Flag Football Highlighted Through Events and Activations Across San Francisco Bay AreaNew Global Flag Ambassadors Unveiled, Led by Hall of Fame QB Steve YoungNEW YORK – Jan. 22, 2026 – Flag football will take center stage during Super Bowl LX week in the San Francisco Bay Area, celebrating the sport’s explosive growth and global reach ahead of its Olympic debut at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. Super Bowl week flag football events will highlight the fast-paced and inclusive sport through a variety of events and activations, including a showdown between the sport’s top athletes, youth clinics, fan events, and much more. Ahead of Super Bowl LX, the International Federation of American Football (IFAF) and the NFL are also proud to announce the newest cohort of Global Flag Ambassadors, led by Hall of Fame quarterback and San Francisco 49ers legend Steve Young. Global Flag Ambassadors play a critical role in inspiring the next generation of athletes and expanding flag football globally, and members from this year’s class will take part in flag football activations around Super Bowl LX. Flag Football Events During Super Bowl LX Week Throughout Super Bowl LX week, the Bay Area will host a variety of flag football activations designed to engage fans and communities. 2026 NFL Flag International Championship Tuesday, Feb. 3 at 2:30 p.m. PT, Flag Fieldhouse at Moscone Center South — Hall C The 2026 NFL Flag International Championship will bring together top U13 co-ed teams from 14 countries to compete in a three-day tournament, culminating in an exciting championship game on Tuesday, Feb. 3 at the NFL Flag Fieldhouse at Super Bowl Experience at Moscone Center’s North Building. This is one of the largest international NFL Flag competitions to date, with teams and athletes from Austria, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Great Britain, Ireland, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Panama, and Spain participating. NFL Flag Girls High School Showcase Tuesday, Feb. 3 at 3:30 p.m. PT, Flag Fieldhouse at Moscone Center South — Hall C As part of Super Bowl week celebrations, the NFL will host a showcase for the second year in a row of the nation’s top girls high school flag football athletes. Thirty-two seniors from high schools across the country, nominated by NFL clubs and selected from teams ranked in the USA TODAY Sports Super 25, will compete in a matchup of the country’s premier flag football talent – mirroring the set-up of this year’s Pro Bowl Games. This event will air live during Postseason NFL Countdown on ESPN, beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET, as part of its Pro Bowl Games pregame show, and streamed on the ESPN App, Disney+, SportsCenter Next’s YouTube channel and the NFL’s YouTube channel. Pro Bowl Games Presented by Verizon Tuesday, Feb. 3 at 5:00 p.m. PT, Flag Fieldhouse at Moscone Center South — Hall C For the first time, the 2026 Pro Bowl Games powered by Verizon will move to Super Bowl LX Week in the San Francisco Bay Area. The event brings the league’s top players together for an AFC vs. NFC flag football showdown, which will preview the elite athleticism and competition of the sport ahead of its LA28 Olympics debut. The revamped programming gives the league’s best athletes an opportunity to compete during the NFL’s biggest week of the year, surrounded by their families, friends and select fans, and provides all fans with a must-see TV event that helps culminate the end of the season. The televised event will air live from the NFL Flag Fieldhouse at Super Bowl Experience in San Francisco on Tuesday, Feb. 3, which will be transformed into a dynamic flag football arena. Coverage of the Pro Bowl Games powered by Verizon will begin on ESPN starting at 6:30 p.m. ET with the flag game at 8 p.m. ET. The game will air on ESPN, Disney XD and ESPN Deportes. Toyota Glow Up Classic Wednesday, Feb. 4 at 6 p.m. PT, Flag Fieldhouse at Moscone Center South — Hall C The Toyota Glow Up Classic returns at Super Bowl LX at NFL Flag Fieldhouse where the games future – Females in Flag – will be spotlighted during this first-of-it-kind glow-in-the-dark flag football showdown. The game gathers the Bay Area’s top high school female athletes in a unique competition under UV lights and in glowing jerseys and gear in a one-of-a-kind spectacle. Team Toyota athletes will serve as mentors with Eli Manning, Brock Purdy, Christian Gonzales, Puka Nacua, Michael Pittman, Kyle Hamilton, and Jordan Love currently scheduled to appear. The second annual event is open to fans with Super Bowl Experience tickets. Toyota will also leave a lasting legacy after Super Bowl LX ends by supporting the installation of lighting at the Townsend Busher Field renovation project in Santa Clara. USA vs. Mexico Flag Football Showcase Presented by Toyota Thursday, Feb. 5 at 4 p.m. PT, Flag Fieldhouse at Moscone Center South — Hall C Fans will get an up-close look at flag football’s fast-paced, creative, and dynamic style when North America’s top athletes face off in an exhibition match. The USA Men’s National Flag Football Team will take on Mexico’s Men’s National Team, marking their first meeting since 2023. Both programs are reigning IFAF Americas Continental Co-Champions and will showcase the sport ahead of its Olympic debut at Los Angeles 2028. Selected, trained and led by USA Football, the USA Men’s National Flag Football team and star quarterback Darrell “Housh” Doucette III sit atop the IFAF World Rankings, while Mexico ranks third, setting the stage for an epic clash between two of the sport’s best teams. The game will air live on the NFL’s YouTube channel. Super Bowl LX Flag Football Game on YouTube Saturday, Feb. 7 at 7 p.m. PT, Flag Fieldhouse at Moscone Center South — Hall C Building on the success of the inaugural Super Bowl LIX Flag Football Game on YouTube, the league is bringing the excitement back to Super Bowl Experience with a flag football showdown at the NFL Flag Football Fieldhouse, on Saturday, Feb. 7, ahead of Super Bowl Sunday. Showcasing the NFL’s commitment to growing flag football globally and connecting with fans worldwide, the flag football game brings together top talent from across sports, music and YouTube, with the action kicking off at 7:00 p.m. PT and streaming live exclusively on YouTube. Global Flag Ambassadors Ahead of Super Bowl LX, IFAF and the NFL are excited to introduce its newest cohort of Global Flag Ambassadors. This diverse group of athletes will champion flag football’s growth across domestic and international markets, promoting the sport’s accessibility for all. Leading the charge is Steve Young, Hall of Fame quarterback and San Francisco 49ers icon, whose passion for the game and commitment to youth sports make him an ideal Global Flag Ambassador. “Being named a Global Flag Ambassador is an honor, especially as the world’s attention turns to the Bay Area during Super Bowl LX,” said NFL Hall of Famer and San Francisco 49ers legend Steve Young. “Flag football represents the future expansion of our sport – fast, inclusive, and accessible, creating unprecedented opportunities for ALL athletes around the world, a game where women and girls are claiming their space. Coaching my daughters’ high school flag football team has shown me how powerful this game can be in shaping confidence, leadership, and a sense of belonging. I’m committed to using my voice to help expand flag football globally and ensure the next generation of competitors see a place for themselves in this game.” Global Flag Ambassadors will play a key role in promoting the game throughout Super Bowl week. Global Flag Ambassador activations include Vanita Krouch, a member of the United States women’s national flag football team, who will serve as a team captain at the NFL Flag Girls High School Showcase and also participated in the Showcase’s selection committee. Global Flag Ambassadors from international markets, such as Diana Flores, Phoebe Schecter, Gabi Bankhardt and Kodie Fuller, will also participate in various league events throughout the week, including Super Bowl Opening Night and the Pro Bowl Games. This year’s Global Flag Ambassador cohort includes:
Flag football is one of the fastest growing sports in the world, with 20 million players worldwide, and will make its Olympic debut in Los Angeles in 2028. Recently, NFL clubs voted to support financially the development and launch of a professional flag football league. In addition, the NCAA recently approved the addition of flag football to the Emerging Sports for Women program, an important step in establishing flag as a varsity women’s sport across the NCAA. Flag football is now offered for girls at the high school level in 38 states, and over 100 colleges and universities have women’s flag football programs. Media Contact: Ian Martin, Ian.Martin@nfl.com |
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Flag Football Takes Center Stage During Super Bowl LX Week
Green Day to Kick Off Super Bowl LX with Opening Ceremony Celebrating 60 Years of Super Bowl History
| Hometown Grammy Award-Winning Global Superstar Rock Band Will Honor Generations of Super Bowl MVPs While Welcoming Fans Worldwide to Bay Area
NEW YORK — Jan. 18, 2026 — The NFL announced that global superstar rock band Green Day will open Super Bowl LX with a high-energy opening ceremony celebrating Super Bowl’s 60th anniversary at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., on Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026. As part of the NFL milestone, East Bay-native Grammy Award-winning rock band Green Day, featuring Billie Joe Armstrong, Mike Dirnt and Tré Cool, will open Super Bowl LX by ushering generations of Super Bowl MVPs onto the field with a dynamic performance of their most iconic rock anthems. The Super Bowl LX opening ceremony will air live at 3:00pm PT on NBC, Telemundo, Peacock and Universo, transforming the stadium, blending music, football and Bay Area culture into a kickoff celebration for fans. “We are super hyped to open Super Bowl 60 right in our backyard!” said Green Day lead singer Billie Joe Armstrong. “We are honored to welcome the MVPs who’ve shaped the game and open the night for fans all over the world. Let’s have fun! Let’s get loud!” “Celebrating 60 years of Super Bowl history with Green Day as a hometown band, while honoring the NFL Legends who’ve helped define this sport is an incredibly powerful way to kick off Super Bowl LX.” said Tim Tubito, NFL senior director, event and game presentation. “As we work alongside NBC Sports for this opening ceremony, we look forward to creating a collective celebration for fans in the stadium and around the world.” The Super Bowl LX opening ceremony will take place ahead of the previously announced pregame entertainment lineup, featuring Charlie Puth, Brandi Carlile and Coco Jones. Puth will perform the national anthem, Carlile will sing “America the Beautiful,” and Jones will deliver “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” ABOUT GREEN DAY Formed in 1986 in Berkeley, Calif., Green Day (Billie Joe Armstrong, Mike Dirnt, Tré Cool) is one of the world’s best-selling bands of all time, with 14 studio albums released, more than 75 million records sold worldwide, and 20 billion cumulative streams. The five-time GRAMMY® Award-winning Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees released their breakout album Dookie in 1994, which sold over 10 million and achieved 10x Platinum Diamond status, and is widely credited with popularizing and reviving mainstream interest in punk rock, catapulting a career-long run of #1 hit singles. In 2004, Green Day released the rock opera American Idiot which captured the nation’s attention, selling more than 8 million copies in the U.S. alone and taking home the GRAMMY® Award for Best Rock Album. In 2010, a stage adaptation of American Idiot debuted on Broadway to critical and commercial acclaim. On Jan. 19, 2024, the band released their GRAMMY®-nominated 14th studio album, Saviors, which includes hit singles, “The American Dream Is Killing Me,” which reached #1 on Billboard Rock & Alternative Airplay, and “Dilemma.” The album debuted at #1 on seven different Billboard charts and marked their fifth #1 in the UK. In September 2025, after two years, 106 shows, 88 cities, 33 countries and over 2.5 million tickets sold, Green Day wrapped their monumental, sold-out world tour—the biggest of their career—in support of their GRAMMY®-nominated 14th studio album Saviors, proving that 35 years in, the band is still at the top of their game. |
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Signs of Progress: Marquette Rallies Past Providence
After an electric 105–104 overtime win against the Providence Friars, the Marquette Golden Eagles improved to 7–13 on the season and 2–7 in Big East play. The victory marks Marquette’s first non–Quad 4 win of the year. The 2025–26 season has clearly not unfolded as Shaka Smart envisioned, but as the year progresses, it’s becoming harder to ignore the steady improvement of this young Marquette team. As fans have grown accustomed to, Marquette’s offense came out swinging once again, scoring 29 points in the first 10 minutes of action.
While the offense was explosive throughout the night, the Golden Eagles were never able to fully pull away. Providence’s talented guard duo of senior Jaylin Sellers and freshman Stefan Vaaks scored at will, combining for 53 points. Although his scoring output was limited, Providence sophomore forward Oswin Erhunmwunse dominated the paint, hauling in 15 total rebounds, including five on the offensive glass.
Photo Cred: Yahoo Sports
Unlike previous contests this season, Marquette kept its foot firmly on the gas pedal. Led by freshman phenom Nigel James Jr.’s career-high 38 points and eight assists, the Golden Eagles delivered their best offensive performance of the season. While there is still obvious room for improvement, clear momentum is beginning to build—not only for the remainder of this year, but heading into next season as well.
What We Liked
It goes without saying that tonight’s offensive fireworks provide real reason for optimism moving forward. Marquette consistently penetrated the interior of Providence’s defense, while Nigel James knocked down timely three-pointers to help space the floor. The Golden Eagles had six players score in double figures, including Demarius Owens, who recorded his third straight double-digit scoring performance off the bench. The continued absence of redshirt junior guard Sean Jones and junior guard Zaide Lowrey opened the door for young players like Owens and Michael Phillips to earn extended minutes.
Photo Cred: Reuters
They are now carving out their identities on the court. Marquette also lived up to its trademark standard of disrupting passing lanes throughout the game. The Golden Eagles forced 17 turnovers, converting them into 27 points—their second-highest total of the season. On the offensive end, Marquette took care of the basketball, committing just six turnovers. Big East steals leader Chase Ross recorded a career-high seven steals and now ranks sixth all-time in career steals at Marquette.
Areas for Improvement
While it’s difficult to complain after scoring 105 points, season-long offensive issues continue to surface. Outside of Nigel James’ 4-for-6 shooting from beyond the arc, Marquette struggled to convert from three-point range. Without James’ scorching performance, the Golden Eagles would have shot a pedestrian 4-for-17 from deep.
As has been the case for several seasons, free throws remain a serious concern for Marquette. In a game that came down to the final seconds, the Golden Eagles left points on the board throughout the night. Although Nigel James Jr. calmly knocked down three straight free throws to force overtime, Marquette finished the game shooting just 63% from the charity stripe. Rebounding also remains an issue, as Marquette was outrebounded 42–30 and surrendered 14 offensive rebounds.
Conference Championship Preview & Capsules
| NEW YORK — Jan. 20, 2026 — For the first time in 14 seasons (since 2011) and 11th time since 1970, four new teams are in the Conference Championships compared to the previous season. On Sunday, New England will travel to Denver for the AFC Championship Game (3 p.m. ET, CBS) and the Los Angeles Rams will visit Seattle in the NFC Championship Game (6:30 p.m. ET, FOX).
This postseason, there have been 15 fourth quarter lead changes, the most in any postseason in NFL history, and six games decided by four points or fewer, tied with 2021 and 2006 for the most such games in NFL postseason history. The Conference Championship games feature the top three scoring offenses (the Los Angeles Rams, New England and Seattle) and three of the top four scoring defenses (Seattle, Denver and New England) from the regular season. For the Conference Championship capsules, click here. AFC Championship Game (Sunday, 3 p.m. ET, CBS) No. 2 New England Patriots (16-3) at No. 1 Denver Broncos (15-3) Championship history: The Patriots are 11-5 (.688) in Conference Championship games, tied with the Green Bay Packers (11) for the most in NFL history. The Broncos are 8-2 (.800) in their previous 10 Conference Championship appearances, the highest winning percentage in Championship games all-time. Postseason history: Denver is 4-1 against New England in the postseason, including home Conference Championship wins in 2013 (Denver 26, New England 16 on Jan. 19, 2014) and 2015 (Denver 20, New England 18 on Jan. 24, 2016). Game notes:
NFC Championship Game (Sunday, 6:30 p.m. ET, FOX) No. 5 Los Angeles Rams (14-5) at No. 1 Seattle Seahawks (15-3) Championship history: The Rams are 7-9 all-time in Conference Championship games but have won four consecutive Championship appearances since 1999. The Seahawks are 3-1 in Conference Championship appearances (3-0 in the NFC, 0-1 in the AFC). Postseason history: The Rams are 2-0 against the Seahawks in the postseason, with both victories coming in the Wild Card round on the road (2004 and 2020). 2025 regular season: The NFC West rivals split their regular season meetings this season, with each team winning at home. The Rams earned a 21-19 win in Week 11 as their defense recorded four interceptions. In Week 16, the Seahawks recorded a 38-37 overtime victory, overcoming a 16-point fourth quarter deficit, including a game-tying two-point conversion in the fourth quarter and game-winning two-point conversion in overtime. Divisional opponents in Championship games since 2002: The Los Angeles Rams and Seattle will mark the sixth Conference Championship game between divisional opponents since 2002. In the previous five such matchups, the division-winning team won four times and each of the five winners went on to win the Super Bowl. The previous matchups: 2024 NFC Championship (Washington, 23 at Philadelphia, 55), 2021 NFC Championship (San Francisco, 17 at L.A. Rams, 20), 2013 NFC Championship (San Francisco, 17 at Seattle, 23), 2010 NFC Championship (Green Bay, 21 at Chicago, 14) and 2008 AFC Championship (Baltimore, 14 at Pittsburgh 23). Game notes:
Media Contact: Sam Drexler, NFL; Sam.Drexler@NFL.com |
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The Implications of Brooks Koepka Returning to the PGA?
Brooks Koepka recently announced that he is leaving LIV Golf and returning to the PGA Tour, marking one of the most consequential moments in modern professional golf. This move matters not only because of Koepka’s stature as a multiple-major champion, but because of what it symbolizes in the ongoing power struggle between the two leagues. Koepka was one of LIV’s most significant signings—a proven winner still in his prime whose presence gave the Saudi-backed league instant competitive credibility.
Photo Cred: Front Office Sports
A player of his profile choosing to walk away challenges the notion that LIV Golf is a one-way door and could fundamentally alter how players view their long-term career paths. Koepka’s departure immediately raises the question of why a golfer would leave a league built on guaranteed money, limited schedules, and reduced competitive pressure. The simplest answer is that not every decision in elite sports is purely financial. Koepka has long defined himself by major championships, legacy, and performance on the biggest stages.
While LIV offers financial security and comfort, it does not replicate the historical weight, competitive depth, or weekly scrutiny of the PGA Tour. For a player who once dominated majors and openly thrived under pressure, the appeal of returning to an environment where every week matters may eventually outweigh the appeal of guaranteed income. Koepka was also paid a significant amount of money to join LIV, and now that he has cashed in, many view this as a “he got his money, now he wants back in” moment.
There is also the matter of relevance. LIV Golf events, despite improvements in production and some strong fields, continue to struggle for mainstream attention, television penetration, and consistent fan engagement. PGA Tour wins remain the primary currency of golf legacy, and world ranking implications still complicate LIV players’ ability to qualify for majors organically. For Koepka, whose prime years are finite, fully reinserting himself into golf’s traditional ecosystem can be viewed as an investment in how his career will ultimately be remembered rather than how much he earned in a short window.
Money, however, remains central to the conversation. LIV Golf fundamentally altered the professional golf economy by offering contracts that dwarfed traditional PGA Tour earnings. Koepka’s original LIV deal secured him generational wealth regardless of future results. That financial security may be what enables a return to the PGA Tour in the first place. Once a player no longer needs to prioritize guaranteed income, competitive fulfillment and legacy naturally rise in importance. In that sense, LIV Golf may have unintentionally empowered elite players to walk away once their financial goals were met.
Photo Cred: torreypines.com
It’s a development that would not bode well for golf if LIV remains a long-term fixture. If Koepka’s return proves successful, the ripple effects would be significant. Other LIV players would see proof that returning to the PGA Tour is not only possible, but survivable, even if penalties or limitations apply. Players like Bryson DeChambeau and Jon Rahm—both still firmly in their prime—would inevitably reevaluate their own situations.
DeChambeau has spoken openly about innovation and growth within LIV, but he also thrives on attention, competition, and relevance, all of which remain more concentrated on the PGA Tour. Rahm, a deeply traditional competitor who values history and legacy, could face mounting internal conflict if LIV’s competitive ecosystem fails to provide the fulfillment he once found on the PGA Tour. While both DeChambeau and Rahm have stated they are committed to LIV for now, only time will tell how long that commitment ultimately lasts.
A Fresh Start: Teams That Should Trade for Ja Morant
Ja Morant has had his share of issues over the last few seasons with the Memphis Grizzlies. His on-court play has not taken the leap many expected, and his off-court problems and attitude appear to be wearing thin on the organization. With Morant under contract for two more years after this season, any team that trades for him would be committing to him as a long-term piece. Here are my top three teams that should target Ja Morant in a trade.
1. Milwaukee Bucks
The Bucks have not had the first half of the season they envisioned, especially with constant rumors surrounding Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future in Milwaukee. Acquiring Morant would immediately bolster their backcourt alongside Kevin Porter Jr. and Gary Trent Jr. The Bucks also have yet to adequately replace Damian Lillard with a viable long-term option.
Photo Cred: Bleacher Report
During their recent deep playoff runs, Milwaukee has consistently relied on a strong point guard—first Eric Bledsoe, then Jrue Holiday, followed by Damian Lillard. Right now, that presence is missing. For a deal to work, the Bucks would likely need to include Kyle Kuzma and potentially Bobby Portis, along with draft compensation. Pairing Morant with Antetokounmpo and Myles Turner, surrounded by Milwaukee’s shooters, would instantly raise the team’s ceiling and make the Bucks a significantly more dangerous contender.
2. Miami Heat
The Heat have hovered around .500 for much of the season, which falls short of the standard in South Beach. They also lack a true starting point guard. Tyler Herro has handled point guard duties, while Norman Powell and Davion Mitchell have taken turns running the offense. With Terry Rozier placed on indefinite leave by the NBA for sports betting, Miami’s need for a starting-caliber point guard has become even more pressing.
Photo Cred: Clutch Points
A potential package could include Andrew Wiggins, Nikola Jović, and Davion Mitchell in exchange for Morant. His athleticism and downhill attacking ability would be a major addition for Miami and would put the Heat in the conversation for one of the league’s best backcourts alongside Powell, who has played at an All-Star level over the past two seasons. I also believe Pat Riley’s leadership and Miami’s culture could help keep Morant’s off-court issues in check, making this a much-needed reset for his NBA career.
3. Toronto Raptors
The Raptors have enjoyed a better-than-expected first half of the season. Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram are both playing at All-Star levels, and that production should continue. Barnes is an outstanding all-around player, but he is more of a connector and secondary creator than a consistent downhill scorer. Immanuel Quickley is a solid guard but profiles best as a combo guard rather than a defense-breaking superstar.
Photo Cred: TWSN Sports
RJ Barrett thrives attacking closeouts and mismatches, not as a primary initiator. Morant would immediately become one of Toronto’s best self-creators, providing a guard who can collapse defenses off the dribble, generate easy looks for teammates, and carry scoring stretches when the offense stalls. A trade package built around either Quickley or Barrett, along with Jakob Poeltl and Gradey Dick, should be enough to entice Memphis.
NFL Announces Head Coaches for 101st East-West Shrine Bowl
| Game to kickoff at 7 p.m. ET on Tuesday, Jan. 27 from the Ford Center at the Star, home of the Dallas Cowboys, and will be televised on NFL Network
NEW YORK –– Jan. 16, 2026 –– The National Football League announced today the head coaches for the 101st East-West Shrine Bowl, Lunda Wells of the Dallas Cowboys and Marquice Williams of the Atlanta Falcons. “Coaches Marquice Williams and Lunda Wells have the opportunity to not only evaluate top athlete prospects, but also to showcase their skills in leading players and coaching staffs in this high-profile game,” said Troy Vincent Sr., NFL executive vice president of football operations. “This is an important evaluation week for prospects as well as for coaches as they pursue their professional and personal goals. The game also shows the humanitarian side of football as participants greatly encourage the children and families at the Shriners Hospitals.” Wells recently completed his sixth season as the tight ends coach of the Dallas Cowboys (2020-25). Prior to his time in Dallas, he spent seven seasons with the New York Giants (2012-2019) as an offensive quality control and assistant offensive line coach. Wells, who also spent four seasons at LSU (2008-11), played offensive line for four seasons (2002-05) at Southern University. Williams, who was also a head coach in the East-West Shrine Bowl last year, recently completed his fifth season as the Falcons special team’s coordinator (2021-25) after serving two seasons as assistant special teams coach with the Detroit Lions. Williams participated in the Ozzie Newsome General Manager Forum and Quarterback Coaching Summit in 2023, a program designed for the most promising front office personnel and coaches on the offensive side of the ball. “We are extremely excited to have two experienced and respected NFL coaches leading our East-West Shrine Bowl,” said Bob Roller, Vice President of Sports for Shriners Hospitals for Children. “Marquice Williams is a returning head coach for us, and we love his passion for our game and the mission of Shriners Children’s. Having Coach Lunda Wells from the Cowboys is great for our game to attract more fans and interest in the Dallas metroplex.” At the conclusion of the NFL regular season, teams nominated deserving assistant coaches who were reviewed by a panel that includes NFL Football Operations staff, East-West Shrine Bowl leadership, members of the NFL’s General Managers Advisory Committee and the Fritz Pollard Alliance. Coaches nominated by NFL clubs must be active assistant coaches who display extraordinary teaching and communication skills and are recognized for their integrity and commitment to excellence in the coaching profession. The coaches must be accomplished at developing and preparing players to compete in the NFL. The 101st East-West Shrine Bowl, which features some of college football’s best prospects, will kick off at 7 p.m. ET (6 p.m. CT) on Tuesday, January 27 from the Ford Center at the Star in Frisco, Texas, home of the Dallas Cowboys, and will be televised on NFL Network. For more than 100 years, some of football’s greatest players and coaches have contributed to the tradition of the East-West Shrine Bowl, the nation’s first college all-star football game. Created by the Shriners in 1925, the game is driven by the desire to support Shriners Hospitals for Children in its mission to help children in need of expert medical care. Participating players make an annual visit to the local Shriners Hospital, visiting children and staff in an experience that they will truly never forget. Media Contact: Sam Drexler, NFL; Sam.Drexler@nfl.com |
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NFL Announces Head Coaches for 2026 Panini Senior Bowl
Game to kickoff at 2:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, Jan. 31 from University of South Alabama’s Hancock Whitney Stadium and will be televised on NFL Network
NEW YORK –– Jan. 16, 2026 –– The National Football League announced today the head coaches for the 2026 Panini Senior Bowl, Clint Hurtt of the Philadelphia Eagles and Joel Thomas of the New Orleans Saints.
“This is an opportunity for two excellent coaches, Joel Thomas of the New Orleans Saints and Clint Hurtt of the Philadelphia Eagles, to take the reins as head coaches in leading their staffs and top football athletes in the Senior Bowl’s week-long evaluation of NFL prospects,” said Troy Vincent Sr., NFL executive vice president of football operations. “The Senior Bowl is not only a showcase for top football student-athletes, but also a wonderful opportunity for coaches that are nominated by their NFL clubs to further develop their skills and learn from one another.”
Hurtt recently completed his second season as the senior defensive assistant/defensive line coach for the Philadelphia Eagles (2024-25) after spending seven seasons with the Seattle Seahawks (2017-23), including two as defensive coordinator. Prior to his NFL career, he spent 13 years coaching college football, including four years as defensive line coach at both Louisville (2010-13) and his alma mater, the University of Miami (2006-09), where he played defensive line and was a three-year letterman (1997, 1999-2000).
“We are thrilled to have Clint Hurtt as our head coach of the National Team in the 2026 Panini Senior Bowl,” said Drew Fabianich, the executive director of the Panini Senior Bowl. “He is a highly regarded coach with a proven track record throughout his career. Clint will make a positive impact on his players and coaches during the week with his leadership and deep knowledge of the game. He will be a great mentor for the top prospects in the 2026 Draft.”
Thomas, a 25-year coaching veteran, returned to the New Orleans Saints in 2025 as associate head coach/running backs coach after previously spending nine seasons (2015-23) with the club. In 2024, he coached running backs for the New York Giants. Prior to the NFL, he spent 13 seasons as a running backs coach in the college ranks, including time with Washington (2009-12), Purdue (2006-08), his alma mater Idaho (2004-05) and Louisville (2002-03). Thomas played running back at Idaho (1993-98) where he holds school records for rushing yards and touchdowns and was inducted into the school’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2008.
“It’s a great pleasure to have Joel Thomas as our head coach of the American Team in the 2026 Panini Senior Bowl,” Fabianich said. “Joel is highly respected throughout the league because of his leadership, work ethic, and his knowledge of the game. He has the ability to connect with players and coaches which further strengthens his credentials as a rising star among NFL coaches. He will serve our players well in their preparation for the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft.”
This is the fourth year the Senior Bowl is implementing a “Coach Up” format in which NFL coordinators and assistant coaches are placed into elevated or different roles from the ones they currently hold with their respective clubs. Head coaches and general managers from all non-playoff teams and Wild Card round participants had the opportunity to nominate assistant coaches. Hurtt and Thomas were then selected by a group composed of league office executives and representatives from the General Managers Advisory Committee.
The Panini Senior Bowl, widely regarded as the preeminent college football all-star game and the first stage in the NFL Draft process, is the longest continuously running all-star game and has taken place in Mobile, Ala., for the previous 75 years. The 76th Senior Bowl will kick off at 2:30 p.m. ET (1:30 p.m. CT) on Saturday, Jan. 31, from the University of South Alabama’s Hancock Whitney Stadium and will be televised on NFL Network.
Media Contact: Sam Drexler, NFL; Sam.Drexler@nfl.com
Super Bowl LX Décor Will Shine Throughout Bay Area
Local Artist Erin Fong to Design Theme Art for Digital Super Bowl Ticket and Vibrant Letterpress Artwork Display Honoring 60 Years of Super BowlFans Will Experience Ferry Terminal Building Super Bowl Projection Show, Bay Area Photo OpportunitiesNEW YORK – Jan. 15, 2026 – The NFL will showcase many décor elements throughout the Bay Area to celebrate Super Bowl LX and the local region’s culture. As the Bay Area prepares to welcome both locals and visitors from around the world, fans will be immersed in Super Bowl LX leading up to the game on Sunday, Feb. 8. Key décor elements include:
“We have the special opportunity to pay homage to the Bay Area’s vibrant culture and innovative spirit through our Super Bowl LX creative,” said Marissa Solis, NFL senior vice president of global brand and consumer marketing. “As we commemorate 60 years of Super Bowl, we’re thrilled to partner with local artists, spotlight iconic buildings and create memorable fan photo moments that celebrate our biggest event of the year alongside the Bay Area community helping to bring it all to life.” Local Artist Erin Fong Bay Area artist Erin Fong was selected to design the official theme art for Super Bowl LX, bringing the region’s rich printmaking tradition to life. An AAPI artist with deep roots in the Bay Area’s creative community, Fong’s work reflects a modern interpretation of the traditional letterpress, blending historic craftsmanship with bold design. For Super Bowl LX, Fong created custom letterpress prints hand-fed through a vintage 1960s Vandercook printing press, weighing nearly 1,000 pounds, to produce vibrant gradient backgrounds layered with antique wood type to honor 60 years of Super Bowl history. Her artwork will be featured across the Super Bowl game day digital tickets and official programs, as well as a large display in the lobby of Moscone North at Super Bowl Experience presented by Jersey Mike’s, the NFL’s immersive, interactive fan festival. For Super Bowl Experience, fans can visit https://SuperBowl.com/ExperienceTickets to purchase tickets. “The Super Bowl is a celebration rooted in legacy,” said Erin Fong. “Using a historic letterpress process to honor 60 years of the game, while infusing bright, joyful color into the work, felt like a meaningful way to celebrate that tradition.” At the core of Fong’s work is the belief that color has the power to heal. Drawing from her experience as a neurodivergent artist, Fong uses vibrant hues as a tool to create uplifting environments and contribute to collective well-being. More information can be found at her ErinLovesFun and ErinLovesColors Instagram handles. Ferry Terminal Building Projection Show Through a series of illustrations, the Ferry Terminal Building will transform into a time machine taking fans back through the last Sixty Years of Super Bowl and culminating with this year’s matchup in the Bay Area. Between shows there will be an interactive element that will gauge real-time fandom, allowing fans to vote for their favorite team to take over the coveted Vince Lombardi Trophy. The Ferry Terminal Building Super Bowl Projection Show will happen each evening starting Thursday, Feb. 5 through Saturday, Feb. 7. Fan Photo Opportunities Super Bowl LX photo opportunity areas will be set up near the Harry Bridges Plaza across the street from the Ferry Terminal Building and at the Ferry Terminal Plaza at the corner of Mission Street and The Embarcadero. Additionally, Bay Area residents and visitors will be greeted by large-format LX roman numerals that are installed at high-profile locations throughout the region including the San Francisco International Airport, San Jose County airport, Pier 39, Capital Corridor (Emeryville transit station), around the city of Santa Clara and SFMOMA (location for the BAHC Super Bowl LX Innovation Summit.) For more information on Super Bowl LX, visit: SuperBowl.com. |
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Rams Talent vs. Bears Magic in Playoff Showdown
The Los Angeles Rams will travel to Chicago to take on the Bears on Sunday in the final game of the NFL’s divisional round. The Rams boast the most complete roster and coaching staff in football, yet they underperformed this season, finishing 12–5 and failing to win their own division. They let games slip away in all five losses and realistically could have gone undefeated when examining how each loss unfolded.
Photo Cred: Yahoo Sports
Meanwhile, the Bears went 11–6 and captured their division, a surprising outcome for a team many expected to finish last before the season began. Chicago won eight one-score games and pulled off several highly improbable late-game comebacks. That trend continued in their wild card matchup against Green Bay, as the Bears rallied from a 21–3 halftime deficit and a 21–6 deficit entering the fourth quarter.
Despite their late-game magic, the Bears were not an eye-popping statistical team during the regular season. Chicago ranked 10th offensively and 17th defensively, while the Rams finished first in offense and sixth in defense. Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford posted the best statistical season of his career at age 37, a performance that coincided with the strongest supporting cast he has ever had.
Even with Los Angeles holding clear advantages on paper, both in roster talent and team statistics, the Rams have consistently played down to their competition throughout the year. A blocked field goal, an ill-timed interception, a fumble, or a defensive breakdown has repeatedly cost them in losses. That pattern nearly resurfaced in the wild card round, when LA barely escaped with a 34–31 win over a Carolina Panthers team that finished the regular season with a losing record. If the Rams are not careful, this tendency could finally catch up to them against a Bears team that has seen everything go right in the biggest moments and thrives late in close games.
