Why the Dolphins Must Resign Tua Tagoviloa this Off-season

By

-

March 23, 2024

skysports-tua-tagovailoa-miami-dolphins_6281154 — Photo Cred: Sky Sports

The unjust criticism directed at Tua Tagovailoa demands an immediate cessation, for it fails to acknowledge the remarkable transformation he has brought to the Miami Dolphins. To truly appreciate his impact, one must take a moment to reflect on what the Dolphins were before Tua’s arrival—a franchise mired in mediocrity, a perpetual resident of the league’s basement, and a laughingstock among NFL circles. Since stepping onto the professional football stage, Tua has been a winner.

Photo Cred: NBC Sports

Consider this: in every season of his tenure, Tua has managed to boast a winning record—an achievement not many quarterbacks can claim. Moreover, he has steered the Dolphins to consecutive playoff berths, missing the first due to an untimely injury. With an impressive 32-19 overall record under his belt, Tua has not only delivered victories but has also exhibited a brand of leadership and skill that has undeniably altered the course of Miami’s fortunes. Tua and Dolphins overall must overcome their lack of high level play against playoff teams. But becoming a league joke to playoff contenders in three years should be respected.

These victories, however, are made all the more impressive when one considers the circumstances when he entered the league. Tua won under a defensive-minded head coach in Brian Flores, showing resilience and determination even when not fully supported by the coaching staff. The recent arrival of new head coach Mike McDaniel has heralded a new era for the Dolphins, marked by an expansive and dynamic offensive approach that perfectly complements Tua’s strengths. Indeed, Tagovailoa emerged as a strong contender for the MVP title last season, further solidifying his status as one of the league’s top-tier quarterbacks.

Photo Cred: ESPN

In drawing comparisons, one cannot overlook another quarterback from Tua’s draft class—Justin Herbert. While undoubtedly talented with a formidable arm, Herbert has garnered considerable praise despite achieving comparatively lesser success. In his two winning seasons and one playoff appearance, Herbert also carries the weight of a monumental collapse, famously squandering a 27-7 halftime lead. The stark contrast in the perception of these two young quarterbacks raises valid questions about the fairness of the criticism directed at Tua.

The recent news of Justin Herbert’s five-year, $262.5 million contract extension is a stark reminder of the realities of the NFL landscape. It underscores the urgency with which the Miami Dolphins must act this offseason. Failing to secure Tua’s future now could potentially lead to a situation reminiscent of Dak Prescott’s protracted contract saga, where a delayed signing resulted in a hefty price tag down the line. Miami now faces a pivotal decision: to invest in the proven success and undeniable potential of Tua Tagovailoa immediately, or risk losing a franchise cornerstone to uncertain and costly negotiations in the future.

In conclusion, the criticism directed at Tua Tagovailoa is unwarranted and unjust, given his remarkable achievements and transformative impact on the Miami Dolphins. It is time for the detractors to recognize and appreciate the talent and leadership that Tua brings to the field and for the Dolphins organization to secure his future as the face of their franchise. Anything less would be a disservice to the player, the team, and the fans who have witnessed Tua’s rise to NFL stardom.

Kentucky Wildcats Suffer a Tough Loss against Oakland in the First Round of the NCAA Tournament

College

By

Megan Frey

-

March 22, 2024

0

KT_UK-vs-Oakland-NCAA_Matt-Freed-AP — Photo Cred: USA Today

Kentucky stepped on the court as a no.3 seed prepared to defeat their no.14 opponent. The game began as a narrative of confidence swiftly unraveled into an upsetting turnout as the Wildcats succumbed to a stinging defeat at the hands of Oakland. The scoreboard displayed an 80-76 upset. In the beginning half, the blue and white engaged in a close battle to keep up with Oakland intensity.

Photo Cred: WLKY

Rob Dillingham emerged to make a difference with his timely three point jumper with under four minutes left to play propelling his team to capture their first lead of the half. Despite their efforts to keep up, Kentucky’s lead, was quickly shut down by the Grizzlies competitive offense. Dillingham’s free throws toward the end of the first half narrowed the gap. It was Gohlkes and Watts who together contributed 5 points, putting them at the top as the halftime buzzer went off.

Going into the second half with Oakland on top, Kentucky rallied with determination to take control of the court. Their hopes were met with formidable resistance from Gohlkes, whose impressive three pointers kept the Wildcats fighting. Oakland’s success marked their first victory in the round of 64. Gohlkes led the Grizzlies with 10 three pointers for his remarkable 32 point game.

Photo Cred: USA Today

Although Kentucky tasted defeat, Reeves had tallying 27 points and six rebounds, and Mitchell added 14 points. Throughout the contest, the Blue and White worked to validate their legacy as they strived to match and surpass their opponents prowess on the court. This loss will led to questions about the if Coach Cal should still be UK’s coach.

2024 United Football League Rules

UFL

By

srapd

-

March 22, 2024

0

The UFL has adopted several innovative rules from both previous leagues to deliver an exciting, fast-paced game with plenty of action in 2024.

The UFL has adopted the XFL’s points after-touchdown options. Kickoffs will resemble the USFL’s more traditional-style play, with a modification moving the kickoff line back to the 20-yard line.

Slight modifications have been made to the rules that overlapped, including alternate possession options in the fourth quarter. Both leagues implemented opportunities in 2023 for teams that are trailing or if the scores are tied. In 2024, the UFL will offer a 4th-and-12 from the 28-yard line.

2024 UFL RULES HIGHLIGHTS

Points After Touchdown

Teams will have three scrimmage play (run/pass) options following a touchdown.

2-yard line = 1 point for a successful try
5-yard line = 2 points for a successful try
10-yard line = 3 points for a successful try

Kickoffs

Kickoffs will look like more traditional college/NFL kickoffs but will take place from the 20-yard line of the kicking team. A kickoff out of bounds will give possession to the receiving team 30 yards from the spot of the kickoff or at the spot where the ball went out of bounds. A kickoff that is untouched by the receiving team may only be recovered by the kicking team up to 20 yards from the spot of the kick.

Other Kicking/Touchback Rules

All touchbacks on kicks (punts or kickoffs) will be placed at the receiving team’s 25-yard line. Any punt that goes out of bounds inside the receiving team’s 25-yard line will be considered a touchback and placed at the 25-yard line. Non-kicking touchbacks will also be placed at the 25-yard line.

Alternate Possession Option

While onside kicks are allowed at any time during the game, teams will have an alternate option to retain possession in the fourth quarter. If a team is tied or behind during the fourth quarter, it may elect to retain possession after a score with a 4th-and-12 from its own 28-yard line.

Two Forward Passes

Teams will be allowed, as they were in both leagues last season, to throw two forward passes on one play. The ball cannot cross the line of scrimmage at any time prior to the second forward pass being thrown.

Catch Definition

A completed catch or interception is defined as a player securing control of the ball prior to the ball touching the ground; and touching the ground inbounds with both feet or with any part of his body other than his hands.

Defensive Pass Interference

Defensive pass interference will result in a 15-yard penalty or a spot foul if the foul occurred less than 15 yards downfield. Intentional defensive pass interference will result in a spot foul if it is beyond 15 yards downfield.

Replay Reviews

Designated members of the officiating department may stop a game at any time before the ball is next legally put in play to review a play if the play is reviewable, there is reasonable evidence to believe an error was made in the initial ruling and it would have a direct, competitive impact on the game. These reviews will be made from a secure location separate from the site of the game. Any call or non-call related to player safety is also subject to review at any point during the game, as well as any officiating ruling in the last five minutes of the fourth quarter or overtime that is obviously incorrect and will have a significant impact on the outcome of the game.

Coach Challenges

Each coach may challenge any ruling, including fouls or potential fouls, one time during the course of a contest, provided the team has a timeout remaining. A successful challenge will not result in a loss of a timeout, while the timeout is lost if the challenge is unsuccessful.

Overtime

Overtime will consist of alternating attempts to score from the opponent’s 5-yard line with no kicks allowed. It will be a best-of-three format or until a winner has been determined.

The rules are available for download in PDF format: UFL Rules 2024

Who Will Make the Final Four?

By

Jordan DeBusk

-

March 21, 2024

0

1500x500-750x487 — Photo Cred: USA Today

The journey to the Final Four in Phoenix, Arizona, has officially commenced! With the First Four matchups behind us, we pivot to the Round of 64, eagerly anticipating the exhilarating chaos that March Madness is known for. Predicting the victors is always a blend of science and speculation, but I’m here to offer my insights and reveal my Final Four predictions. While some picks might align with popular opinion, others could defy expectations. Let’s dive in:

East Region

A common choice for many bracketes is UCONN, the defending champions boasting the nation’s top offense and riding the momentum of a Big East Championship victory over Marquette. Yet, I’m inclined to bypass the obvious in favor of a team that’s been equally impressive: the Auburn Tigers.

Seeded fourth in the East, Auburn is distinguished by its dual prowess in KenPom’s top-10 adjusted offensive and defensive ratings, showcasing a remarkable margin of +28.87. Paced by first-team All-SEC forward Johni Broome, with an average of over 16 points and 8 rebounds per game, Auburn’s depth is notable—ten players averaging double-digit minutes and three posting double figures in scoring. Their momentum is undeniable, with a six-game winning streak crowned by an SEC Championship. When UCONN and Auburn potentially clash in the Sweet Sixteen, I foresee Auburn eclipsing the reigning champs and securing a spot in the Final Four.

South Region

The South boasts a mix of intriguing teams, from Big East runner-up Marquette, hoping for Tyler Kolek’s resurgence post-injury, to powerhouses like Duke and Kentucky, each with starting lineups where every player averages over 10 points. Despite such exciting challengers, I’ve decided to go with the top seed in the South, the Houston Cougars. Along with UCONN and Purdue, Houston has steadily been atop the college basketball rankings this season and have shown no signs of slowing down. Yet, it’s the top seed, the Houston Cougars, that catches my eye. With a defense limiting opponents to a mere 57 points per game and a seasoned lineup brimming with experience, Houston is primed to advance beyond last year’s Sweet Sixteen exit.

Midwest Region

With the likely back-to-back Wooden Award winner

in Zach Edey, the Boilermakers seem poised for a deep tourney run. The Midwest region teems with potential upsets, but the spotlight falls on Tennessee. The Volunteers, led by AP All-American and SEC Player of the Year Dalton Knecht, blend scoring prowess with a top-10 defensive rating. This combination positions them as a formidable contender for the Final Four. The number two seed in the Midwest has one of the best players in the region with the AP All-American and SEC Player of the Year, Dalton Knecht. The senior leads the Volunteers, averaging over 20 points per game and shooting 46.5% from the field this season.

West Region

The West is ripe for upheaval, and my prediction for a Cinderella story is New Mexico. The Lobos, fueled by the dynamic guard duo of Jamal Mashburn Jr. and Jaelen House, possess an explosive offense capable of toppling higher seeds. Despite the odds, I envision New Mexico navigating through challenges, including potential matchups against Baylor and possibly Arizona, to emerge from the West. Baylor defense allows over 70 points per game and ranks in the bottom half of the NCAA in rebounds per game with 35.3 a game. After that, many people would expect Arizona to come next, but I feel both Dayton and Nevada have the potential to beat the number two seed in the West.

Predicting the Final Four is an audacious task given the tournament’s unpredictability. However, these selections are poised to navigate the hurdles of the Round of 64 and beyond, embarking on a thrilling journey to Phoenix. Let the games begin!

Second Annual NFL Career Tours Kicks Off with Hidden Empire

By

Stephen Patrick

-

March 21, 2024

0

NFL Players Gain Valuable Experience from the Entertainment Industry

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — March 21, 2024 — The National Football League and Hidden Empire Film Group kicked off its second annual partnership in hosting the NFL Career Tours on Tuesday. Created by the NFL’s Player Engagement team, the NFL Career Tour is a professional development experience that provides current players and NFL Legends the opportunity to explore various industries by gaining exclusive access into major organizations while networking with industry executives.

“We are excited to provide this amazing experience for NFL players and Legends,” said NFL Senior Vice President of Player Operations Tracy Perlman. “Hidden Empire provides an opportunity that educates the attendees on every facet of the entertainment business. Their access to talent and entertainment executives also provides an additional networking opportunity for the group, which is a great resource.”

Following its tremendous success last year, the NFL and Hidden Empire Film Group have teamed up again to host the 2024 NFL x Hidden Empire Career Tour at the Hidden Empire Studio in Santa Monica, CA.

“I truly feel like this event in year two has become something everyone should read about and tap into,” said co-CEO of Hidden Empire, Roxanne Taylor. “It’s fresh, different, and an exciting way to build today’s athletes into tomorrow’s leaders in the film and television space.”

This unique three-day program offers comprehensive exploration of the entertainment industry, from educational sessions to hands-on workshops and in-depth camera training. Players will have the opportunity to learn from and work collaboratively with entertainment industry stars, including Michael Ealy, Demetrius Shipp Jr., Steven Caple Jr., Joe Carnahan, Kurt Wimmer, Charles Murray, Rodney Barnes, and many more.

“Our commitment to facilitating these athletes’ transition into their next chapter is unwavering, and we are overjoyed to provide them with this unparalleled opportunity to expand their horizons, embrace their creative passions, and chart a new course in their illustrious careers,” said co-CEO of Hidden Empire, Deon Taylor. “This collaboration underscores our dedication to nurturing talent and unlocking new possibilities, paving the way for these remarkable individuals to make an indelible mark in the world of entertainment.”

Day one of the three-day experience was a major success that included celebrity panelists such as Tyrese Gibson, Master P., and NFL Legends Vernon Davis and Ephraim Salaam. The panel sessions educated attendees on all aspects of the entertainment industry, including acting, producing, directing, writing, and distributing movies.

“I wanted to be here with this group of young men because I know what it is like to search for information and try to figure things out,” said NFL Legend Vernon Davis. “I was once that kid trying to prepare myself for life after football, because that is what it is all about. I want to do my part in giving back to these young guys by answering their questions and sharing my story with them.”

Attendees will put the knowledge gained into practice by shooting, producing, directing, and acting in a short film. All camera equipment for the workshop was sponsored by David Dodson of Panavision. The Career Tour will conclude with feedback about the short films and a discussion of how players can further explore their interest in the entertainment industry following the event.

About Hidden Empire:

Hidden Empire is a powerhouse in the entertainment industry, founded by the esteemed filmmaking duo, Deon Taylor and Roxanne Avent Taylor. With a strong belief in the value of cultural diversity, Hidden Empire Film Group (HEFG) has emerged as a next-generation media company that creates and distributes captivating, commercially successful content for a global multicultural audience.

The success of HEFG is a direct result of the team’s exceptional market understanding and creative ingenuity. Their track record speaks volumes about their commitment to excellence and their ability to navigate the ever-evolving entertainment landscape. HEFG’s diverse company portfolio includes Hidden Empire Films, their flagship film and television development and production business. Additionally, they have HEFG Releasing, an independent film distribution and content sales company, which ensures projects reach audiences worldwide.

The following 21 current players and Legends participated in the Career Tour on March 19-21.

TEAM	PLAYER
Seattle Seahawks	DK Metcalf
New England Patriots	Pharaoh Brown
Tennessee Titans	Shyheim Carter
Carolina Panthers	Jeremy Chinn
Dallas Cowboys	Chuma Edoga
Atlanta Falcons	Khadarel Lott
New York Jets	Jalyn Holmes
Washington Commanders	Joshua Kalu
Los Angeles Chargers	Joshua Kelley
Minnesota Vikings	William Kwenkeu
Atlanta Falcons	Andre Smith
NFL Legend	Toddrick Verdell
NFL Legend	LeDarius Wiley
Pittsburgh Steelers	Markus Golden
Free Agent	Keelan Doss
NFL Legend	Chester Pitts
NFL Legend	Rocket Ismail
NFL Legend	Robert Turbin
NFL Legend	Dante Hall
NFL Legend	Elijah Dotson
Los Angeles Chargers	Daiyan Henley

Shohei Ohtani’s Interpreter Fired After Theft Allegations

By

Alex Surat

-

March 21, 2024

0

Dodgers_Ohtani_Interpreter_Baseball_78902-66c09 — Photo Cred: USA Today

In a startling development, Ippei Mizuhara, the interpreter for baseball star Shohei Ohtani, has been implicated in a theft involving millions of dollars from an unidentified Los Angeles Dodgers player. The Dodgers have terminated Mizuhara’s employment amid these allegations, which are part of a broader gambling scandal shaking the sports world. The scandal, still under wraps in terms of detailed information and the involved Dodgers player’s identity, reportedly involves at least $4.5 million transferred from the player’s account to a California bookmaker currently under federal scrutiny.

Photo Cred: NBC News

Mizuhara’s alleged involvement has cast a shadow over his tenure as Ohtani’s trusted interpreter, sparking concerns within the baseball community over the dangers of illicit gambling and its potential effects on players and their entourages. As the investigation unfolds, the extent of Mizuhara’s alleged theft and its impact on both Ohtani and the unnamed Dodgers player are yet to be fully understood. Mizuhara, known for his work with Ohtani and other Japanese baseball luminaries, has yet to have the specifics of his alleged theft and involvement in gambling activities clarified.

Notably, these accusations are not directly connected to his professional responsibilities as an interpreter. Authorities are actively investigating the case, focusing on the gambling operations and Mizuhara’s alleged role. The identity of the victimized Japanese baseball player remains undisclosed amid the ongoing probe, which continues to unravel, potentially offering more clarity on the situation and its ramifications for Mizuhara’s career and his relationships within MLB.

Potential Upsets to Watch for in March Madness

College

By

Augustus Oswald

-

March 21, 2024

0

73011567007-USP-NCAA-Basketball_-NCAA-Tournament-First-Round-S — Photo Cred: USA Today

No. 13 Samford Bulldogs vs. No. 4 Kansas Jayhawks, Thursday, 9:55 p.m. ET, TBS

The Bulldogs finished first in the Southern Conference this season with a record of 29-5 and 15-3 in the SoCon. They won their conference tournament to clinch their first NCAA tournament appearance since 2000 and third overall. The Bulldogs have junior forward Achor Achor, who averages 15.8 points per game, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.5 assists, leading Samford in both points and rebounds. Utah State transfer guard Rylan Jones averages 9.4 points per game and leads the Bulldogs with 4.9 assists per game. Samford ranks 70th in adjusted offensive efficiency and 116th in adjusted defensive efficiency, according to KenPom.

The Jayhawks had one of their worst seasons in conference play under Bill Self, finishing 22-10 and 10-8 in the Big 12 for a 6th place finish. Kansas boasts one of the best starting lineups in the country but has lacked depth throughout the season. Their depth will be tested, with senior guard Kevin McCullar Jr. will miss the entire NCAA tournament with a knee bone bruise. McCullar Jr. leads the Jayhawks with 18.3 points per game, 6.0 rebounds and 4.1 assists. However, senior center Hunter Dickinson will return from a dislocated shoulder that sidelined him for the Big 12 tournament. Kansas will rely on his 18.0 points per game and 10.8 rebounds.

Starting point guard Dajuan Harris Jr. has also been solid for Kansas, averaging 8.3 points per game, shooting 43.0% overall and 37.9% from three, and 6.3 assists per game, which ranks 12th in the nation. Harris Jr. has also been a key defensive player, averaging 1.5 steals per game. However, there is a significant drop-off to the Kansas bench. Guards Nick Timberlake and Elmarko Jackson are usually the first two players off the bench for Kansas and average 4.7 points per game and 4.2 points per game, respectively. In games without McCullar Jr. this season, the Jayhawks experienced scoring droughts, resulting in their only home loss, 76-68 against BYU on Feb. 27, and a 72-52 loss against Cincinnati in the Big 12 tournament.

Kansas ranks 67th in adjusted offensive efficiency and 10th in adjusted defensive efficiency. The Bulldogs, under head coach Bucky McMillan, play a fast-paced brand of basketball nicknamed “Bucky Ball,” leading them to an average of 86 points per game, which ranks fifth nationally. They also have four starters shooting above 36% from three-point range, led by Achor, who shoots 44.6%. If the Bulldogs can accelerate the pace against the Jayhawks and capitalize on transition opportunities, they have a real chance at upsetting Kansas and disrupting many brackets.

No. 11 NC State Wolfpack vs. No. 6 Texas Tech Red Raiders, Thursday, 9:40 p.m. ET, CBS

The Wolfpack (22-14 overall, 9-11 ACC) were not poised to make the NCAA tournament as an at-large team and had to win the ACC tournament as the No. 10 seed to secure a spot. Miraculously, they won five games in five days, including victories over the No. 2 seed Duke Blue Devils, No. 3 seed Virginia Cavaliers, and No. 1 seed North Carolina Tar Heels in the ACC championship. Heading into the ACC tournament, the Wolfpack had lost four of their last five regular-season games. They are led by senior guard DJ Horne, averaging 16.9 points per game, shooting 44.2% overall and 41.3% from three, along with 3.2 rebounds and 2.1 assists.

Center DJ Burns Jr., standing 6’9″ and weighing 275 pounds, poses a matchup challenge for opponents in the paint, averaging 12.4 points per game while shooting 51.7% overall, with 4.0 rebounds. NC State ranks 47th in adjusted offensive efficiency but only 91st in adjusted defensive efficiency, giving up an average of 72.7 points per game to opponents, according to KenPom. The Red Raiders had a solid year in the Big 12, finishing 4th with a record of 23-10 and 11-7 in the Big 12. They are led by sophomore guard Pop Isaacs, averaging 15.9 points per game and 3.5 assists, and senior guard Joe Toussaint, averaging 12.1 points per game and 4.3 assists.

Texas Tech boasts significant wins this season, including a 79-50 victory over Kansas at home on Feb. 12 and an 81-67 win against BYU in the Big 12 tournament quarterfinals on Mar. 12. The Red Raiders have been effective, on both ends of the court this season, ranking 23rd in adjusted offensive efficiency and 48th in adjusted defensive efficiency according to KenPom. The Red Raiders have had a superior season and possess better metrics. The Wolfpack’s recent five-game winning streak can’t be overlooked. If NC State can maintain its momentum led by Horne and Burns Jr., they could upset the Red Raiders and become a contender for the Sweet Sixteen.

No. 11 New Mexico Lobos vs. No. 6 Clemson Tigers, Friday, 3:10 p.m. ET, truTV

Similar to the Wolfpack, the Lobos would not have made the tournament as an at-large team, so they won the Mountain West tournament, defeating fellow tournament teams Boise State, Colorado State, and San Diego State in the Mountain West championship to secure their first NCAA tournament appearance since 2014. The Lobos have three guards who can quickly light up the scoreboard. Senior Jaelen House averages 16.1 points per game, shooting 37.7% overall and 33.1% from three, with 3.6 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game.

House dominated the Mountain West tournament, scoring 29 points in the quarterfinals against Boise State, 19 in the semis against CSU, and 28 in the championship against SDSU. Senior Jamal Mashburn Jr. averages 14.4 points per game, shooting 36.8% overall and 33.3% from three-point range. Sophomore Donovan Dent averages 14.3 points per game, shooting 52.3% overall and 37.5% from three, ranking 29th in the nation with 5.6 assists per game. Dent has scored over 20 points in eight games this season. Freshman JT Toppin has also been a solid contributor for the Lobos, averaging 12.5 points per game and 9.0 rebounds.

March Madness 2024’s Most Likely First-Round Upsets

By

Arnav Sarkar

-

March 21, 2024

0

SP_March_Madness_Turner_CBS — Photo Cred: Sportico.com

March Madness is definitely one of the biggest sports competitions of the year. During the first and second rounds, games take place from early afternoon into the night. With multiple games on every channel, it signifies the beginning of one of the best postseason tournaments in all of sports! One thing that March Madness is known for is the upsets. Millions of college basketball fans fill out brackets predicting who will advance and win the tournament. However, most (if not all) brackets are quickly busted by a few surprise upsets by lower seeds over much higher ones.

Photo Cred: Variety

Some popular examples are #16 Fairleigh Dickinson over #1 Purdue (2023), #16 UMBC over #1 Virginia (2018), and #15 St. Peter’s knocking off #2 Kentucky before defeating Murray State and Purdue (2022). The Peacocks advanced all the way to the Elite Eight before falling to championship runners-up North Carolina. This year, while there might be a surprise upset by a 15th or 16th seed, many other games loom large as potential upset picks. Here are some of the top upset picks for the opening round of March Madness.

#9 Northwestern over #8 Florida Atlantic

Starting with an intriguing #8 vs. #9 matchup, this wouldn’t necessarily be the biggest upset, as no. 9 seeds actually have a 78-74 all-time record against the slightly favored 8th seeds. This game jumps out for a few reasons. Florida Atlantic made a Cinderella run to the Final Four as a nine-seed last year but has taken a step back this season. The Owls finished second in their conference and lost to #11 Temple in the American Athletic Conference tournament semifinals. FAU’s highlight of the season was a neutral-court win over #2 Arizona. However, they also lost to unranked teams such as Bryant, FGCU, and Charlotte.

Photo Cred: Sporting News

Meanwhile, Northwestern has been a much more consistent team this season, finishing with a 21-11 record in the tough Big Ten conference. They had a home win over #1 Purdue and came close to defeating the Boilermakers a second time in West Lafayette, falling 105-96 in overtime. A shocking loss to lowly Chicago State was a blemish for the Wildcats, but that game was three months ago and Northwestern has played much more consistent basketball as of late. This game could go either way, but I wouldn’t be surprised if Northwestern knocks off an over-seeded Florida Atlantic Owls team riding the glory of last year’s Final Four run into a season where they haven’t been as successful overall.

#10 Nevada over #7 Dayton

Moving to a #7 vs. #10 matchup, Nevada against Dayton is another intriguing upset possibility. The Mountain West was a very competitive league this season, sending six teams to the tournament. On the other hand, Dayton boasted a 24-7 record but finished third in the Atlantic 10 conference behind Loyola Chicago and Richmond. Those teams ended up in the NIT instead. Furthermore, Dayton fell to Duquesne in the A-10 quarterfinals and failed to defeat an at-large team selected for March Madness. The Flyers fell three times in their last seven games, while Nevada ended up as the #2 seed in the Mountain West by winning seven games in a row before their loss to #7 Colorado State. Nevada looks more likely to bounce back and is currently favored by 1.5 points, indicating a high chance for a first-round upset.

Photo Cred: Sporting News

#10 Drake over #7 Washington State

In another #7 vs. #10 matchup, Drake takes on Washington State in a battle of teams looking to make an unexpected run. WSU won 10 out of 12 games and swept #2 seed Arizona, while Drake won a competitive Missouri Valley Conference tournament. The Bulldogs defeated at-large contender Indiana State in the championship game to earn a March Madness bid. Drake looks to keep the momentum going as 1.5-point underdogs. They have a more recent tournament history, winning a First Four matchup in 2021 and falling to Miami (a team that reached the Final Four) last season. Star guard Tucker DeVries averages nearly 22 points, so the team’s high-flying offense should be good enough to keep up with the efficiency of the Cougars.

Photo Cred: Sporting News

#11 New Mexico over #6 Clemson

Fresh off a Mountain West tournament championship, New Mexico only managed the #11 seed as they battle the Clemson Tigers in the opening round of March Madness. Clemson finished with a 21-11 record and fifth in the ACC en route to a sixth seed valuation after narrowly missing the tournament last year. However, the Lobos defeated the top teams in the conference tournament, including a win over national runners-up San Diego State, to bring some momentum into their first-round game. The Tigers took a hefty loss against Boston College, falling in the ACC tournament’s opening round, so they are currently 2.5-point underdogs in this matchup. With four players in double figures for New Mexico, expect the Lobos to take down the Tigers and help prove why the Mountain West was disrespected by the selection committee.

Photo Cred: Sporting News

#11 NC State over #6 Texas Tech

Next up in a #6 vs. #11 matchup, the #11 NC State Wolfpack battle the Texas Tech Red Raiders in the Round of 64. NC State went on a miraculous run in the ACC tournament, winning five games in five days to capture an ACC championship and an automatic bid to the Big Dance. The Wolfpack took down some of the top teams in the conference along the way, upsetting Duke, Virginia, and #1 seed UNC in consecutive days. They rode stellar play from guard DJ Horne and center DJ Burns among several other key players.

Photo Cred: Sporting News

Texas Tech finished fourth in the rugged Big 12 conference behind top tournament teams such as Houston, Iowa State, and Baylor. Pop Issacs and Joe Toussaint are one of the top shooting guard duos in the nation, with some top-notch defense in the backcourt. The Red Raiders are 5.5-point favorites against NC State, however, riding the high of their ACC championship. There is still a chance the Wolfpack continue their magical run and win at least one tournament game before bowing out.

#12 McNeese St. over #5 Gonzaga

In the upset-heavy #5 vs. #12 matchup, McNeese State vs. Gonzaga has a very interesting feel to it. The Cowboys boast a 30-3 record, including a win over Big Ten program Michigan. Meanwhile, Gonzaga made it back to March Madness for the 25th straight season, this time as the West Coast Conference runners-up. The Bulldogs finished second in the conference after splitting the regular season series with St. Mary’s, but they did boast ranked road wins over #3 seed Kentucky and the aforementioned Gaels.

Photo Cred: Sporting News

Gonzaga has more size and tournament experience, though, as they reached the Sweet 16 or further nine years in a row under head coach Mark Few. However, McNeese is a great three-point shooting team, making nearly 39% of their threes. Additionally, they have a plus-6.7 turnover margin, which ranks third in the nation. Both teams play an up-tempo style of basketball with stout defense and exciting offenses. If the Cowboys can shoot well from long distance and win the turnover battle as they usually do, McNeese can be a trendy upset pick. They have an opportunity to pull one of the biggest stunners of the tournament and knock out a perennial powerhouse in Gonzaga.

#12 James Madison over #5 Wisconsin

Another trendy upset pick is James Madison over Wisconsin, and there is a lot to like about this prediction. JMU boasts a 31-3 record, including a season-opening win over tournament-bound Michigan State. They also had a 13-game win streak en route to a Sun Belt championship victory. Wisconsin had a strong start to the season, including a win against in-state rival Marquette, but then had a four-game losing streak that featured losses to two bottom-two teams in the Big Ten, Michigan and Rutgers.

Photo Cred: Sporting News

The Badgers recently regained their early-season form, knocking off #1 Purdue in the Big Ten tournament before falling to Illinois in the Big Ten title game. Still, it is hard for viewers to tell which Wisconsin team will show up for March Madness, while the Dukes have been more consistent all season long. They even have a win over a Big Ten team currently in the dance! As one of the top upset picks of the tournament, look out for James Madison to knock off Wisconsin and likely battle with the Duke Blue Devils in the second round.

#13 Samford over #4 Kansas

We conclude with what would be the biggest upset out of all of these games! National powerhouse Kansas battles Samford in a #4 vs. #13 matchup to open their tournaments. The Kansas Jayhawks will be without star guard Kevin McCullar Jr., who is battling a nagging knee injury, while star center Hunter Dickinson is also questionable for this matchup. It will be up to the guard duo of Nicolas Timberlake and Elmarko Jackson to step up in his place.

Photo Cred: Sporting News

Meanwhile, the Samford Bulldogs are coming off a 29-5 record and a Southern Conference championship. The Bulldogs have a top offense and have elite three-point shooters at every position. They score efficiently inside the arc and have excellent depth. Although Samford lost handily in an away game against #1 Purdue, the Jayhawks not having McCullar and possibly Dickinson should bode well for their upset chances. If there’s any year for the undersized Samford to knock off one of the nation’s best teams and make a March Madness run, it’s this one!

Three Upsets to Watch Out for in the First Weekend of March Madness

College

By

Jordan DeBusk

-

March 20, 2024

0

15402410-e2e4-11ee-bfb3-a779e0d26e29 — Photo Cred: Yahoo Sports

After a tumultuous regular season of college hoops, March Madness is finally upon us—time to savor the moment. From now until the National Championship on April 8, it’s the era for legends to emerge, stories to unfold, and hopefully, a few monumental upsets along the way. This is what the NCAA Tournament is all about—chaos and the unforeseen. Each year, we witness a new Cinderella story, whether it’s a stunning upset in the first round like last year’s 16th-seeded Fairleigh Dickinson taking down top-seeded Purdue, or the magical Final Four run of UCLA in 2021, starting as an 11 seed and from the first four play-in games.

It’s these moments that make the sport and the tournament so captivating—the chance for underdogs to topple giants. Last year’s tournament showcased the FDU upset and an Elite Eight devoid of any top-seeded teams. The highest-seeded team in the Final Four, UConn, emerged as a 4th seed from the West region. While last year set a high bar, this postseason promises excitement and unpredictability, stemming from a topsy-turvy regular season where over 50 schools found themselves ranked in the AP Top 25 poll. As mentioned earlier, in March Madness, expect the unexpected. Here are a few potential upsets in the first round to keep a close eye on:

Samford over Kansas

Photo Cred: Sporting News

This upset pick has gained popularity due to recent news of an injury to Kansas star Kevin McCullar Jr. The leading scorer for the Jayhawks has missed six of their last 12 games due to a nagging knee bone bruise. McCullar Jr. earned first-team All-Big 12 honors for his stellar season, and now, Kansas must find a way to fill his void. This challenge is compounded by the Jayhawks’ struggles in generating points off the bench. Enter the 13th-seeded Samford Bulldogs, a team ranked in the top 10 for turnovers forced, playing a fast-paced style that could leave Jayhawks defenders trailing.

With a tempo akin to that of Kentucky and Alabama, Samford aims to dictate the game’s speed and potentially push Kansas into a high-scoring affair. The Bulldogs boast a top-10 scoring offense, averaging 86 points per game and shooting nearly 40% from beyond the arc. Had McCullar Jr. been in play, the outcome might differ, as Kansas boasts a top-15 defense in field-goal percentage allowed. However, without McCullar Jr.’s scoring prowess to match Samford’s rapid offense, an early exit for the Jayhawks seems likely this March.

McNeese State over Gonzaga

Welcome back to the big dance, Will Wade! The former LSU coach has redeemed himself in the eyes of college basketball fans after his dismissal in early 2022 due to recruiting violations. In today’s world of Name, Image, Likeness (NIL), coaches have more flexibility in financially incentivizing players to join their programs—an arena where Wade excels. Wade has transformed a McNeese State team that went 11-23 the previous year into a dominant force, clinching the Southland conference championship with a remarkable 30-3 record.

A key addition to this turnaround was senior transfer Shahada Wells from TCU, leading the Cowboys in scoring with 17.8 points per game on over 47% shooting. Wells also shines defensively, averaging three steals per game. Defensively, McNeese State poses a significant threat, ranking in the top 3 nationally for turnover margin, trailing only Houston and Iowa State.

Similar to Samford, the Cowboys excel at forcing turnovers, averaging over 16 per game. However, they play at a slower pace. While Gonzaga boasts a potent offense, ranking top 10 in the nation for points per game (83.6) and top 3 in offensive rating (120.2), McNeese State’s style might disrupt Gonzaga’s rhythm. This matchup could swing either way, but I’m leaning toward the Cowboys and their exceptional turnover margin for a first-round victory.

New Mexico over Clemson

Photo Cred: Sporting News

Is it truly an upset if the lower-seeded team is favored by 2.5 points over the higher seed? I believe so—just look at the seeds! Clemson started strong with an 11-1 record but faltered to a .500 finish, ending the season with 10 wins and 10 losses. Conversely, New Mexico closed the year on a high note, winning four straight games, including victories against three NCAA tournament teams, and clinching the Mountain West title. The dynamic guard duo of Jamal Mashburn Jr. and Jaelen House poses a formidable challenge for a Clemson defense ranking near the bottom half of Division 1 with a defensive rating of 104.9.

New Mexico forces over 14 turnovers per game and boasts a top-10 turnover margin of 4.2. I see potential for New Mexico to make a Sweet Sixteen run, especially if they face an average defense like Baylor in the second round. While these are my top three upset picks, a few others bear mention: Oregon over South Carolina, Drake over Washington State, James Madison over Wisconsin, and Charleston over Alabama. Each of these matchups holds upset potential, particularly with their aggressive defenses capable of turning turnovers into points.

Now, let the madness begin.

2024 SEC Baseball: Alabama

By

Memphis Spence

-

March 20, 2024

0

An Alabama squad won 43 games and finished fourth in the SEC West before advancing to the Super Regionals, only to fall to Wake Forest 2-0 in the series. They hosted their own regional in 2024 with a new coach, aiming to overcome that hurdle and reach Omaha. However, the team faced significant losses on both sides following the 2023 season. In the draft, the Tide said goodbye to six players, including two top infield prospects and one pitching prospect.

Photo Cred: USA Today

Among those departing were Andrew Pinckney, who boasted a .339 batting average with 15 home runs last year, Grayson Hitt, a top starter recovering from injury, and Jim Jarvis, who started all 64 games in 2023. Additionally, several players transferred to different schools. Key starter Luke Holman, with 15 starts and a 3.67 ERA, and Colby Shelton, who hit 25 homers as a freshman, were notable names among those who entered the transfer portal. The team also bid farewell to graduates Tommy Seidl, leading with a .355 average in 60 games, Ed Johnson, third with a .315 average in 60 games, and Jacob McNairy, boasting 17 starts on the mound.

Looking at the lineup, Alabama will feature some familiar faces alongside new additions. Among the returning players expected to take on larger roles are infielder Will Hodo, who played 39 games in 2023, Mac Guscette, with 48 starts, and Bryce Eblin, who started 40 games. The Tide benefitted from the transfer portal after the 2023 season, acquiring players such as Rutgers-transfer Evan Sleight, Bishop State-transfer Gage Miller, and Maryland-transfer Ian Petrutz, all anticipated to assume significant roles immediately.

Photo Cred: Alabama

The lineup also bids farewell to everyday starter Drew Williamson due to graduation, leaving a gap to fill. Another addition is Ole Miss-transfer TJ McCants, joining to bolster the lineup. Notably, top 10 Florida shortstop Justin Lebron arrives as a freshman, set to have an immediate impact on the infield. On the pitching side, Alabama faces fewer uncertainties compared to their lineup, with several returning players for 2024 and strong additions from the transfer portal and freshman class.

Leading the pack is D1Baseball.com’s third-team preseason pitcher Ben Hess, who started seven games in 2023 with a 3.22 ERA. The returning pitchers, including key bullpen arms Alton Davis II, Riley Quick, and Braylon Myers, are expected to be the backbone of the staff. New faces such as Louisville-transfer Greg Farone, Wofford-transfer Coulson Buchanan, Texas-transfer Pierce George, and redshirt freshman Tyler Fay will further strengthen the pitching crew for the 2024 season.

.st0{fill:#FFFFFF;} .st1{fill:#E52E2E;} Sports Radio America

Hot topics

Finance

Marketing

Politics

Strategy

Hot topics

Finance

Marketing

Politics

Strategy

2024 UFL RULES HIGHLIGHTS

East Region

South Region

Midwest Region

West Region

#9 Northwestern over #8 Florida Atlantic

#10 Nevada over #7 Dayton

#10 Drake over #7 Washington State

#11 New Mexico over #6 Clemson

#11 NC State over #6 Texas Tech

#12 McNeese St. over #5 Gonzaga

#12 James Madison over #5 Wisconsin

#13 Samford over #4 Kansas

Samford over Kansas

McNeese State over Gonzaga

New Mexico over Clemson

Company

Headlines

Newsletter

Sports Radio America