solo Ball has led the way for UConn, averaging around 15 ppg, while Xavier is led by Tre Carroll, who is averaging around 16 a game.

    St. John’s at Gerogetown, 8 p.m., FS1: Rick Patino and the Red Storm are taking on the Hoyas to end the year. St John’s has an explosive offense, which averages nearly 88 ppg, while Georgetown averages 78 ppg.

    NBA: Phoenix at Cleveland, 3:30 p.m., NBA TV: The Suns and Devin Booker will look to take one in at Rocket Arena against the Cavs. Both teams have played avergae to this point in the season, with each team being carried by their respective stars.

    Portland at Oklahoma City, 8 p.m., NBA TV: The juggarnaut that is the Thunder will be hosting the Blazers on the New Years Eve. Portalnd will look upset the defending champs behind leading scorer Deni Avdija.

    Golden State at Charolotte, 1 p.m., NBA TV: Steph Curry heads to his home state to face the Hornets on New years Eve Day. Golden State’s aging roster has not played up to its previous level, but has been serviceable so far this season. The Hornets will look to upset Golden State, with Miles Bridges leading the way.

    College Football: Miami vs. Ohio State, 7:30 p.m., ESPN: The Hurricanes and Buckeyes will faceoff in the Cotton Bowl Classic this year. The Ohio State has only lost one game all season, while Miami has only lost two. The Buckeyes are favored by 9.5 points going into the matchup.

    Iowa vs. Vanderbilt, 12p.m., ESPN: The Hawkeyes and the Commodores will face off in the ReliaQuest Bowl on New Years Eve Day. Vandy has won four of its last five, while Iowa has won three of its last five.

    Arizona St. vs. Duke, 2 p.m., CBS: The Sun Devils and the Blue Devils will battle on the gridiron in the Sun Bowl. Both teams have won three of their lat five.

    Michigan vs. Texas, 3 p.m., ABC: The Citrus Bowl will feature a highly contested matchup between Michigan and Texas. The Longhorns and the Wolverines are both red hot, winning four of their last five.

    Nebraska vs. Utah 3:30 p.m., ESPN: The Las Vegas Bowl pits the Utes against the Cornhuskers on New Years Eve Day. Utah has won the last five games, while Nebraska has struggled as of late, only winning two of their last five.

    What to watch on New Years Day

    College Football: Oregon vs. Texas Tech, noon, ESPN: Number four ranked Texas Tech and number five ranked Oregon will faceoff to start the new year. Both one-loss teams are battling for the Orange Bowl. Oregon is favored to upset Texas Tech.

    Alabama vs. Indiana, 4 p.m., ESPN: Undefeated Indiana and underdog Alabama are pit against each other for the Rose Bowl. Indiana is favored by a touchdown in this matchup.

    Ole Miss vs. Georgia, 8 p.m., ESPN: The Rebels and Bulldogs will faceoff to close out college football for the evening. Both teams have won their last five going into the Sugar Bowl.

    NBA: Philadelphia at Dallas, 8:30 p.m., NBA TV: The 76er’s are taking on a struggling Dallas squad on New Years Day. Joel Embiid will look to continue getting back in the groove of things after being hurt for most of the season, while rookie Cooper Flagg will battle with VJ Edgecomb to see who is the better first year starter in this matchup.                                                                                                                                                                                                      

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    Ryan Johnston

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  • Gene Deckerhoff, voice of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, is retiring

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    TAMPA — The voice of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is hanging up his microphone.

    Play-by-play announcer Gene Deckerhoff and the team announced Wednesday that he will retire at the end of the season.

    “Calling Buccaneers games has been one of the greatest honors of my professional career,” said Deckerhoff. “I’ve had the fortune to form meaningful relationships with players, coaches and staff members as well as interact with thousands of Buccaneers fans everywhere in the world.

    “My wife, Ann, and I are grateful to the Glazer family for allowing us to be a part of the Buccaneers organization for so many wonderful years,” he said. “I am equally thankful to all the members of the radio crew and the partners I have had with me through the years — particularly Dave Moore, who has been by my side for the past 19 years. I will miss doing what I love, but now is the right time to step away.”

    Deckerhoff has spent 37 years calling Bucs games on the radio, with more than 800 games and 1,100 touchdowns.


    His “Touchdown, Tampa Bay!” line was used in two Super Bowl victories for the Bucs.

    Only two other announcers have spent more than 37 seasons with the same team.

    “For 37 seasons, Gene Deckerhoff’s voice has set the scene for the most iconic moments in our franchise’s history, and his signature calls will forever resonate with Buccaneers fans,” said Buccaneers Owner/Co-Chairman Bryan Glazer.

    “His passion, authenticity, and unmistakable voice created memories that have been cherished and enjoyed by countless generations of Buccaneers fans. As he closes out his extraordinary journey, we congratulate Gene on a remarkable broadcasting career and wish him a well-deserved and fulfilling retirement.”

    Deckerhoff retired from doing FSU sporting events in 2022.

    He turned 80 years old this year.

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Texas gets 41-27 Citrus Bowl win over Michigan in Orlando

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    ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Arch Manning made big plays with his arm and his legs Wednesday in the Citrus Bowl, throwing two touchdown passes and putting it away with a 60-yard scoring run in a 41-27 victory that ended a rough month for No. 14 Michigan.

    Manning was an easy choice as the Citrus Bowl MVP, and that was before he burst up the middle on his 60-yarder that gave the Longhorns (10-3) a 38-27 lead, the first time all game either team led by more than one score.

    Manning was 21 of 34 for 221 yards passing, and he ran nine times for 155 yards.

    He delivered a perfect throw to Kaliq Lockett on a 30-yard TD for a 31-27 lead, the first time Texas led since a field goal on its opening drive.

    That was one play after he scrambled 15 yards for a first down on fourth-and-2. Manning twice converted on fourth down with clutch runs, both times extending drives that led to touchdowns.

    Kyle Whittingham, who arrived in Orlando on Saturday to start meeting with players, watched from the box at the Citrus Bowl. The longtime Utah coach takes over a Michigan team (9-4) that produced a strong running game and played tough on defense despite missing its top two defenders who opted out of the game.

    But there was no answer for Manning, who accounted for about 80% of the Longhorns’ offense.

    Bryce Underwood, Michigan’s freshman quarter, kept the Wolverines in the game until a pair of late interceptions sealed it. He was 23 of 42 for 199 yards and two touchdowns, along with three interceptions in the last 18 minutes of the game.

    Underwood, who ran for 77 yards, scampered for a 5-yard touchdown run by diving to touch the pylon, giving Michigan its last lead at 27-24 with just under 11 minutes to go.

    Hisd pass was intercepted by Ty’Anthony Smith over the middle after Texas had taken the lead, and Smith picked him another along the sideline on the next drive.

    Biff Poggi lost for the first time as Michigan’s interim coach. Poggi coached victories over Nebraska and Central Michigan when former coach Sherrone Moore served a two-game suspension related to the sign-stealing scandal from 2023.

    Moore was fired three weeks ago for having an extramarital affair with a staffer, and he was arrested and charged with three crimes later in the day for breaking into the woman’s home.

    Whittingham brings a history of toughness and discipline from his 21 years at Utah, which Michigan hopes can go a long way toward bringing some stability to a culture in chaos.

    The Takeaway

    Michigan: Bryson Kuzdzal gave Michigan strength in the running with 82 hard-earned yards on 20 carries. He converted first downs on fourth-and short on three occasions.

    Texas: While Manning ran the show for the Longhorns, they got great production from freshman running back Christian Clark, who had one touchdown and rushed for 105 yards on 20 carries. Texas was without its leading three rushers, all of whom are entering the transfer portal.

    Too much yellow

    The field only looked like it was sprinkled with Cheez-It crackers from the bowl sponsor. Michigan and Texas combined for 21 penalties. The most devastating for Michigan was a blind side block on a second-and-2 from the Texas 10. Underwood threw an interception two players later.

    Up next

    Michigan: New coach Kyle Whittingham fills out his staff. The Wolverines open at home Sept. 5 against Western Michigan.

    Texas: Opens at home Sept. 5 against Texas State.

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    Associated Press

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