Texas Defensive Tackle Sweat Wins 78th Outland Trophy

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December 13, 2023

unnamed (3) — Photo Cred: Big 12 Conference

Released By the Outland Trophy:

DALLAS (FWAA) – Texas defensive tackle T’Vondre Sweat was named the recipient of the 78th Outland Trophy on Friday night during The Home Depot College Football Awards on ESPN. The Outland Trophy is awarded annually to the nation’s best college interior lineman on offense or defense. Sweat is the school’s fourth Outland Trophy winner.

Sweat, a 6-4, 362-pound senior from Huntsville, Texas, was selected by the All-America Committee of the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA) from three finalists that also included offensive tackle Joe Alt of Notre Dame and guard Cooper Beebe of Kansas State. Sweat is the second defensive tackle of the past three seasons to win the Outland Trophy (Georgia’s Jordan Davis in 2021) and the fourth from the defensive side of the last seven seasons. He is the first winner from a Big 12 school since 2004 (Oklahoma offensive tackle Jammal Brown).

The official presentation to Sweat will be made at the Outland Trophy Awards Dinner sponsored by Werner Enterprises and produced by the Greater Omaha Sports Committee in Omaha, Neb., on Jan. 10, 2024. Prior to that, Texas (12-1) faces Washington (13-0) in the Allstate Sugar Bowl in a College Football Playoff semifinal in New Orleans.

Sweat is the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year as the linchpin of one of the most formidable defensive fronts in the nation. He was one of three unanimous selections and the all-conference honors are the first of his career following a breakout season. He established career highs with 42 tackles (sixth on the team), 17 solo tackles, eight tackles for loss, two sacks, and four pass breakups. In addition, Sweat also blocked a kick that was returned for a defensive two-point conversion against Iowa State.

He also caught a two-yard touchdown pass in the Big 12 Championship Game last week against Oklahoma State, the first reception of his career.

Photo Cred: Spectrum News

Texas’ defensive front, which includes Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year Byron Murphy II, has led the Longhorns to near the top of multiple national defensive statistical categories:

held opponents to 80.9 rushing yards per game (4th in the FBS)
held opponents to 26.5 percent on third-down conversions (2nd in FBS)
tie for fourth in red zone defense (71.4 percent, tied for 4th in FBS)
gave up 17.2 points per game thus far in 13 games (12th in FBS)
gave up 210 first downs thus far in 13 games (27th in FBS)

Sweat is the latest winner among Texas’ fine tradition with the Outland Trophy and its first in 46 seasons. Defensive tackle Brad Shearer was the last winner prior to Sweat in 1977 with linebacker Tommy Nobis (1965) and defensive tackle Scott Appleton (1963) also earning previous awards. Like Sweat, each one of Texas’ previous Outland Trophy winners, finalists, or semifinalists were native Texans.

Photo Cred: The Daily Texan

The Outland Trophy is the third-oldest major college football award. Created in 1946 when Dr. John Outland presented the FWAA with a financial contribution to initiate the award, the Outland Trophy has been given to the best interior lineman in college football ever since. Dr. Outland, an All-American at the University of Pennsylvania in the late 1890s, eventually took up practice in Kansas City, Mo. An avid outdoorsman, Dr. Outland believed linemen did not get the credit they deserved and wanted an award to recognize them.

The Outland Trophy is a member of the National College Football Awards Association. Founded in 1997, the NCFAA includes college football’s most prestigious awards and its 24 awards have honored more than 900 recipients dating back to 1935. For more information about the NCFAA and its award programs, visit the redesigned NCFAA.org or follow on X at @NCFAA.

Founded in 1941, the Football Writers Association of America consists of journalists, broadcasters, publicists, photographers and key executives in all areas of college football. The FWAA works to govern media access and gameday operations while presenting awards and honors, including an annual All-America team. For more information about the FWAA and its programs and initiatives, contact Executive Director Steve Richardson at 214-870-6516 or tiger@fwaa.com.

Photo Cred: X.com

Doak Walker Award Winner

By

Stephen Patrick

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December 13, 2023

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OKLAHOMA STATE’S GORDON II WINS 2023 DOAK WALKER AWARD

True sophomore, Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year is Oklahoma State’s first winner of the national running back award

DALLAS (SMU) – The PwC SMU Athletic Forum is proud to announce Oklahoma State sophomore running back Ollie Gordon II as the winner of the 2023 Doak Walker Award. The announcement was made during The Home Depot College Football Awards on ESPN. The formal presentation of the award for the nation’s best collegiate running back will take place here in Dallas at the annual banquet scheduled for Feb. 16, 2024. The PwC Doak Walker Legends Award will also be presented at the event.

The Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year is the first winner from Oklahoma State and just the fourth sophomore to win the award. Jonathan Taylor (Wisconsin, 2018), LaMichael James (Oregon, 2010), and Darren McFadden (Arkansas, 2006) won the award in their second collegiate season. Taylor and McFadden went on to become two-time winners. Gordon, a 6-1, 211-pound true sophomore from Fort Worth, Texas, joined Chuba Hubbard (2019) and Kendall Hunter (2010) as Oklahoma State’s third finalist for the award. He beat out fellow finalists North Carolina’s Omarion Hampton and Missouri’s Cody Schrader for the award.

Photo Cred: LinkedIn (J. Scott Moore)

Gordon II showed some flashes of greatness in the final regular-season game as a true freshman last season, when he ran for 136 yards vs. West Virginia. It wasn’t till this season’s fourth game when he found his stride after carrying the ball just 19 times over the season’s first three weeks. He then ripped off six straight 100-yard games, including 282 yards and four touchdowns vs. West Virginia and 271 yards and two touchdowns vs. Cincinnati. For those two games, he earned the Doak Walker National Running Back of the Week honor. Leading up to those two huge games, he ran for 168 yards vs. Kansas. In all, he was the national running back of the week an unprecedented three straight weeks this season.

He leads the country with 1,614 rushing yards and is second with 20 rushing touchdowns. He also caught 37 passes for 326 yards and a touchdown and his 1,940 total yards from scrimmage also lead the country. The Cowboys will close out the season in the TaxAct Texas Bowl against Texas A&M on Dec. 27 in Houston.

Photo Cred: Pistols Firing

The Doak Walker Award presented by the PwC SMU Athletic Forum has been awarded to the nation’s top running back since 1990. For the second straight season, the award also recognized a national running back of the week. A select 20-person committee from the award’s full voting body of media and past winners has chosen the weekly national running back of the week recipient.

The Doak Walker Award is a member of the National College Football Awards Association. Founded in 1997, the NCFAA includes college football’s most prestigious awards and its 24 awards have honored more than 900 recipients dating back to 1935. This season, 12 NCFAA awards will honor national players of the week each Tuesday. For more information about the NCFAA and its award programs, visit the redesigned NCFAA.org or follow on X at @NCFAA.

Photo Cred: X.com

Duke QB Riley Leonard Transfers to Notre Dame

By

Stephen Patrick

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December 12, 2023

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This was a pivotal Tuesday that will forever echo through the hallowed halls of collegiate football. Duke’s exceptionally talented quarterback, the illustrious Riley Leonard, made seismic waves in the landscape by formally declaring his unwavering commitment to the prestigious Notre Dame. This groundbreaking and high-profile decision not only reverberates through the realms of sport but also strategically positions the Fighting Irish to harness the commanding skills of a seasoned playmaker as they venture into the crucial 2024 season. This period assumes heightened significance as Notre Dame endeavors to seamlessly fill the void left by the departure of the esteemed quarterback, Sam Hartman.

Photo Cred: NBC Sports

In a touching and eloquent social media post, Leonard expressed his overwhelming excitement and gratitude, describing the prospect of donning the iconic Notre Dame jersey as nothing short of a “dream come true.” His declaration was punctuated with a resounding and heartfelt “Go Irish,” resonating with the fervor of countless fans eagerly awaiting his debut in the gold and blue.

As the Notre Dame faithful collectively hold their breath in anticipation, Leonard is poised to take command of the Fighting Irish’s offense. This unit, which showcased moments of sheer brilliance amid challenges in critical situations during the 2023 season, is now entrusted to the capable hands of a quarterback whose arrival signals a potential renaissance. Under the seasoned guidance of Coach Marcus Freeman entering his second year, the Fighting Irish concluded the previous season with a commendable 9-3 record in the regular season, laying a solid foundation for continued growth and success.

The imminent partnership between Riley Leonard and the Notre Dame football program promises to be a catalyst for further evolution and an eagerly awaited chapter in the team’s storied history. Leonard brings an impressive track record to South Bend, building on the foundation of a breakout 2022 season with Duke. During that remarkable campaign, he showcased his quarterback prowess by amassing an impressive 2,967 passing yards and orchestrating 20 touchdowns. Adding a dynamic dimension to his game, Leonard’s mobility was evident with a remarkable 699 rushing yards and an astonishing 13 rushing touchdowns. His multifaceted contributions were pivotal in Duke’s stellar 5-1 start in the subsequent season.

Photo Cred: Fox News

However, his promising trajectory faced an unexpected setback due to injuries sustained in crucial matchups against Notre Dame and Florida State. In the encounter with Notre Dame on September 30, Leonard displayed his indomitable resilience by completing 12 of 27 passes. He also ran for an impressive 88 yards and spearheaded a go-ahead scoring drive in the fourth quarter. Unfortunately, fate dealt a cruel blow in the game’s final moments. He suffered an ankle injury that sidelined him for the remainder of the season.

Now, as Leonard gracefully transitions to the hallowed grounds of Notre Dame, he brings not only his outstanding statistical achievements but also the invaluable experience garnered from navigating challenges on the field. Irish fans, filled with eager anticipation, await the opportunity to witness his transformative impact on the team’s offensive dynamics and his pivotal role in propelling the Fighting Irish’s football program to unprecedented heights in the upcoming season. The dawn of a new era awaits, and Riley Leonard stands as a beacon of hope and promise for Notre Dame’s footballing future.

Will Bill Belichick Stay With New England?

By

Stephen Patrick

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December 12, 2023

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As the 2023 NFL season nears its end for the New England Patriots, the team confronts not only the disappointment of playoff elimination but also grapples with two pivotal uncertainties that could significantly mold its future direction. The foremost question revolves around the quarterback position, with Mac Jones, the highly praised first-round pick from the 2021 draft, unexpectedly benched in favor of Bailey Zappe. This surprising change in the starting lineup has sparked speculation among fans and analysts, triggering discussions about the team’s long-term strategy and the potential role of Jones in it.

Photo Cred: The Boston Globe

Concurrently, another looming uncertainty casts a shadow over the franchise – the status of the legendary head coach, Bill Belichick. Widely considered one of the greatest coaches and defensive masterminds in the history of the game, Belichick has led the Patriots to an impressive six Super Bowl victories. However, with the team holding a disappointing 3-10 record and missing the playoffs for the second consecutive season, doubts about Belichick’s ongoing association with the organization have intensified.

Recent reports, notably from Tom Curran of NBC Sports Boston, have fueled speculation about Belichick’s future. Curran suggests there are indications that the Patriots and their iconic coach are set to part ways at the end of the season. This decision is purportedly influenced by team owner Robert Kraft, who made the call following a humiliating loss to the Indianapolis Colts in a game played in Germany. This defeat not only underscored the team’s struggles but also highlighted subpar performances at the quarterback position, intensifying scrutiny on the coaching staff.

Photo Cred: SI

As the regular season approaches its conclusion, the Patriots stand at a crossroads, facing significant decisions that could reshape the team’s identity and trajectory. The potential departure of a coach of Belichick’s stature would undoubtedly signify the end of an era for the franchise, ushering in a new chapter filled with uncertainties and possibilities. With fans and football enthusiasts eagerly awaiting official announcements and developments, the fate of both the quarterback position and the coaching staff hangs in the balance, leaving the Patriots’ faithful in a state of anticipation and trepidation regarding what lies ahead for their cherished team.

Week 15 Saturday Showdown Tripleheader Starting at 1 PM ET on NFL Network

By

Stephen Patrick

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December 12, 2023

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Released by the NFL:

INGLEWOOD, Calif. — Dec. 12, 2023 — NFL Network has set its broadcast teams for the Week 15 Saturday Showdown tripleheader on Dec. 16.

Chris Rose and Jason McCourty, along with Steve Wyche on the sidelines, will call the Minnesota Vikings versus Cincinnati Bengals game at 1 PM ET.
Rich Eisen and Kurt Warner, along with Jamie Erdahl on the sidelines, will call the Pittsburgh Steelers versus Indianapolis Colts game at 4:30 PM ET.
Kevin Harlan and Trent Green, along with Melanie Collins on the sidelines, will call the Denver Broncos versus Detroit Lions game at 8:15 PM ET.

Photo Cred: NFL.com

In addition to airing on NFL Network, each game will be available on local broadcast stations in the respective markets of the competing teams (WCCO in Minneapolis, WCPO in Cincinnati, KDKA in Pittsburgh, WTTV in Indianapolis, KMGH in Denver and WJBK in Detroit).

Fans can also stream each game across devices with NFL+, the league’s direct-to-consumer offering which is available through NFL digital properties (NFL.com and the NFL app), and on an authenticated basis through NFL Network distributors’ apps and sites and NFL platforms. Live game audio will be broadcast nationally by Westwood One, and carries on SiriusXM, the NFL app and NFL.com. For a full list of viewing options, fans can visit NFL.com/watch.

Photo Cred: YouTube TV

Pregame coverage Saturday begins at 10 AM ET on NFL Network with “NFL GameDay Kickoff,” hosted by Andrew Siciliano, Steve Smith Sr., and Gerald McCoy from Los Angeles. They will be joined by Steve Wyche from Cincinnati, Omar Ruiz from Indianapolis, and Insider Ian Rapoport.

Coverage continues at 4 PM ET with Siciliano, Smith, and McCoy on “NFL GameDay Kickoff,” followed by “NFL GameDay Kickoff” at 7:30 PM ET with Colleen Wolfe, Michael Robinson, Maurice Jones-Drew, and Mike Garafolo from Detroit. Coverage concludes at 11:30 PM ET with “NFL GameDay Final” with Wolfe, Robinson, Jones-Drew, and Garafolo.

Week 15: Saturday, Dec. 16 (NFL Network)

1:00 PM ET – Minnesota Vikings at Cincinnati Bengals

4:30 PM ET – Pittsburgh Steelers at Indianapolis Colts

8:15 PM ET – Denver Broncos at Detroit Lions

Photo Cred: DISH Network

Exploring Five Years of Dominance: The Kentucky Governor’s Cup

By

Andrew Bruner

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December 12, 2023

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x1080 — Photo Cred: Dailymotion- Sports Illustrated

Louisville (UL) and Kentucky (UK) stand among the most historic rivalries in college sports. Traditionally, basketball was considered UK’s domain while football belonged to UL. However, recent years have witnessed a shift in the tide, with the Wildcats securing victories in every Governor’s Cup matchup since 2018 (excluding 2020 due to COVID). Kentucky now leads the all-time head-to-head matchup 20-15. Let’s explore this one-sided affair by reviewing each of their last five matchups and exploring how Kentucky emerged victorious.

2018: UK wins 56-10

The Wildcats’ winning streak started with an utter dominance over their in-state rivals. Entering the game more highly rated than ever before against the Cards, Kentucky showcased their prowess. Quarterback Terry Wilson went on to win the Howard Schnellenberger Award given to the most valuable player in each Governor’s Cup game. He delivered an outstanding performance with his arm and legs, finishing the game with over 350 total yards and four touchdowns.

Photo Cred: NKyTribune  

2019: UK wins 45-13

UK continued their dominance in another resounding win, with the MVP going to a QB once again, Lynn Bowden. Bowden’s contribution was not through the air, where he only completed only one pass for four yards. Rather, he had a ground assault of nearly 300 yards and four touchdowns. The Wildcats established their winning streak by overpowering UL on the ground.

Photo Cred: The Courier-Journal

2021: UK wins 52-21

Kentucky maintained their momentum, even amid the challenges of COVID, extending their winning streak to three. The Wildcats have averaged about 50 points per game in the three straight wins. A familiar face, quarterback Will Levis, secured the MVP to become the third consecutive Kentucky QB to do so. Levis, like Bowden before him, found success on the ground, rushing for over 100 yards and four touchdowns. Louisville has found themselves in a rut against the Cats, leaving Kentucky fans with little sympathy for their rivals!

Photo Cred: X.com

2022: UK wins 26-13

In the lowest-scoring game of the past five years, the 2022 Governor’s Cup saw Kentucky’s kicker, Matt Ruffolo, named MVP. He was flawless, nailing all four field goal attempts alongside both his PATs. These points made him responsible for 14 out of the team’s 26 points, which was enough to win him the award. This was Kentucky’s ugliest win throughout the win streak. While this was arguably the least dominant in the streak, they still beat the Cards by two possessions, proving that a win is a win in the end.

Photo Cred: The Courier-Journal

2023: UK wins 38-31

Finally, I had the pleasure of watching our most recent matchup in person. 2023 marked a departure from the norm. Louisville, with a dominant season record of 10-1, faced a struggling Kentucky that was limping into the matchup at 6-5. The hope for Louisville fans was high: this was the year they beat the Cats. As a Wildcats fan, I honestly thought they would. The game started in their favor and, by halftime, they were leading a close but low-scoring affair.

Photo Cred: The Courier-Journal

Suddenly, the game took an unexpected turn in the second half. It became a shootout with fumbles, interceptions, and even a kickoff return influencing the score. Louisville’s costly fumbles, which put UK into good field position multiple times, might have lost them the game. Kentucky ultimately ended their rival’s season on a sour note once again, starting a losing streak that extended to the ACC Championship against Florida State. UK linebacker J.J. Weaver emerged as the MVP in a close and thrilling contest. As Louisville’s brightest season came to a close, the losing streak against the Wildcats continued. The question remains: can the Cards break the streak next year, or will Kentucky make it six in a row?

AP All-American First Team

By

Stephen Patrick

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December 11, 2023

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AnyConv.com__GBGdxN7WkAAxGqV — Photo Cred: Instagram

First Team

Offense

QB: Jayden Daniels, fifth-year, LSU
RB: Ollie Gordon II, second-year, Oklahoma State
RB: Cody Schrader, sixth-year, Missouri
OT: Olu Fashanu, fourth-year, Penn State
OT: Joe Alt, third-year, Notre Dame
OG: Cooper Beebe, fifth-year, Kansas State
OG: Zak Zinter, fourth-year, Michigan
C: Jackson Powers-Johnson, third-year, Oregon
TE: Brock Bowers, third-year, Georgia
WR: Marvin Harrison Jr., third-year, Ohio State
WR: Malik Nabers, third-year, LSU
WR: Rome Odunze, fourth-year, Washington
AP: Travis Hunter, second-year, Colorado
K: Graham Nicholson, third-year, Miami (OH)

Photo Cred: X.com

Defense

EDGE: Jalen Green, fifth-year, James Madison
EDGE: Laiatu Latu, fifth-year, UCLA
DT: T’Vondre Sweat, fifth-year, Texas
DT: Jer’Zahn Newton, fourth-year, Illinois
LB: Payton Wilson, sixth-year, NC State
LB: Edgerrin Cooper, fourth-year, Texas A&M
LB: Dallas Turner, third-year, Alabama
CB: Cooper DeJean, third-year, Iowa
CB: Kool-Aid McKinstry, third-year, Alabama
S: Malaki Starks, second-year, Georgia
S: Xavier Watts, fourth-year, Notre Dame
DB: Terrion Arnold, third-year, Alabama
P: Tory Taylor, fourth-year, Iowa

Photo Cred: X.com

Dillon Gabriel Chooses Oregon

By

Stephen Patrick

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December 11, 2023

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Quarterback Dillon Gabriel has officially decided to take his talents to Oregon for his highly-anticipated final season of eligibility, making the announcement this past Saturday. The former Oklahoma standout emerged as one of the most sought-after quarterbacks in the transfer portal this offseason, boosting the Ducks’ prospects for the 2024 season. With the departure of starting quarterback Bo Nix, who initially transferred from Auburn due to his exhausted eligibility, Gabriel is poised to step into the pivotal role for the Ducks.

Photo Cred: Fox News

The strategic move by Gabriel comes on the heels of the departure of offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby from Oklahoma, who assumed the head-coaching position at Mississippi State. This transition likely played a role in Gabriel’s decision-making process, as the dynamics of the coaching staff can significantly influence a player’s choice of destination.
Gabriel’s performance during the previous season at Oklahoma showcased his prowess on the field, securing his position as one of the top quarterbacks in the nation.

The talented signal-caller demonstrated his aerial finesse, ranking an impressive sixth among all FBS quarterbacks in passing yards with 3,660. Furthermore, he showcased his ability to find the end zone consistently, ranking eighth in passing touchdowns with an impressive tally of 30. Notably, Gabriel also exhibited efficiency in his passing game, securing the tenth spot in completion percentage. Gabriel is an instant upgrade at the QB position.

Photo Cred: Yahoo Sports

Dillon Gabriel to the Oregon roster fills the void left by Bo Nix but also injects considerable experience and skill into the team. As the Ducks prepare for the challenges of the 2024 season, the arrival of Gabriel will generate heightened anticipation among fans and provide a solid foundation for the team’s offensive strategies. With his track record of success and the potential to further develop under the coaching staff at Oregon, Gabriel’s transfer marks a significant chapter in his collegiate career and the Ducks’ football program.

Drake Maye Enters the Draft

By

Stephen Patrick

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December 11, 2023

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In the wake of current Washington Commanders quarterback Sam Howell’s successful tenure, the North Carolina Tar Heels found a confident successor in Drake Maye. The young quarterback has seamlessly stepped into the role, exceeding expectations and establishing himself as a standout in the team’s offensive system. Maye, a highly-regarded five-star recruit from high school, eagerly embraced the opportunity to showcase his skills in Phil Longo’s high-powered offensive scheme. The 2022 season showed his talent, as he completed an impressive 66.2% of his passes. He accumulated 4,321 yards and 38 touchdowns while throwing only a mere seven interceptions. Notably, he displayed versatility by amassing nearly 700 rushing yards and contributing seven rushing touchdowns.

Photo Drake: College Football Network

Despite Longo’s departure in 2023, Maye remained a consistent force on the field. There was a slight dip in his production: 3,608 yards, 24 touchdowns, and nine interceptions. However, many argue that this performance showcased growth, setting the stage for a promising future. Beyond possessing the demeanor and appearance of an NFL-caliber quarterback, Maye’s execution of high-level NFL plays distinguishes him as a standout prospect in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft. His physical attributes, including a tall and well-built frame, exceptional mobility, and elite arm talent, position him as a prototypical quarterback.

Photo Cred: ESPN

Key Attributes Setting Maye Apart

Crisp and Snappy Release: Maye generates high-level velocity with a crisp, quick release, allowing him to navigate tight coverage and push the ball outside the numbers.
Off-Platform Skills: His off-platform skills are remarkable, displaying fluid hip torque and 360-degree arm elasticity, showcasing agility not often seen in young quarterbacks.
Lateral Burst and Evasive Ability: Maye’s underrated lateral burst and evasive ability provide mobility in various situations, making him a dynamic threat on the field.
Control and Alignment: Impressive control and alignment of his shoulders, both within and outside the structure, contribute to his consistent performance and accuracy.
Anticipation and Field Vision: He excels in progressing through reads, displaying consistent anticipation whether reacting to breaks or reading zones, showcasing high-level field vision.
Pocket Discipline: Significant improvement in pocket discipline and navigation in 2023 showcases growth as a space operator, making him a poised presence under pressure.
Risk-Taking and Aggression: A calculated risk-taker, Maye balances aggression with the ability to exploit defensive weaknesses, showcasing a mature understanding of the game.
Competitive Toughness: Competitive toughness and poise are evident in his pocket presence and running game, highlighting his resilience and adaptability.

Photo Cred: KXAN

Drake Maye’s journey from a highly-regarded recruit to a consistent and standout performer for the North Carolina Tar Heels speaks volumes about his potential as an NFL quarterback. As the 2024 NFL Draft approaches, all eyes will be on this rising star, anticipating the next chapter in his already impressive football career.

Seton Hall Pirates Fall Twice in the First Full Week of December

By

Sam Cohen

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December 11, 2023

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The Seton Hall Pirates faced a challenging week with two significant matchups on their schedule. Unfortunately, they were unable to capitalize on either occasion. Their first test came against the formidable No. 6 Baylor, who entered the game with an undefeated record for the season. Despite putting up a valiant effort on the road, the Pirates succumbed to a 78-60 defeat against the Bears. One of the glaring issues for Seton Hall in this contest was their struggle to find the mark from beyond the arc, managing a mere 30.8% shooting from the three-point line.

Photo Cred: AP News

However, amidst the team’s challenges, Kadary Richmond emerged as a beacon of excellence, showcasing his leadership on the court. Richmond’s impressive performance included 18 points, six assists, and four rebounds. Notably, he displayed efficiency by shooting 8-for-13 from the field and claimed the title of the team’s leading scorer for the game. The Pirates encountered a formidable opponent in Ja’Kobi Walter, a top NBA prospect, who contributed 15 points. This included an above-average 4-for-7 from three-point range, posing a persistent threat to the Pirates throughout the matchup.

Following the setback on the road, the Pirates returned home with an undefeated 5-0 record for the year to face their cross-town rivals, the Rutgers Scarlet Knights, in the Garden State Classic. In an unexpected turn of events, Seton Hall suffered a 70-63 defeat, marking their first loss at the Prudential Center this season and thus breaking a two-year streak. The narrative of the game was dominated by their struggles from the free-throw line, where they managed a meager 59.3% conversion rate on foul shots. Additionally, their three-point shooting struggles persisted, with a dismal 3-for-20 from beyond the arc, resulting in a mere 15% shooting percentage.

Photo Cred: RU

Senior guard Noah Fernandes emerged as a key player for the Scarlet Knights, leading the way with 19 points on a solid 5-for-11 shooting performance from the field. Seton Hall found themselves unable to contain Rutgers from the three-point line, as the Scarlet Knights achieved an impressive 50% shooting percentage from long range. Looking ahead, the Pirates face another challenging week with matchups against Monmouth on Tuesday and Missouri on Sunday. With their sights set on breaking free from their recent struggles, Seton Hall aims to turn the tide and potentially reshape the trajectory of their season in the upcoming games. The team will need to address their shortcomings, particularly in three-point shooting and free-throw accuracy, to bounce back and regain momentum on the court.

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2018: UK wins 56-10

2019: UK wins 45-13

2021: UK wins 52-21

2022: UK wins 26-13

2023: UK wins 38-31

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