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Predicting the Final 12-Team College Football Playoff Field

By
Reece Alvarado
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Photo Crd: CFP

The College Football Playoff is almost here. I take a deeper look into the CFP 12-Team Playoff and predict the final teams who will make the playoffs. 

12. Tulane Green Wave

As the G5 representative, Tulane has the clearest shot to the Playoffs. Win and you’re in. Currently the only ranked team from the group of five, they will most likely play Navy in the AAC Conference Championship, and the winner will secure an automatic bid into the playoffs.

11. BYU Cougars

With a favorable schedule left, BYU could easily finish the year 11-1 with a rematch against Texas Tech in the conference championship. If they lose to the Red Raiders again, it’s up to the committee if the Cougars can sneak in as one of the last at-large bids. A lack of challenges in the regular season means these big games are worth so much more for BYU to prove they belong, but losing the two biggest games of the year could mark the end of their run.

10. USC Trojans

USC has emerged as a contender late in the year and have a direct shot to sneak in without playing in the Big 10 championship game. Heading to a big showdown in Eugene, Oregon to play the Ducks means there is only room for one of these old Pac 12 foes in the playoffs.

9. Alabama Crimson Tide

After a staggering loss at home, Alabama find themselves on the brink of a playoff birth. Winning their last two games won’t automatically qualify them into the SEC Championship Game but that might not be a bad thing. One loss and they’re out so avoiding another knockout game and securing a spot in the playoffs is perfectly fine for the Crimson Tide.

8. Ole Miss Rebels

Ole Miss, with its one loss to Georgia, sit comfortably in the SEC trying to get into the SEC Conference Championship Game to obtain a first round bye. If they finish the season 11-1, they are locked into the playoffs, even if they lose the conference championship. But the bigger worry in Oxford right now is who their coach will be next year.

7. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets

The ACC is a mess right now and it’s looking like only the conference champ will make it in. Georgia Tech has been the best so far and will be the favorite to win against whomever they play. Their one loss to North Carolina State really set them back in the poll and currently no ACC team sits in the top 12 of the rankings.

6. Notre Dame Fighting Irish

After a dominating performance against Pitt, Notre Dame secured themselves into the playoffs. A slow start to the year but they have hit their stride and are gunning for another chance at a title. While they can’t receive a first round bye, they can solidify themselves as one of the top at-large seeds and host a first round game.

5. Texas A&M Aggies

If the Aggies lose to Georgia in the SEC Championship, it’s hard to put them in the top four over other conference winners. Assuming they win their final two games of the regular season, their best victory will be over Texas followed by very mediocre SEC teams. A weak schedule won’t play in their favor when deciding who is more deserving of a first round bye.

4. Indiana

Losing to Ohio State in the Big 10 Championship won’t be a big deal to the Hoosiers because they are solidified as a top seed, assuming an undefeated regular season. The only difference between them and Texas A&M is the current standings. It will be hard to drop three spots when losing to the best team in the nation.

3. Texas Tech Red Raiders

Texas Tech has emerged as the best team in the Big 12 by a clear margin. Their shot to win the conference is easy with an impressive 12-1 record. A Heisman candidate linebacker that can do it all has commanded one of the best defenses in the country and that might be enough for all the people in Lubbock, Texas to see the glory days of Red Raider football once more.

2. Georgia Bulldogs

Georgia has quietly built another dominant team after losing to Alabama early in the year. While they have narrowly escaped games that shouldn’t have been close, they always have the ability to go toe-to-toe with the best and should never be counted out when Kirby Smart is the head coach. If they win the SEC, that might be all they need to spark another championship run.

1. Ohio State Buckeyes

A back to back championship season is very possible despite so much talent being lost to the NFL. Every player has stepped up and some have emerged from nowhere, which has built another dominating team that has plenty of gas left in the tank for another postseason run.

Josh Allen, Jordyn Brooks & Wil Lutz Named Week 11 AFC Players of the Week

By
Stephen Patrick
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Jan 19, 2025; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen (17) throws a pass in the third quarter of a 2025 AFC divisional round game against the Baltimore Ravens at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-Imagn Images

NEW YORK — Nov. 19, 2025 — Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen, Miami Dolphins linebacker Jordyn Brooks and Denver Broncos kicker Wil Lutz are the AFC Offensive, Defensive and Special Teams Players of the Week for games played in Week 11 (November 13, 16-17).

OFFENSE: QB JOSH ALLEN, BUFFALO BILLS

  • Allen passed for 317 yards and three touchdowns and added three rushing touchdowns in the Bills’ 44-32 victory over Tampa Bay and is the only player in NFL history with at least 300 passing yards, three touchdown passes and three rushing touchdowns in a single game, previously accomplishing the feat on Dec. 8, 2024, at the Los Angeles Rams. Allen has 75 career touchdowns , tying with Cam Newton for the most rushing touchdowns by a quarterback.
  • This is Allen’s 17th-career Offensive Player of the Week award, the most by any Bills player in franchise history and his second this season (Week 1).

DEFENSE: LB JORDYN BROOKS, MIAMI DOLPHINS

  • Brooks recorded 20 tackles during the Dolphins 16-13 overtime win over the Commanders in the NFL’s first regular season international game in Madrid, Spain. Brooks’ 20 tackles mark the second time he has had at least 20 tackles in a game (week 18, 2022 with Seattle). Brooks’ 20 tackles are the most in a single game this season.
  • This is Brooks’ second-career Defensive Player of the Week award and his second this season (Week 3).
  • Brooks is the fourth former Texas Tech player to win multiple Player of the Week awards, joining Patrick Mahomes (12-time winner), Jakeem Grant (three) and Zach Thomas (three).

SPECIAL TEAMS: K WIL LUTZ, DENVER BRONCOS 

  • Lutz converted all five field goal attempts – including a 54-yard field goal and a game-winning 35-yarder  – in Denver’s 22-19 win against Kansas City.
  • This is Lutz’s third AFC Special Teams Player of the Week award and seventh overall.
    • 2016: Weeks 6, 8 (Saints)
    • 2019: Week 1 (Saints)
    • 2020: Week 15 (Saints)
    • 2024: Weeks 3, 12 (Broncos)
    • 2025: Week 11 (Broncos)

2025 Outland Trophy Semifinalists Unveiled

By
Stephen Patrick
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OMAHA (FWAA) – Seven semifinalists for the 2025 Outland Trophy – five offensive linemen and two defensive tackles – were announced Wednesday by the Greater Omaha Sports Committee. The semifinalists are each from different schools within four conferences and are all centers, offensive tackles or defensive tackles.

The 2025 Outland Trophy is awarded annually to the nation’s best college interior lineman on offense or defense. The All-America Committee of the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA) selected the semifinalists.

The semifinalists will be pared to three finalists on Tues., Nov. 25. The recipient of the 2025 Outland Trophy will be announced on The Home Depot College Football Awards, live on ESPN on Dec. 12. The official presentation to the winner 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. 21, 2026.

The field for the 2025 Outland Trophy is as follows, alphabetically: offensive tackle Spencer Fano of Utah; center Logan Jones of Iowa; offensive tackle Iapani Laloulu of Oregon; defensive tackle Kayden McDonald of Ohio State; offensive tackle Kadyn Proctor of Alabama; defensive tackle Landon Robinson of Navy; and offensive tackle Carter Smith of Indiana.

Four of the seven linemen were named Outland Trophy Players of the Week during the season. The Outland Trophy is well represented at the players’ schools as four of the seven programs have winners in their past, with Alabama (six), Ohio State (four), Iowa (four) and Oregon (one) combining for 15 previous trophies, the most recent being Alabama offensive tackle Alex Leatherwood in 2020 and Oregon offensive tackle Penei Sewell in 2019.

Here is a glance at the seven semifinalists:

  • Spencer Fano, OT, Utah (#55, 6-6, 308, Jr., Spanish Fork, Utah): Fano is a dominating right tackle and a mainstay of the Utes’ offensive line for the past two seasons starting in 20 consecutive games there. He has 34 career starts in his 35 total games. One of the Utah captains, Fano has allowed just five pressures and five hurries on the quarterback and has yet to allow a sack in 245 pass blocking opportunities, per Pro Football Focus. He was the Outland Trophy National Player of the Week on the weekend of Nov. 1 following Utah’s 45-14 win over Cincinnati, earning PFF’s highest national grade while the Utes rolled up 480 total yards. The Utah offensive line he captains has been named the Big 12 Offensive Line of the Week three times (Sept. 2, Oct. 13, Oct. 27).

    The Utes have had one previous Outland Trophy finalist, offensive tackle Jordan Gross in 2002. Fano is coached by Jim Harding.

  • Logan Jones, C, Iowa (#65, 6-3, 302, Gr., Council Bluffs, Iowa): Another home-state lineman, Jones is regarded as the top center in the country and is the top-rated player at the position by PFF. Iowa has rushed for more than 200 yards four times this season with Jones steadying the middle as a game captain each week. He has 48 career starts in his 49 games played. Jones earned All-Big Ten recognition the past two seasons. He was the Outland Trophy National Player of the Week on the weekend of Oct. 25 following Iowa’s 41-3 win over Minnesota.

    Iowa has four former Outland winners and two previous finalists, last represented by the player Jones replaced as the starting center, Tyler Linderbaum in 2021. Its last Outland winner was offensive tackle Brandon Scherff in 2014. Jones is coached by George Barnett

  • Iapani Laloulu, OL, Oregon (#72, 6-2, 329, Jr., Honolulu, Hawaii): Laloulu is another top-flight center anchoring one of the country’s top offenses up front. Laloulu (pronounced LAH-low-oo-loo), who goes by his middle name Poncho, was the only returning full-time starter for Oregon coming into the season. In 1,012 career pass-blocking snaps, Laloulu has allowed just one sack and has given up just five pressures in 294 pass-blocking snaps this season. In Oregon’s dramatic win at Penn State earlier this season Laloulu had eight knockdown blocks and leads the team with 39 total. Oregon is third nationally averaging 7.36 yards per play this season.

    Oregon has one former Outland Trophy winner, offensive tackle Penei Sewell in 2019. Laloulu is coached by A’lique Terry.

  • Kayden McDonald, DT, Ohio State (#98, 6-3, 326, Jr., Suwanee, Ga.): McDonald leads the Ohio State linemen and is fourth on the team with 44 tackles, an impressive number from his defensive tackle position. He also lists third on the team with 8.0 tackles for loss and has 3.0 sacks. His two season-high tackle counts this season – eight – have come against Texas and Penn State and his season-high 3.0 TFL’s came at Washington along with 2.0 sacks.

    Ohio State has four former Outland Trophy winners, three of them from the offense including its last one, offensive tackle Orlando Pace in 1996. McDonald is coached by Larry Johnson.

  • Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama (#74, 6-7, 366, Jr., Des Moines, Iowa): Proctor has helped guide an offensive line that has Alabama producing the 11th-best passing offense nationally at 294.7 yards per game, also third in the SEC. Since Sept. 6, Proctor has allowed just one quarterback hit over his last 364 passing snaps while manning Ty Simpson’s blind side. He has the second-highest overall grade for offensive tackles by PFF. Proctor was the Outland Trophy National Player of the Week on the weekend of Oct. 25 after grading at 89 percent following Alabama’s 24-21 road win at Georgia while not allowing a sack or a hurry.

    Alabama has six previous Outland winners, the most recent being offensive tackle Alex Leatherwood in 2002. Five of the six winners have been offensive tackles. Proctor is coached by Chris Kapilovic.

  • Landon Robinson, DT, Navy (#96, 6-0, 287, Sr., Fairlawn, Ohio): Robinson is regarded as one of the most aggressive linemen in the nation. He’s the third-best pass-rushing interior defensive lineman per PFF with a grade of 85.7 and one of the top overall interior defensive linemen in the FBS. Well respected by teammates and foes alike, Robinson earned the designation of Navy’s Deputy Captain of the Captains by the team captains of the 36 varsity sports at the Naval Academy. Midshipmen still tell of Robinson’s performance in last season’s Army-Navy game where he had a career-high 13 tackle and was Navy’s 3rd-leading rusher with 29 yards on a fake punt.

    Navy has not had a finalist for the Outland Trophy in its past. Robinson is coached by Jerrick Hall and Va’a Niumatalolo

  • Carter Smith, OT, Indiana (#65, 6-5, 313, R-Jr., Powell, Ohio): Yet another line anchor at left tackle is Smith, a returning Honorable Mention All-Big Ten player who has started every game (36) since the start of 2023 season and been an understated player in Indiana’s rise to national prominence. Smith ranks as the No. 2-graded offensive lineman among the Power 4 programs per PFF at 89.4. Earlier this month at Maryland (11/1) Indiana rushed for 367 yards, its program-record fifth game of the season with 300-plus yards rushing. Smith was the Outland Trophy National Player of the Week for the weekend of Oct. 11 following the Hoosiers’ 30-20 road win at No. 3 Oregon.

    Indiana has one previous Outland Trophy finalist in offensive tackle Jason Spriggs from 2015. Smith is coached by Bob Bostad.

The Outland Trophy winner is chosen from finalists who are a part of the annual FWAA All-America Team. The FWAA All-America Committee, after voting input from the entire membership, selects a 26-man first team and eventually three Outland finalists. Committee members, then by individual ballot, select the winner. Only interior linemen on offense or defense are eligible for the award; ends are not eligible.

The Outland Trophy, celebrating 80 years since its founding, 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 (NCFAA), which encompasses college football’s most prestigious awards. The NCFAA’s 25 awards have honored more than 950 recipients since 1935. For more information about the NCFAA, visit ncfaa.org.

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The Greater Omaha Sports Committee, founded in 1977, is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, consisting of more than 1,300 men and women from the City of Omaha, the State of Nebraska, and others. The Committee serves to communicate, develop, initiate and promote sports activities in the Greater Omaha sports area. In addition to the Outland Trophy Award Events and Dinner, the Greater Omaha Sports Committee promotes high school, college, and professional sports in the Greater Omaha area and the Midwest.  For more information contact Bob Mancuso Jr., Chairman at bmancuso@showofficeonline.com or see showofficeonline.com.

Founded in 1941, the Football Writers Association of America consists of 1,300 men and women who cover college football. The membership includes journalists, broadcasters and publicists, as well as key executives in all the areas that involve the game. The FWAA works to govern areas that include game-day operations, major awards and its annual All-America team. For more information about the FWAA and its award programs, contact Steve Richardson at tiger@fwaa.com.

Which Alabama Players Could Get the Call on Draft Night?

By
Tobias Sanders
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Photo Cred: Alabama

Alabama is a NFL factory! Even though Nick Saban is no longer head coach. Kalen Deboer version is no different. Check out the best players who could get drafted in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Ty Simpson was named a team captain prior to the season, but fans didn’t yet realize the star they had on their hands. After the tough loss to the Seminoles, fans were looking for someone to blame, and Simpson was not exempt. Some even called for the team to start former five-star freshman quarterback Keelon Russell. Simpson had two games to win the fanbase back, and for the most part, he did—but everyone knew the real test would be the Georgia Bulldogs on the road.

Ty Simpson - Football - Alabama Athletics

Photo Cred: Alabama

Against Georgia, Simpson threw for 276 yards, two passing touchdowns, and added another on the ground while handing the Bulldogs their first home loss since 2019. Fans began calling him “Tyisman” after the performance vaulted him into the top three of the Heisman race. He has continued to be a leader throughout Alabama’s winning season, showing the Tide and the college football world the star who has been developing in the locker room since 2022.

A two-time captain who has been consistently productive for the Tide is Deontae Lawson. Lawson has started since his redshirt freshman season and showed steady improvement year after year until his junior season was cut short by a torn ACL. Before the injury, he was a semifinalist for the Butkus Award. While his stats have taken a slight dip since, he began regaining momentum midway through this season and forced a late-game fumble that helped Alabama complete a comeback win against South Carolina.

Lawson is a well-rounded linebacker who can defend the run and drop back effectively in zone coverage. Alabama has a strong history of producing elite offensive linemen, with Tyler Booker going 12th overall last year and JC Latham taken seventh the year before. Left tackle Kadyn Proctor looks to be the next Alabama lineman drafted in the first round, with CBS Sports projecting him at No. 25. Proctor has been a major part of the Tide’s offensive success through the air, surrendering just one sack this season.

NFL Draft 2026 Scouting Report for Alabama LB Deontae Lawson

Photo Cred: Bleacher Report

Alabama has even added packages featuring Proctor as the ball-handler, which have resulted in key first downs. Bray Hubbard was another player who faced intense criticism after the season opener when viral clips appeared to show him displaying a lack of effort during the loss. Hubbard quickly won the fans back, recording two interceptions against Wisconsin and forcing a fumble against Georgia that helped seal that victory.

Hubbard leads the Tide in interceptions with three and pass breakups with seven. While his stats may not jump off the page compared to other safeties nationally, his impact is clear when watching the games—he has repeatedly shifted momentum for the defense throughout the season. Another breakout player for the Tide has been wide receiver Germie Bernard.

Bernard transferred from Washington with Coach Kalen DeBoer after his sophomore season and immediately made an impact, leading the team with 50 receptions and finishing second with 794 receiving yards as a junior. He opened the season with eight catches for 146 yards and has remained Simpson’s go-to target in a loaded receiver room, leading the team in catches, receiving yards, and touchdowns with six receiving scores and two rushing. Bernard is an excellent route runner and a dangerous playmaker after the catch.

Who Will Decide the Game? Players to Watch for Arizona & UConn

By
Keegan Rathje
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Photo Cred: The Dunkel Index

Key Players

Arizona:
● Jaden Bradley – Through the first four games, Bradley has shown he is the most polished player on this versatile roster. The absence of Caleb Love has allowed him to truly take control of the offense and set a new pace that has been missing the last two years. His ability to finish through contact at the rim and knock down spot-up jumpers makes him very difficult to contain.

● Koa Peat – “Mr. Arizona” will look to bounce back after an underwhelming performance against UCLA. With his size and playmaking ability, Peat can impact the game without needing to score. He is aggressive on defense, but discipline and technique will be key if he wants to avoid foul trouble in this matchup.

Koa Peat - Men's Basketball - University of Arizona Athletics

Photo Cred: Arizona

● Motiejus Krivas – After missing all of last season with a foot injury, Krivas has shown why he is so valuable. His rebounding and rim protection help establish Arizona’s pace and tempo. Krivas excels in pick-and-roll situations, collapsing defenses and creating open looks for himself and his teammates.

UConn:
● Alex Karaban – Surprisingly back at UConn after withdrawing from the 2025 NBA Draft, Karaban enters this game as arguably the best player on the floor. He is shooting an incredible 62% from the field and 63% from three. His gravity, anticipation, and quick processing allow his teammates to get space in transition and in the half court, leading to efficient ball movement and open shots.

● Solo Ball – After a rough showing against BYU that included early foul trouble, Ball will look to make a statement against Arizona. With the Wildcats likely to throw tactical double-teams at Karaban, Ball could find himself in position to take over as a primary ball handler and playmaker. He is shooting over 30% from three on 6.5 attempts per game and will become a major problem if he starts hot.

● Tarris Reed Jr. – Coming off a big game against BYU, Reed Jr. has showcased all of his abilities. He is averaging 20 points on an outstanding 74% shooting and grabbing over nine rebounds per night. Nearly averaging a double-double, the senior is thriving in his second year at UConn and has become a defensive force who shuts down opposing bigs. If Reed Jr. maintains this efficiency, it could be a long night for Arizona in the paint.

UConn center Tarris Reed wants to play more like Adama Sanogo

Photo Cred: CT Insider

Outlooks

Arizona:
To win on the road, Arizona must minimize their weaknesses defending the pick-and-roll and eliminate unnecessary turnovers. The freshmen will play a critical role and will need to step up to validate the team’s Top-5 ranking. This will be the toughest program they have faced so far, and winning will come down to depth, ball control, and resilience while playing from behind.

The Wildcats are averaging nearly 14 turnovers per game, and that must improve quickly if they want to avoid falling behind early. They have shown impressive toughness in comeback wins over Florida and UCLA, rallying to victory both times. However, Gampel Pavilion is one of the toughest environments in college basketball, making any deficit difficult to overcome if UConn goes on a run. Arizona is determined to shed the “overrated” label, and there is no better way to do it than earning a road win against the Huskies.

UConn:
To protect their home court, UConn will need to increase tempo and physicality. They currently rank near the bottom of Division I in pace and possessions per game, which must change against Arizona—either by forcing turnovers to create transition opportunities or playing more aggressively in a run-and-gun style.

UConn’s experience must also present a challenge for Arizona’s young and talented roster, whose freshmen will be stepping into a national spotlight. The Huskies have won two of the last three national championships and are looking to reestablish themselves as a title favorite after a second-round exit last year. A win over Arizona would send exactly that message.

2025 Has Most-Watched NFL Network International Games Season On Record

By
Stephen Patrick
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Photo Cred: NFL
Average Viewership of 6.2 Million Viewers Across TV & Digital for the Six Games –
Up +32% Versus 2024 NFL Network International Games Average
Viewership of 5.9 Million Across TV & Digital for Washington Commanders-Miami Dolphins in Madrid –
Ranks as Top 5 NFL Network International Game on Record

INGLEWOOD, Calif. — Nov. 19, 2025 — The 2025 NFL International Games on NFL Network averaged 6.2 million viewers* (TV+Digital) across six games (one in Dublin, three in London, one in Berlin and one in Madrid) – ranking as the most-watched NFL Network International Games season average on record.

The 6.2 million average viewers is up +32% versus last year’s slate of international games on NFL Network.

Sunday’s game at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium in Madrid featuring the Miami Dolphins’ 16-13 overtime win over the Washington Commanders averaged 5.9 million viewers* (TV+Digital) – ranking as a top five NFL Network international game on record. Additionally, Commanders-Dolphins peaked with over eight million viewers in the final 13 minutes of the game.

For the latest news on NFL Media – comprising NFL Network, NFL Films, NFL.com, NFL+, the NFL app, NFL RedZone and free ad-supported television streaming service NFL Channel – please follow @NFLMedia on X and Instagram. Additionally, for general league news visit media.nfl.com.

*Viewership numbers on TV+Digital do NOT include OTA viewership. Source: Nielsen Big Data + Panel and Adobe Analytics.

Media Contact: Andrew Howard, Andrew.Howard@nfl.com

Wildcats vs. Huskies: Early Test of Championship Credibility

By
Keegan Rathje
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Photo Cred: SI

On Wednesday, the #4 Arizona Wildcats travel to Storrs to take on the #3 UConn Huskies in the first Top-5 matchup of the college basketball season. Arizona is in the midst of a gauntlet non-conference schedule, striving to prove that their roster is top-tier and deserving of recognition as a true March contender. Meanwhile, UConn is tired of being overlooked in the regular season due to not being in a Power 4 conference and is eager to assert their dominance on their home floor.

What to watch for when Arizona Wildcats men's basketball visits No. 3 UConn | Arizona Desert Swarm

Both programs enter the matchup coming off impressive wins against ranked opponents—BYU for Arizona and UCLA for UConn—leaving the winner with the strongest résumé in the nation. The victor of this duel is positioned to rise to #1 in the rankings, as Houston and Purdue have comparatively lighter non-conference schedules. With both teams built to battle elite competition, the question becomes: will UConn pull through and extend their streak to 10–0 in their last 10 matchups against Top-10 opponents?

Keys to the Game

Arizona:

● Keep the Tempo High
Playing at their preferred pace is Arizona’s biggest key. Establishing control early in a hostile environment will be crucial in dictating the flow of this Top-5 showdown. Midweek road games are never easy, and doing so in Storrs adds another challenge. The team that controls the tempo and sets the rhythm is likely to come out on top.

● Bench Production
Arizona may have the best depth in the nation, and they will need strong performances from Anthony Dell’Orso, Tobe Awaka, and Dwayne Aristode. Every member of the second unit has the potential to impact the game, and their contribution may be critical in keeping pace with the Huskies.

● Limit Turnovers
Turnovers were a noticeable problem against UCLA, where Arizona gave up the ball 15 times. While pushing the tempo is key to staying competitive on the road, smart ball movement and clean passing will create more possessions. In a Top-5 matchup, every possession matters. If Arizona limits UConn’s time with the ball, they will give themselves a strong chance to control the game.

UConn Announces Home-and-Home With Arizona - University of Connecticut Athletics

Photo Cred: UConn Huskies

UConn:

● Home Court Advantage
Arizona has not played a true road game this season, with all previous games being at home or neutral sites. That gives UConn the chance to create an atmosphere that the Wildcats’ star freshmen will have to adjust to quickly. Dan Hurley’s teams are notoriously difficult to beat in Storrs, and he will rely on his roster and the crowd to seize a distinct home-court edge.

● 3-Point Efficiency
UConn comes into the game ranked 32nd nationally in 3-point shooting at 40.2%. If the Huskies continue that elite accuracy, it will stretch the defense, free up their big men in the post, and open spacing in the midrange. With more space, Arizona’s defense will struggle to stay composed.

● Utilize Experience
Unlike Arizona, UConn has an experienced roster, with only freshman Eric Reibe seeing rotation minutes. Targeting underclassmen like Koa Peat, Brayden Burries, and Dwayne Aristode may not only limit their production but also create mismatches on the offensive end.

Week 12 NFL Preview and Capsules

By
Stephen Patrick
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Photo Cred: USA Today

NEW YORK — Nov. 18, 2025 — Sunday of Week 11 was one of the most competitive, exciting days in NFL history as five teams recorded a game-winning score on the final play– Carolina, Chicago, Denver, Houston, and Miami – tied for the most on a single day all-time (Week 10, 2023; Week 4, 2018). There have been 43 games with a game-winning score in the final two minutes of regulation or in overtime this season, the most-ever through Week 11.

Week 12 is set to feature five games between teams that have a .500-or-better record, including two games, Pittsburgh at Chicago and Tampa Bay at the Los Angeles Rams, between division-leading teams. Of the five teams with at least eight wins this season, three – Indianapolis, New England and Philadelphia – are on the road.

For Week 12 capsules, click here.

Here’s a look at a few interesting storylines entering Week 12:

  • Indianapolis (8-2) at Kansas City (5-5) (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, CBS): The Colts lead the NFL with 32.1 points per game and 396.9 total yards of offense per game, paced by the league’s leading passer, quarterback Daniel Jones (265.9 passing yards per game) and leading rusher, running back Jonathan Taylor (113.9 rushing yards per game).
    • In Week 10 in Berlin, Taylor set a franchise record with 286 scrimmage yards (244 rushing, 42 receiving) and became the fourth player in NFL history with three touchdowns in five games within a single season, joining Pro Football Hall of Famers LaDainian Tomlinson (six games in 2006) and Marshall Faulk (five in 2000) as well as Chuck Foreman (five in 1975).
    • Taylor, who had 20 scrimmage touchdowns in 2021, leads the NFL with 17 scrimmage touchdowns and with three more touchdowns this season, can become the sixth player ever with at least 20 scrimmage touchdowns in multiple seasons, joining Pro Football Hall of Famers Marshall Faulk, Emmitt Smith and LaDainian Tomlinson as well as Shaun Alexander and Priest Holmes.
    • Kansas City quarterback Patrick Mahomes has 40,791 career passing yards, including the playoffs, and can surpass Pro Football Hall of Famer Peyton Manning (41,082) for the most passing yards, including the postseason, by a player in his first nine seasons in NFL history.
    • Mahomes has 1,112 passing yards (278 per game) and 13 touchdown passes for a 121.9 rating in his past four at home, with at least 250 passing yards and three touchdown passes in each game.  Only three players all-time –Steve Beuerlein (1999 with Carolina), Drew Brees (2015 with New Orleans) and Aaron Rodgers (2011 with Green Bay) – have at least 250 passing yards and three touchdown passes in five consecutive home games within a single season.
  • New England (9-2) at Cincinnati (3-7) (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, CBS): The Patriots enter Week 12 having won eight consecutive games, tied with Denver (on a bye this week) for the longest active winning streak in the NFL. New England is 5-0 on the road this season, the only team with an undefeated road record in 2025.
    • New England can become the second team in NFL history to win nine consecutive games with at least 23 points scored and 23-or-less points allowed in each game, joining the 1961 Houston Oilers.
    • Patriots quarterback Drake Maye, who leads the NFL with 2,836 passing yards and ranks second among qualified passers with a 113.2 rating, can become the third quarterback under the age of 24 with at least 10 games of 200-or-more passing yards and a passer rating of 100-or-higher in NFL history, joining Patrick Mahomes (13 games in 2018) and Matthew Stafford (10 games in 2011).
    • New England rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson, who had two rushing touchdowns in Week 10 and three touchdowns (two rushing, one receiving) in Week 11, can become the third rookie in the Super Bowl era with multiple rushing touchdowns in three consecutive games, joining Mike Anderson (2000 with Denver) and Pro Football Hall of Famer Curtis Martin (1995 with New England).
  • Philadelphia (8-2) at Dallas (4-5-1) (4:25 p.m. ET, FOX): The Eagles defeated the Cowboys, 24-20, to open the 2025 season as quarterback Jalen Hurts rushed for two touchdowns in the victory. Philadelphia head coach Nick Sirianni has 56 regular-season wins since being hired by the team in 2021 and with a win, can tie Pro Football Hall of Famer Paul Brown (57) for the second-most regular-season wins by a head coach in his first five seasons all-time, trailing only George Seifert (62).
    • Hurts, who has 16 touchdown passes this season, is one of six quarterbacks all-time with at least 250 pass attempts and only one interception in his team’s first 10 games of a season, joining Drew Brees (2018 with New Orleans), Justin Herbert (2024 the L.A. Chargers), Bernie Kosar (1991 with Cleveland), Patrick Mahomes (2019 with Kansas City) and Aaron Rodgers (2018 with Green Bay).
    • Dallas quarterback Dak Prescott recorded four touchdown passes and a season-high 138.6 rating in Week 11. Since entering the NFL in 2016, he is one of three with at least three touchdown passes in 40-or-more games (41), joining Patrick Mahomes (46 games) and Aaron Rodgers (41).
  • Tampa Bay (6-4) at the Los Angeles Rams (8-2) (8:20 p.m. ET, NBC): The Rams have won five consecutive games, the longest active win streak in the NFC, and rank second in the NFL in scoring defense (17.2 points per game allowed) entering Week 12
    • Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford leads the NFL with 27 touchdown passes this season and can become the first since Tom Brady (2021 with Tampa Bay) with at least 30 touchdown passes in his team’s first 11 games of a season.
    • Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Davante Adams recorded his 10th touchdown reception of the season, his 1,000th career reception, last week and became the fifth wide receiver in NFL history with at least 1,000 receptions in their first 12 seasons, joining Pro Football Hall of Famers Jerry Rice (1,050 receptions), Marvin Harrison (1,042) and Andre Johnson (1,012) as well as Larry Fitzgerald (1,018).
    • Adams is one of five players in NFL history with at least 10 touchdown receptions in seven career seasons, joining Pro Football Hall of Famers Randy Moss (nine seasons), Jerry Rice (nine), Marvin Harrison (eight) and Terrell Owens (eight).
  • Pittsburgh (6-4) at Chicago (7-3) (1 p.m. ET, CBS): The Steelers-Bears matchup is one of two, along with Buccaneers-Rams, in Week 12 between division-leading teams. Chicago leads the NFL in takeaways (22) and turnover differential (+16) this season, the fourth-highest turnover differential by a team in its first 10 games of a season in the past 20 years (2006-25).
    • The Bears have won six of their past seven games, with five of the wins featuring the game-winning score in the final two minutes of the fourth quarter or overtime. Since 1970, only seven teams have had more wins with the game-winning score in the final two minutes of regulation or in overtime in a single season.
  • Carolina (6-5) at San Francisco (7-4) (8:15 p.m. ET, ESPN): Carolina and San Francisco are two of the seven teams that missed the postseason in 2024 with a winning record this season.
    • Last week, Panthers quarterback Bryce Young recorded a franchise-record 448 passing yards and rookie wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan became the sixth rookie since 2000 with at least eight receptions, 130 receiving yards and two touchdown receptions in a game, joining Odell Beckham Jr. (three times), Anquan Boldin, Ja’Marr Chase, Justin Jefferson and Roy Williams.
    • San Francisco running back Christian McCaffrey leads the NFL with 1,439 scrimmage yards and ranks tied for second with 11 scrimmage touchdowns (six rushing, five receiving). He has four career seasons with at least five rushing touchdowns and five receiving touchdowns, surpassing Pro Football Hall of Famer Marshall Faulk (three seasons) for the most such seasons in NFL history. 
  • New York Jets (2-8) at Baltimore (5-5) (1 p.m. ET, CBS): The Ravens have won four consecutive games and are the fifth team in the past six seasons (2020-25) to reach a .500 record after beginning 1-5, joining the 2023 Denver Broncos, 2022 Detroit Lions, 2021 Miami Dolphins and 2020 Minnesota Vikings. 
    • Baltimore is one of five teams, along with Carolina, Chicago, Houston and Kansas City, with a .500-or-better entering Week 12 after beginning the season 0-2.
    • Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson has 26 TDs (25 passing, one rushing) and a 121.7 rating in his past 10 home starts, with at least two touchdown passes in each of his past seven at home. He can become the first quarterback since Drew Brees (2018) with at least three touchdown passes, no interceptions and a passer rating of 125-or-higher in three consecutive home starts.
    • Baltimore running back Derrick Henry has a rushing touchdown in 83 career games, including the playoffs, tied with Pro Football Hall of Famer John Riggins (83 games) for the fifth-most games with a rushing touchdown, including the postseason, in NFL history. Only Pro Football Hall of Famers Emmitt Smith (130 games), Marcus Allen (100) and LaDainian Tomlinson (96), as well as Adrian Peterson (89) have more.

Media Contact: Sam Drexler, NFL; Sam.Drexler@NFL.com

Indiana Back-to-Back: Contenders or Pretenders?

By
Will Siegel
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Photo Cred: SI

Second Year in a Row

The culture shift in Indiana Football happened—and it happened fast. After three straight seasons failing to qualify for a bowl game (requiring six regular-season wins), the Hoosiers fired head coach Tom Allen and signed James Madison head coach Curt Cignetti to a massive contract. Following an overhaul—including 37 departures and 31 newcomers—Indiana shocked the country, going an impressive 10-0 before ultimately losing to Ohio State and finishing 11-2 after a playoff loss to Notre Dame.

This season, with another 27 departures and 33 newcomers (freshmen and transfers), Indiana is once again surprising the nation. Through Week 12, the Hoosiers are 11-0 for the first time in program history and ranked second in the AP Poll. Their offense ranks ninth in the country in total points scored, and their defense is fourth nationally, dominating on both sides of the ball and allowing just 249 total yards per game.

Indiana's 2025 Football Schedule Is Set By Big Ten

Photo Cred: SI

Last week, Indiana dominated the Wisconsin Badgers 31-7, securing their seventh win by 21 or more points. With a rivalry matchup next week against a struggling Purdue team, the Hoosiers are optimistic they will enter the Big Ten Championship Game at 12-0—likely facing Ohio State once again. Indiana has been on a roll all season!

Are They Contenders?

Indiana’s strength of schedule currently ranks 38th in the country. Outside of early non-conference warm-up games, Indiana has played three teams with winning records—Iowa, Illinois, and Oregon—and won all three. Fernando Mendoza leads the country with 30 passing touchdowns, and the Hoosiers’ offense is loaded with weapons.

Elijah Sarratt is generating serious draft buzz, and the team has made beatdowns seem routine. However, the same concern that followed them last year remains: Indiana still hasn’t consistently beaten top-tier competition. Yes, they went undefeated in the regular season last year, but they did so against the bottom eight teams in the Big Ten before being thoroughly outclassed by Ohio State and Notre Dame, the only ranked opponents they faced.

Elijah Sarratt - Football - Indiana University Athletics

Photo Cred: Indiana

This season, they beat Illinois when the Illini were ranked ninth, though they later fell out of the rankings before reemerging at No. 21. They also defeated a winning Iowa squad, though the Hawkeyes are not ranked. Their biggest win is against Oregon—whose best victories are Penn State or Iowa, neither particularly defining. So while Indiana has dominated nearly everyone in their path and proven themselves against good opponents, they still have not faced a true championship-caliber team.

The looming matchup in the Big Ten Championship against Ohio State will be the true test. A win—or even a competitive loss—will prove to analysts and fans that Indiana has leveled up from last season. But another blowout defeat will reinforce the narrative that the Hoosiers are good, but not quite elite.

Purdue’s Smith headlines Oscar Robertson Trophy National Players of the Week

By
Stephen Patrick
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INDIANAPOLIS (USBWA) – The U.S. Basketball Writers Association has named five Oscar Robertson National Players of the Week for games of the week ending Sunday, Nov. 9.

For the 2025-26 season, the USBWA continues its national player of the week program that has been affiliated with the Oscar Robertson Trophy since the 2009-10 season. Prior to the 2024-25 season, the USBWA had recognized just one player each week.

Each Tuesday during the regular season, designated USBWA board members will select five standouts from the 31 Division I conference players of the week to be recognized. This week’s selections were chosen from a list of the conferences that named a player of the week on Monday.

Following are the five players selected for performances this past week ending Nov. 16:

Cameron Boozer, Duke (ACC)
Boozer averaged 25.0 points, 10.5 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 2.5 steals and 2.5 blocked shots per game during a 2-0 week while shooting 70.8% from the field and 50.0% on 3-point attempts. He put up 35 points, 12 rebounds, five assists, three steals and three blocks, connecting on 13-of-16 field goals in a 100-62 win against Indiana State on Friday. He’s the first major conference freshman to reach 30 points, 10 rebounds and five assists with no more than one turnover since Carmelo Anthony of Syracuse in 2003. Boozer now joins Zion Williamson (2019) and Christian Laettner (1990) as the third Duke player in the past 45 years to record 30 points and 10 rebounds in a game. The 35 points is tied for second among Duke’s freshman single-game scoring leaders. In last Tuesday’s action, he tallied 15 points, nine boards, four assists, two steals and two rejections playing 26 minutes in a 114-59 victory at Army,

Mikel Brown, Louisville (ACC)
Brown had a dominating week in the Cardinals’ 96-88 win over No. 9/8 Kentucky and a 106-81 victory over Ohio, averaging 24.0 points and 6.0 assists per game. Against Kentucky Brown led all scorers with 29 points, dishing out five assists with two rebounds and commiting just one turnover. Hitting 10-of-11 free throws boosted his point total. From the hard-to-find stats department, the 29 points are the fourth-most points by any ACC freshman against a top 10 non-conference opponent since 2010-11. Last Saturday against Ohio, he neared a double-double with 19 points and seven assists hitting 3-of-6 trey attempts with a steal. Brown was also named the USBWA’s Wayman Tisdale National Freshman Player of the Week by CBS Sports.

Kingston Flemings, Houston (Big 12)
Flemings led the Cougars in scoring and assists, averaging 20.0 points, 8.0 assists and 5.0 rebounds per game in wins over Oakland and No. 22/25 Auburn. He opened the week with 19 points on 8-of-12 shooting from the field while he notched a career-high nine assists without a turnover against the Golden Grizzlies. The freshman from San Antonio then helped UH capture a neutral-site victory over the Tigers with a game-winning block to secure a 73-72 win. Flemings tallied a career-high 22 points, a game-high seven assists and grabbed five defensive boards in 34 minutes. He is the league’s first player to earn both Big 12 honors in the same week in their collegiate debut season since 2021.

Delrecco Gillespie, Kent State (Mid-American)
Just five games into the 2025-26 season, Gillespie has posted a double-double in all five appearances, including another three this past week to tie for the national lead. Gillespie tallied 12 points and 12 rebounds against UNCW, 30 points (a new career high) and 13 rebounds against Cleveland State, and 26 points and 17 rebounds against Wright state. Over three Kent State victories he totaled 68 points and 42 boards while converting on 26 of 41 field goal attempts.

Braden Smith, Purdue (Big Ten)
Smith averaged 22.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 7.5 assists as Purdue scored a pair of wins, incluiding an 87-80 win at No. 8 Alabama, a fellow Final Four participant last season. Smith scored 29 points against the Crimson Tide, including 21 in the second half. He had his 19th career double-double with 16 points and 10 assists in a win over defending MAC champion and preseason favorite Akron.

Since the 1958-59 season, the USBWA has named a National Player of the Year. In 1998, the award was named in honor of the University of Cincinnati Hall of Famer and two-time USBWA Player of the Year Oscar Robertson. It is the nation’s oldest award and the only one named after a former player.

At the conclusion of the regular season, the USBWA will name finalists for the award, which is voted on by the entire membership. The winner of the award will be announced at the 2026 Men’s Final Four in Indianapolis, with the formal presentation to follow at the annual USBWA Awards Luncheon hosted by the Missouri Athletic Club in St. Louis.

The U.S. Basketball Writers Association was formed in 1956 at the urging of then-NCAA Executive Director Walter Byers. With some 800 members worldwide, it is one of the most influential organizations in college basketball. It has selected an All-America team since the 1956-57 season. For more information on the USBWA and the Oscar Robertson Trophy, contact executive director Malcolm Moran at 814-574-1485.

2025-26 USBWA Men’s Weekly Honors
• Week ending Nov. 9: TJ Long, Vermont; Koa Peat, Arizona; Labaron Philon Jr., Alabama; Bruce Thornton, Ohio State; Caleb Wilson, North Carolina.
• Week ending Nov. 16: Cameron Boozer, Duke; Mikel Brown, Louisville (ACC); Kingston Flemings, Houston (Big 12); Delrecco Gillespie, Kent State (Mid-American); Braden Smith, Purdue (Big Ten).

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