LSU Eyes Top Seed as March Madness Nears

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February 2, 2025

c49c8138-wb_ky_6543_013025_19001768 — Photo Cred: LSU

ESPN’s SportsCenter was live at LSU on Thursday, setting the stage for an exciting SEC showdown between No. 7 LSU and No. 13 Oklahoma. Ahead of the highly anticipated game, LSU Guards Aneesah Morrow and Flau’Jae Johnson sat down for an interview with Christine Williamson, where they discussed their mindset heading into the contest. “We know what we are capable of,” Morrow said confidently. “We have to stay disciplined and execute our offense.” The players’ focus on discipline and execution would prove pivotal as LSU came out on top with a thrilling 107-100 victory.

Photo Cred: CBS Sports

The game, which was intense from start to finish, was marked by drama, including two player ejections, an intentional foul call, and technical fouls assessed to both head coaches, Jennie Baranczyk of Oklahoma and LSU’s Kim Mulkey. Despite the heated moments, LSU’s offensive firepower was too much for the Sooners to overcome. The Tigers relied on a stellar performance from their star trio—Mikaylah Williams, Flau’Jae Johnson, and Aneesah Morrow—who combined for an impressive 83 points to keep Oklahoma at bay.

Oklahoma’s Payton Verhulst put on a standout performance for the Sooners, finishing with a team-high 26 points. Reagan Beers also contributed significantly, recording 20 points and 7 rebounds in the losing effort. However, despite their best efforts, Oklahoma couldn’t match LSU’s offensive explosion. The 107 points scored by LSU marked a new milestone in program history, as it set a new record for the most points ever scored in an SEC game by the Tigers, surpassing the previous record of 106 points scored against Florida last season.

Photo Cred: OU

Thursday’s game also marked only the fourth time in LSU’s history that both teams managed to reach the 100-point mark. Flau’Jae Johnson, who continues to be a standout for LSU, is currently the Tigers’ leading scorer, averaging 19.7 points per game, which ranks fifth in the SEC. Her consistent scoring has been a key factor in LSU’s success this season, with Johnson having scored in double figures in an impressive 31 consecutive games. Alongside her, Aneesah Morrow has been dominant, averaging 18.5 points per game (6th in SEC) and leading the nation in rebounds with 14.0 rebounds per game.

Morrow has also set a remarkable record with 19 double doubles so far this season, showcasing her ability to contribute across the board. As LSU continues to thrive, it’s clear that their combination of offensive firepower and relentless defense makes them a formidable force in the SEC. With the talent and mindset, they displayed in Thursday’s victory, the Tigers are a team to watch as the season progresses.

Duke Showing Signs of Struggles Despite Continued Winning

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Michael DiNatale

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February 2, 2025

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ss_20250201_204304246_2766232 — Photo Cred: Duke

Duke Basketball has been dominant in the ACC this season. The Blue Devils are currently ranked No. 2 behind Auburn. With the top recruiting class of 2025, a solid mix of transfers filling out the bench, and, of course, the projected No. 1 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, Cooper Flagg, it’s no surprise that Duke has enjoyed such a successful season. However, despite their strong record, the Blue Devils have encountered some offensive struggles in their last two games.

Photo Cred: NBC Sports

The Blue Devils traveled to Wake Forest and earned a hard-fought 63-56 win. Wake Forest has been a solid opponent, sitting at 7-3 in conference play. Duke shot a season-low 36.8% from the field and turned the ball over 16 times. Despite the poor shooting performance, Duke’s defense remained sharp, holding Wake Forest to just 56 points on 37% shooting. It was an uncharacteristically off night for the Blue Devils offensively, but they still managed to come out with the win. Given the number of first-year players in the lineup, it’s expected that Duke will experience games like this from time to time.

However, the struggles didn’t end there. Duke hosted NC State, which was looking for its third ACC win. NC State played Duke closely, leading at halftime before the Blue Devils regained control in the second half. Duke ultimately won 74-64, but NC State stayed in the game throughout. Duke shot just 39% from the field and committed 10 turnovers. The Blue Devils had been shooting over 50% in every game since their 82-56 win at Georgia Tech on December 21st, so these back-to-back offensive struggles have raised some questions. Key players, such as Tyrese Proctor, have struggled, with Proctor shooting just 3-for-18 over the last two games. The question now is: has Duke begun to slow down offensively?

While the last two games show Duke is vulnerable, it’s clear that simply forcing poor shooting nights isn’t enough to beat them. The Blue Devils’ size and athleticism on defense make them tough to score against. Currently ranked 5th in the country in defensive efficiency, Duke forces opponents to earn every point in the paint while also boasting an explosive offense. Despite their offensive struggles, the Blue Devils have shown they can win even when not playing their best basketball.

Photo Cred: AP

Duke blew out their biggest rival, the UNC Tar Heels, in a highly anticipated rivalry game. The intensity of the rivalry brought out the best in Duke, and the offense should be sharper as a result. The recent offensive slumps have shown that Duke is capable of winning even when not firing on all cylinders, demonstrating just how talented this team is. With their strength on both sides of the ball, a perfect 20-0 ACC record could still be within reach for the Blue Devils.

Super Bowl Showdown: Eagles vs. Chiefs is Upon Us

By

Arnav Sarkar

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February 2, 2025

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Two seasons ago, the Chiefs defeated the Eagles 38-35 in one of the most thrilling Super Bowls in recent memory. Since then, both teams have only gotten stronger. The Chiefs have added several playmakers on offense, while their already dominant defense has stepped up to another level this season. Despite not always dominating weaker competition and often winning in close games, the Chiefs racked up 15 wins, made sure the AFC again ran through Arrowhead, and turned it up in the postseason, knocking off strong contenders in the Texans and Bills to give themselves a chance at a historic third consecutive Super Bowl victory.

Photo Cred: CBS Sports

The Eagles, meanwhile, are back in the Big Game after a disappointing finish to last season, but this year they look better than ever. Saquon Barkley, after joining from the Giants, has had a historic season, and the Eagles’ defense features a revamped secondary behind their ferocious front seven. In a dominant 55-23 win over the Commanders, the Eagles showed their full strength, forcing three Washington fumbles and showcasing their prowess on both sides of the ball. The Chiefs, on the other hand, edged out a 32-29 thriller over the Bills, quieting any remaining doubts about their ability to compete at the highest level.

Here’s what to expect when each team has the football, and who might come out on top.

Chiefs Offense vs. Eagles Defense:

The Chiefs are coming off their best offensive performance of the season, putting up over 30 points for the first time. They approached their playoff games differently: In the win over the Texans, it was the Mahomes-Kelce show. Though aided by some favorable calls, Mahomes showed his usual improvisational brilliance, finding Xavier Worthy five times for 45 yards, but the standout connection was with tight end Travis Kelce. As usual, Kelce came up big, with 117 yards and a touchdown on just seven catches, including a highlight-reel score as he fell to the ground. Running back Kareem Hunt played a crucial role in keeping the offense balanced, contributing 44 yards on eight carries and a touchdown.

In the AFC Championship game, the Chiefs relied more on Hunt, who had 17 carries for 64 yards and a touchdown. Receiver Xavier Worthy was also used creatively, recording six catches for 85 yards and a touchdown. Mahomes added two rushing touchdowns of his own, something we haven’t seen much of in recent years, while other receivers like JuJu Smith-Schuster and Hollywood Brown also made key contributions. This was a more balanced effort compared to the Texans game, with Mahomes spreading the ball around as Kelce was somewhat neutralized by the defense.

Photo Cred: ESPN

Expect a middle ground for the Super Bowl. The Eagles bring the best defense the Chiefs have faced all season, with a relentless defensive line led by Jalen Carter and Josh Sweat. Linebackers like Zach Baun, a knack for forcing turnovers, and a secondary featuring veterans Darius Slay and Chauncey Gardner-Johnson (along with emerging rookies like Cooper DeJean and Quinyon Mitchell) make the Eagles defense formidable at all levels.

The Chiefs will need to be versatile to break down this defense. Keeping the offense two-dimensional will be crucial, with Kareem Hunt setting the tone on the ground and former Rutgers star Isiah Pacheco spelling him to keep him fresh. The Chiefs’ offensive line is solid inside but has a potential weakness at left tackle, where Joe Thuney has shifted to shore up the spot, with Mike Caliendo stepping in at left guard.

Through the air, Mahomes has a variety of weapons at his disposal. Worthy can be dangerous catching passes out of the backfield or using his speed on deep routes. Hollywood Brown is a reliable intermediate target, while DeAndre Hopkins can still make highlight-worthy catches downfield. Then there are JuJu Smith-Schuster and Justin Watson, two more pieces that keep defenses guessing. And, of course, Mahomes will always have his favorite target: Travis Kelce. Kelce, the quarterback’s ultimate safety blanket, will always find ways to get open over the middle and is sure to make a few key plays when it matters most.

While the Chiefs’ offense might not be as explosive as in past years, they have a diverse array of weapons and the best quarterback in the league, capable of making the right decision at the right time. With Mahomes’ ability to extend plays and read defenses, Kansas City’s offense should still be able to put up points, even against a defense as talented as the Eagles. In fact, they may very well top 30 points for the second game in a row.

Kampe-less Golden Grizzlies Extinguish Lowly Phoenix

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Noah Stalker

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February 1, 2025

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The Oakland Golden Grizzlies took care of business, delivering a commanding 68-54 win over the Green Bay Phoenix. The victory was never in serious doubt, but it didn’t start out that way, as the first half was highly competitive, with both teams exchanging runs. Green Bay jumped out to an early lead, playing with confidence and forcing Oakland to weather the storm.

However, the Golden Grizzlies quickly found their rhythm, tightening their defense and answering with a flurry of offensive plays to end the first half. Despite the Phoenix’s early push, the game was tied at 29-29 going into the break. Once the second half began, Oakland showed why they are one of the top teams in the Horizon League. They completely took control of the game, outscoring Green Bay 39-25 in the final 20 minutes. The Phoenix had no answer for the Golden Grizzlies’ offensive barrage, as Oakland’s shooting, ball movement, and defensive pressure overwhelmed their opponents.

Leading the charge for Oakland were DQ Cole and Allen Mukeba, who combined for 34 points. Cole had an efficient night, finishing with 18 points, while Mukeba added 16, showcasing his versatility both inside and on the perimeter. The two were instrumental in Oakland’s offensive attack and kept Green Bay on the backfoot throughout the second half. For Green Bay, it was a struggle. Jeremiah Johnson was the lone bright spot for the Phoenix, finishing with 16 points to lead his team.

Despite his efforts, the Phoenix couldn’t find any consistent offensive support, and their defense was unable to slow down Oakland’s dynamic playmakers. What made Oakland’s win even more impressive was the absence of head coach Greg Kampe. Kampe was suspended by the Horizon League after an altercation with a referee during Saturday’s game against Robert Morris. Despite his absence, the Golden Grizzlies showed resilience and never missed a beat, proving their depth and ability to play without their head coach on the sidelines.

With the win, Oakland improves to 7-5 in Horizon League play, putting them in a solid position for a playoff push. On the other hand, Green Bay’s losing streak continues, as they drop their 18th straight game and fall to 0-12 in conference play. The Phoenix have now lost every single one of their Horizon League matchups this season, a daunting statistic that will make their upcoming games crucial in their quest for a win. The Golden Grizzlies are hoping to build on this momentum as they move forward in conference play, while Green Bay remains in desperate need of a turnaround as they fight to salvage their season.

NFL Coaching Carousel: Latest Hires and Updates

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Stephen Patrick

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January 31, 2025

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The 2024 NFL regular season has concluded, and with it comes the inevitable wave of head coach changes. Seven teams have made the decision to part ways with their head coaches, signaling a new era of leadership for these franchises. While six of those vacancies have already been filled, the New Orleans Saints remain the only team still searching for a new head coach.

Here’s a look at the coaching changes across the league:

Dallas Cowboys

New Coach: Brian Schottenheimer

Photo Cred: Fox Sports

The Cowboys had a horrible season. QB Dak Prescott was lost early in the season and the season was lost. The Cowboys opted not to resign Mike Mccarthy after three straight 12-win seasons before this season. Brian Schottenheimer will now oversee the Cowboys. Known for his offensive mind. The challenge is no head coaching experience at any level. Schottenheimer inherits a talented roster with playoff experience.

Las Vegas Raiders

New Coach: Pete Carroll

The Raiders hired veteran head coach Pete Carroll to steer their franchise moving forward in shocking move. Carroll will become the oldest head coach in the NFL history at 73. He brings a wealth of experience leading the Seattle Seahawks to a Super Bowl title. He will bring stability and a strong defensive identity. His leadership will be crucial in helping the Raiders build culture and return to playoff contention. They should have a coach in waiting to take over the team.

Jacksonville Jaguars

New Coach: Liam Coen

Liam Coen was a star in coaching circles. He was going to return to Tampa Bay but decided to leave. With a background as an offensive coordinator, Coen will look to develop the Jaguars’ young talent. His ability to maximize quarterback Trevor Lawrence’s potential will be key.

New York Jets

New Coach: Aaron Glenn

Photo Cred: USA Today

The Jets had a difficult season. As they turn to future they have chosen Aaron Glenn, Green is a former Pro Bowl defensive back for the Jets and the former defensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions. Glenn’s leadership skills will be essential in helping the Jets’ defense live up to its potential. But the defense was never the problem. It was the offense, and the big question is whether Aaron Rodgers will return or not. Glenn’s experience as a former player gives him a unique perspective on motivating players.

Chicago Bears

New Coach: Ben Johnson

Ben Johnson, the former offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, is the new head coach of the Chicago Bears. Known for his innovative offensive schemes, Johnson will be tasked with revitalizing the Bears’ offense and developing quarterback Justin Fields into a top-tier signal caller. Johnson’s offensive acumen will be put to the test as he attempts to turn the Bears into a competitive force in the NFC.

New England Patriots

New Coach: Mike Vrabel

The Patriots made a bold move by hiring Mike Vrabel, the former head coach of the Tennessee Titans. Vrabel, known for his tough, physical style of play and success in Tennessee, will look to bring a more disciplined and hard-nosed approach to New England. The Patriots have a rich history of success, and Vrabel will be expected to restore the team to its former glory with a focus on both defense and a balanced offense.

New Orleans Saints

Job Still Open

Photo Cred: Yahoo Sports

The New Orleans Saints are the only team left with an open head coaching position. With the team in transition after the departure of longtime coach Sean Payton, the Saints’ next hire will be crucial in determining their future direction. As of now, no official replacement has been announced, but the job is one of the more intriguing vacancies remaining due to the team’s talented roster and championship aspirations.

Kendrick Lamar Set to Blaze the Super Bowl Halftime

By

Stephen Patrick

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January 31, 2025

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Ahead of the upcoming Super Bowl LIX halftime show, VegasInsider.com has conducted a survey of 3000+ NFL fans, and according to the results of the survey:

Eminem is the most wanted guest performer for Kendrick Lamar’s halftime show (20.37% of votes) followed by Beyoncé (12.71% of votes) and Taylor Swift (12.31% of votes)
“Bit*h, Don’t Kill My Vibe” is the most wanted song for Kendrick Lamar to perform during his halftime show setlist (12.25% of votes), followed by “Not Like Us” (12.08% of votes), “All The Stars” (9.45% of votes) and “HUMBLE.” (7.39% of votes)
“Bit*h, Don’t Kill My Vibe” was also the most popular song choice in the most US states (21), while Eminem was the most popular guest performer choice in the most US states (34)
25 NFL fandoms had Eminem as their #1 most popular guest performer choice and “Not Like Us” was the most chosen song by the most NFL fandoms (14) to be performed by Kendrick Lamar during the halftime show
When looking at this year’s Super Bowl teams and their choices, supporters of Kansas City Chiefs had Taylor Swift as their most wanted halftime show guest & their most wanted song for Lamar’s setlist was “Bit*h, Don’t Kill My Vibe”, while the fans of Philadelphia Eagles had “Not Like Us” as their most wanted song & Eminem as the most wanted guest performer

To see the full survey results, which include interactive maps and tables showing the results state by state in detail, please have a look here.

Feel free to use our data and please credit VegasInsider.com if you decide to do so. Thank you!

TOP 10 MOST WANTED SONGS TO BE PERFORMED BY KENDRICK LAMAR DURING HIS HALFTIME SHOW SETLIST:

Ranking	Song Name	% of total votes
1.	“Bit*h, Don’t Kill My Vibe”	12.25%
2.	“Not Like Us”	12.08%
3.	“All the Stars” (feat. SZA)	9.45%
4.	“HUMBLE.”	7.39%
5.	“Bad Blood” (Taylor Swift feat. Kendrick Lamar)	6.49%
6.	“30 for 30” (SZA feat. Kendrick Lamar)	5.49%
7.	“Alright”	5.12%
8.	“Die Hard” (feat. Blxst & Amanda Reifer)	4.96%
9.	“DNA.”	4.73%
10.	“Euphoria”	4.56%

TOP 10 MOST WANTED GUEST PERFORMERS FOR KENDRICK LAMAR’S HALFTIME SHOW:

Ranking	Artist	% of votes
1.	Eminem	20.37%
2.	Beyoncé	12.71%
3.	Taylor Swift	12.31%
4.	Dr. Dre	11.58%
5.	Lil Wayne	10.42%
6.	Drake	9.92%
7.	Rihanna	9.88%
8.	2Chainz	8.59%
9.	ASAP Rocky	7.45%
10.	U2	6.92%

METHODOLOGY

The survey was conducted in January 2025 through an external survey provider with a sample size of 3,005 respondents – NFL fans based in the United States representative of the US adult population
All research conducted adhered to the MRS Codes of Conduct and ICC/ESOMAR World Research Guidelines

Ravens Kicker Facing Inappropriate Behavior Allegations

By

Natalie Symonowicz

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January 31, 2025

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The Baltimore Banner has reported that Ravens kicker Justin Tucker is facing multiple allegations of inappropriate behavior during massage therapy sessions. The allegations, made by six massage therapists, suggest that the incidents took place between 2012 and 2016 while Tucker was in Baltimore. The accusations involve Tucker allegedly exposing his genitals, brushing them against two of the therapists, and leaving what was described as ejaculation on massage tables after treatments. His behavior was reportedly so egregious that several sessions were abruptly ended, and he was even banned from two spas in the Baltimore area.

Photo Cred: Mark Konezny/USA TODAY Sports

Tucker’s legal team, including attorneys Thomas A. Clare and Steven J. Harrison, has denied the allegations, calling them “impossible to prove.” Tucker also addressed the claims directly, posting on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “I have never received any complaints from a massage therapist, have never been dismissed from a massage therapy or bodywork session, and have never been told that I was not welcome at any spa or other place of business… I have always made a conscious effort to be considerate and respectful in all of the interactions with the community that I love so much. It is devastating for me to learn that anyone would feel I was offensive in any way.”

The NFL also weighed in, with a spokesperson stating, “We take any allegation seriously and will look into the matter.”

Tucker, who joined the Ravens as an undrafted free agent from the University of Texas in 2012, has since become one of the most decorated kickers in NFL history, earning seven Pro Bowl selections and winning a Super Bowl with the Ravens in 2012. Will Outcome be Similar to Deshaun Watson’s?

The Deshaun Watson Connection

This situation raises comparisons to the case of former Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson, who faced allegations of sexual misconduct and inappropriate behavior during massage therapy sessions in 2021. The accusations against Watson were similar, involving multiple women who claimed he had acted inappropriately during their sessions. Watson was cleared of criminal charges by a grand jury, but he was fined $5 million by the NFL, suspended for 11 games, and required to attend therapy and counseling as part of a settlement agreement.

His case attracted significant media attention, with Watson facing backlash from the public and criticism over his off-field behavior. Given the similarities between the two cases, many are questioning whether Tucker will face consequences similar to those experienced by Watson. Will he face an NFL suspension? Will the massage therapists who came forward face heavy criticism or even threats, as some of Watson’s accusers did? As the investigation continues, these questions remain unanswered, but the situation serves as a stark reminder of the potential fallout for athletes accused of misconduct.

Concussions Decrease to Historic Low in 2024 NFL Season

By

Stephen Patrick

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January 31, 2025

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When-Does-the-NFL-Season-Start-First-NFL-Game-To-Be-Played-in-September-1-696x464 — Photo Cred: Pro Football Network

NEW YORK – Jan. 30, 2025 – The National Football League announced today injury data for the 2024 season, which revealed a significant decrease in concussions. Key results include:

Decrease in concussions to a historic low,[1] including a 17% reduction compared to the 2023 season, including all practices and games in both the preseason and regular season.
Largest safety improvement in helmets worn on field since 2021.
Continued reduction in lower extremity strains for the 2024 season.

Significant decrease in concussions

Concussions decreased 17% compared to last season and 12% compared to the 2021-2023 season average. This decrease builds on a record preseason, which had the fewest number of concussions in practices and games since 2015 and comes as the league continues to aggressively identify and evaluate concussions (doctors continue to evaluate 3-4 players for every concussion diagnosis). Other important factors in this season’s reduction include the largest safety improvement in helmets worn on field since 2021, enforcement of safety rules and broader efforts to continue fostering a culture of safety.

“Today is an important milestone but not the end of our work,” said Jeff Miller, NFL executive vice president overseeing player health and safety. “Through improved equipment, rules modifications and a continued culture change, we will make the game safer and more exciting.”

Dynamic Kickoff

The new Dynamic Kickoff rule worked as intended. Returns increased 57% in the regular season and there were 7 kickoffs returned for touchdowns, the most since 2021. The new rule slowed the average player speeds, as intended, which led to a lower concussion rate (down 43% vs. 2021-2023 average) and the fewest lower extremity strains on the play since at least 2018. This is among the data that will be shared with the Competition Committee as the Dynamic Kickoff is revisited this offseason following the one-year rule change.

“This season’s injury data underscores real progress in our efforts to reduce concussions and lower-extremity strains, key areas of focus for the league’s injury reduction strategy,” said Dr. Allen Sills, NFL chief medical officer. “We’re glad to see continued focus on these injuries pay off, and as always, will be using this injury data to inform and further strengthen our injury prevention and reduction approach during the offseason.”

Continued progress on reducing lower-extremity injuries

Lower extremity injuries continue to cause the greatest time lost for players. Efforts to reduce those injuries through a training camp acclimation period as well as the utilization of tools like the Digital Athlete, which helps clubs identify player efforts and therefore injury, have been successful during the past two seasons. This year continued the trend with a reduction in time-loss lower extremity (LEX) strains for the 2024 preseason and regular season. Time-loss lower-extremity strains were down 14% compared to 2021 – the last season before the acclimation ramp-up period was introduced.

The Dynamic Kickoff rule also contributed to the lower extremity injury savings. Shorter distances and fewer high-speed efforts reduced the incidence of lower extremity strains by 48% on that play alone.

Looking ahead

During this offseason, health and safety priorities will include further analyzing the Dynamic Kickoff, reviewing the first year of the hip-drop tackle ban, and continuing to limit avoidable head contact and further reduce concussions.

Media Contact: Stef Goodsell, Stef.Goodsell@nfl.com

Since 2015, when the NFL transitioned to using a league-wide EMR for injury surveillance

For more from NFL Communications, visit media.nfl.com

NFL Network’s Exclusive Coverage of Collegiate All-Star Games

By

Stephen Patrick

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January 27, 2025

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fcs-players-in-all-star-games — Photo Cred: NFLPA

INGLEWOOD, Calif. — Jan. 27, 2025 — NFL Network provides exclusive coverage of collegiate all-star games, beginning with the 100th edition of the East-West Shrine Bowl on Thursday, Jan. 30 at 8 p.m. ET, and continuing with the 2025 Reese’s Senior Bowl on Saturday, Feb. 1 at 2:30 p.m. ET and the HBCU Legacy Bowl on Saturday, Feb. 22 at 4 p.m. ET.

For the East-West Shrine Bowl live from AT&T Stadium, play-by-play announcer Mike Yam is joined in the broadcast booth by analysts Bucky Brooks and Isaiah Stanback, while Jane Slater provides reports from the field. Leading up to the East-West Shrine Bowl, ‘NFL GameDay Kickoff’ airs at 7 p.m. ET with Patrick Claybon.

For the Reese’s Senior Bowl live from Hancock Whitney Stadium, play-by-play announcer Rhett Lewis is joined in the broadcast booth by analysts Daniel Jeremiah and Charles Davis, while Tom Pelissero provides reports from the sidelines. Leading up to the Reese’s Senior Bowl, ‘NFL GameDay Kickoff’ airs at 2 p.m. ET with Mike Yam and David Carr. Following the game, ‘NFL GameDay Final’ airs at 5:30 p.m. ET with Yam and Carr.

Leading up to the Reese’s Senior Bowl, one-hour “2025 Senior Bowl Practice” recap shows air Tuesday, Jan. 28 and Wednesday, Jan. 29 at 8 p.m. ET, and Thursday, Jan. 30 at 11 p.m. ET on NFL Network with Pelissero, Lewis, Jeremiah and Davis. Additionally, “The Insiders” will broadcast live from Mobile, Ala. Monday, Jan. 27 through Wednesday, Jan. 29 at 7 p.m. ET with Pelissero, Mike Garafolo and Ian Rapoport.

For the HBCU Legacy Bowl live from Yulman Stadium, play-by-play announcer Steve Wyche is joined in the broadcast booth by analysts Bucky Brooks and Charles Davis, while Mike Yam reports from the sidelines.

All NFL Network programming is available across multiple devices (smartphone, PC, tablet and connected TVs) across NFL+, the NFL Channel, NFL.com, the NFL App and YouTube. Visit NFL.com/watch for more information on how to watch.

For additional information on all the collegiate all-star games, please visit:

· East-West Shrine Bowl: https://shrinebowl.com/

· Reese’s Senior Bowl: https://www.seniorbowl.com/

· HBCU Legacy Bowl: https://www.hbculegacybowl.com/

NFL Network’s broadcast schedule for the collegiate all-star games:

· Thursday, Jan. 30 at 8 p.m. ET – East-West Shrine Bowl

· Saturday, Feb. 1 at 2:30 p.m. ET – Reese’s Senior Bowl

· Saturday, Feb. 22 at 4 p.m. ET – HBCU Legacy Bowl

###

Media Contact: Jaden Hall, Jaden.Hall@NFL.com

For more from NFL Communications, visit media.nfl.com

Jim Knowles Shocks Big Ten, Leaves Ohio State for Penn State

By

Nathan Boggs

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January 27, 2025

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5rMmMrUCmgxRNYKnF4qTuCa7gvSHBVP6VftBvDaR (1) — Photo Cred: Penn State

In a shocking turn of events, Jim Knowles, Ohio State’s Defensive Coordinator, has accepted the same position at Big Ten rival Penn State. The Pennsylvania native, who has been at Ohio State for the past three seasons, leaves after helping craft one of the best defenses in school history. Knowles’ defensive units have shown marked improvement throughout his career.

Ohio State football is battling other schools to retain Jim Knowles - cleveland.com

Photo Cred: Cleveland

Before joining Ohio State, he served as the Defensive Coordinator at Oklahoma State for four seasons. In his final year there, Oklahoma State boasted a top ten defense nationally, leading the country in sacks, which ultimately led to his hiring by Ohio State. At the time, the Buckeyes’ defense ranked outside the top 35. In his first season with Ohio State, Knowles made an immediate impact, turning the defense into the 24th-best unit in the country. By the 2023 season, Ohio State’s defense ranked 2nd nationally in scoring, and in 2024, they finished as the No. 1 defense in the nation.

That year, they also claimed the first-ever College Football Playoff National Championship. Over a four-game stretch in the playoffs, the Buckeyes’ defense dominated: they recorded 18 sacks, 35 tackles for loss, and allowed just over 18 points per game against the 7th, 1st, 3rd, and 5th-ranked teams in the country. Remarkably, Ohio State trailed for only 6 minutes of game time during this stretch. Knowles’ success has made him one of the most sought-after defensive minds in college football.

Despite already being a top-ten paid assistant coach, Ohio State was willing to make him the highest-paid coordinator in the country in hopes of keeping him after his contract expired following the 2024 season. But with eight defensive starters, including the entire defensive line, set to leave for the NFL, Knowles’ departure became inevitable. Penn State, on the other hand, returns several key players and sees Knowles as a major upgrade.

His track record, which includes guiding Ohio State to a National Championship, makes him an ideal fit for a program that reached the College Football Playoff quarterfinals for the first time last season. Under the terms of his new contract, Knowles will earn an average of $3.1 million per year, making him the highest-paid defensive coordinator in college football. Now, Ohio State finds itself searching for a new defensive coordinator, with the challenge of replacing eight starters.

Report: Ohio State Asked Jim Knowles Not to Attend CFP Celebration amid PSU DC Talks | News, Scores, Highlights, Stats, and Rumors | Bleacher Report

Photo Cred: USA Today

While the Buckeyes have a wealth of talent ready to step into starting roles, the timing is not ideal, as Ohio State’s season just ended while other programs have already been making changes. Additionally, rumors have surfaced that Offensive Coordinator Chip Kelly may be considering an NFL job. If both coordinators depart, Ohio State will have a lot of work ahead as they look to repeat as National Champions next season.

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